Enhancing the attractiveness and brand competitiveness of top undergraduate programs at local universities is crucially dependent on the precise positioning of the majors offered and the fulfillment of stakeholder needs. This paper delves into the deeper meaning of “first-class undergraduate specialties” and, integrating concepts from educational ecology, niche theory, and positioning theory, introduces the concept of “Academic Program Ecological Positioning.” It elucidates the principles underlying this concept, providing theoretical support for the effective separation of academic niches, staggered competition, and the precise selection of value propositions. The research identifies prevalent issues in local universities, such as homogenization of talent training programs, lack of differentiation in brand image, unclear growth targets, and vague value positioning. These challenges diminish the innovative and distinctive nature of their programs, reducing their potential to serve as benchmarks in education. Based on the principles of “Academic Program Ecological Positioning,” the study proposes targeted strategies such as market segmentation and differentiated marketing, selection and reshaping of brand image, standards development and leading demand, as well as gap positioning and value creation. These strategies point to directions for improvement in the construction of top undergraduate programs at local universities.