20 Worst College Majors for Your Career

A pile of textbooks and papers scattered on a desk, with a frustrated student staring at a computer screen showing job listings for "worst" college majors

Choosing a college major is a pivotal decision that can significantly impact one’s future career prospects and earning potential.

While many fields of study offer promising opportunities, some majors may present more challenges in terms of job market demand, salary expectations, and long-term growth.

This article examines 20 college majors that experts consider less advantageous for career development.

The rankings take into account factors such as employment rates, median salaries, and projected job growth.

By exploring these potentially risky academic paths, students can make more informed choices about their educational and professional futures.

1. Art History

A stack of art history textbooks surrounded by job rejection letters and a graduation cap collecting dust

Art History graduates often face challenging career prospects. Many find limited job opportunities directly related to their field of study. Museums and galleries, while potential employers, offer few positions and intense competition.

The median salary for Art History majors tends to be lower compared to other disciplines. Graduates may struggle to find well-paying jobs that utilize their specific knowledge and skills.

Art History degrees can lead to careers in education, curation, or art conservation. However, these roles often require additional education or specialized training beyond a bachelor’s degree.

Some Art History graduates pivot to fields like marketing, public relations, or journalism. These career paths may offer more job openings but may not fully utilize their art-specific education.

The job market for Art History majors can be unpredictable and heavily influenced by economic factors. This uncertainty can make long-term career planning difficult for graduates in this field.

2. Anthropology

A stack of textbooks labeled "Anthropology 20" sits on a desk, surrounded by crumpled papers and a discouraged student's empty coffee cup

Anthropology, the study of human cultures and societies, presents challenges for graduates seeking lucrative career paths. Job opportunities in this field are often limited and highly competitive.

Many anthropology majors struggle to find positions directly related to their degree. Those who do secure jobs in the field frequently face low salaries compared to other professions.

Anthropologists often need advanced degrees to qualify for research positions or academic roles. This additional education increases student debt without guaranteeing improved job prospects.

The skills gained through anthropology studies, such as critical thinking and cultural awareness, can be valuable in various industries. However, graduates may need to pursue careers in unrelated fields to find stable employment.

3. Philosophy

A stack of books labeled "Philosophy" surrounded by a crossed-out list of "20 Worst College Majors" on a crumpled piece of paper

Philosophy majors study fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, and ethics. While intellectually stimulating, this field often presents challenges in the job market.

Many philosophy graduates struggle to find directly related career opportunities. The abstract nature of philosophical training can make it difficult to translate skills into practical workplace applications.

Employment prospects for philosophy majors tend to be limited. Those who do find work often earn lower starting salaries compared to graduates in more specialized fields.

Philosophy degrees may require additional education or certifications to increase employability. Graduates frequently pursue advanced degrees or alternative career paths to improve their job prospects.

Critical thinking and analytical skills gained from philosophy studies can be valuable. However, employers often prefer candidates with more directly applicable knowledge and experience in specific industries.

4. Religious Studies

A stack of textbooks with titles like "Religious Studies 20 Worst College Majors for Your Career" surrounded by crumpled papers and a frustrated student

Religious Studies majors explore various faiths, beliefs, and spiritual practices from around the world. Students examine religious texts, traditions, and philosophies to gain a deeper understanding of different cultures and their spiritual foundations.

While this field offers valuable insights into human beliefs and behaviors, job prospects can be limited. Many graduates find work in religious organizations, non-profits, or educational institutions.

Career paths may include roles as religious educators, chaplains, or social workers. Some pursue advanced degrees to become professors or researchers in the field.

The median salary for Religious Studies graduates tends to be lower compared to other majors. Job growth in this field is also relatively slow, with limited opportunities for advancement.

Graduates may need to be flexible and consider alternative career paths to maximize their employment options. Developing additional skills in areas like counseling or administration can enhance job prospects.

5. Music Performance

A stage with instruments, empty seats, and a spotlight

Music Performance majors face significant challenges in the job market. The field is highly competitive, with limited full-time positions available for performers.

Many graduates find themselves working part-time or taking on multiple gigs to make ends meet. The unpredictable nature of performance work can lead to financial instability.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that musicians and singers earn a median hourly wage of $30.49. However, this figure can be misleading due to the sporadic nature of employment in this field.

Job growth for musicians and singers is projected at 4% from 2021 to 2031, slower than the average for all occupations. This limited growth further intensifies competition for available positions.

Graduates often need to supplement their income with non-music-related jobs or pursue additional education to increase their employability. Teaching and arts administration are common alternative career paths for Music Performance majors.

6. English Literature

A stack of books labeled "English Literature" sits next to a list of "20 Worst College Majors for Your Career."

English Literature degrees focus on analyzing literary works, writing, and critical thinking. Graduates often face challenges in the job market due to limited career-specific skills.

Many English Literature majors find themselves competing for positions in publishing, journalism, or education. These fields are highly competitive and often require additional qualifications or experience.

The median salary for English Literature graduates is lower compared to other fields. Job prospects can be limited, with some graduates taking positions unrelated to their major.

While the degree develops valuable communication and analytical skills, employers may prioritize candidates with more specialized or technical backgrounds. English Literature majors may need to pursue additional certifications or advanced degrees to enhance their employability.

7. Fine Arts

A pile of discarded art supplies and textbooks, with a diploma crumpled on the floor. A dejected figure sits in front of a blank canvas, staring at it with frustration

Fine Arts majors study various forms of creative expression, including painting, sculpture, and drawing. While this field offers opportunities for artistic growth, it often presents challenges in the job market.

Graduates may struggle to find stable employment directly related to their degree. Many fine arts positions are competitive and limited in number, leading to potential underemployment.

The median annual wage for fine artists is lower than average, with many working part-time or holding multiple jobs to make ends meet. Self-employment is common, but it can be financially unstable.

Fine Arts majors may need to pursue additional education or certifications to increase their marketability. Some find success in related fields like graphic design, art therapy, or education, but these often require further training.

8. Theater Arts

A pile of discarded theater scripts and props, overshadowed by a "Worst College Majors" list. The dimly lit stage is empty, symbolizing the lack of career prospects in Theater Arts

Theater Arts majors pursue their passion for performance and storytelling. They study acting, directing, stagecraft, and dramatic literature. Students develop skills in creative expression, public speaking, and collaboration.

Employment prospects for Theater Arts graduates can be challenging. The job market is highly competitive, with limited full-time positions available. Many graduates find themselves working in part-time or freelance roles.

Salaries in the theater industry vary widely. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, actors earned a median hourly wage of $21.88 in 2020. Technical theater positions often offer more stable income, but competition remains fierce.

Theater Arts graduates may need to supplement their income with non-theater jobs. Some find work in related fields like education, entertainment, or event planning. Others pursue careers in advertising, public relations, or sales, leveraging their communication skills.

9. Dance

A pile of discarded textbooks and graduation caps, with a broken calculator and a sad-looking diploma, surrounded by wilted flowers and deflated balloons

Dance majors face significant challenges in the job market. Employment opportunities for dancers and choreographers are limited, with fierce competition for available positions.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median annual wage of $41,950 for dancers and choreographers as of May 2021. This figure is lower than the median for all occupations.

Many dance graduates struggle to find full-time, stable employment in their field. They often need to supplement their income with part-time jobs or work in unrelated industries.

The physical demands of dance can lead to a short career span. Injuries and age-related factors may force dancers to retire earlier than professionals in other fields.

Dance majors may need to pursue additional education or certifications to broaden their career options. Some transition into teaching, arts administration, or physical therapy to maintain a connection to their passion.

10. Sociology

A graph showing the top 20 worst college majors for career prospects, with sociology at the top

Sociology majors study human behavior and social interactions within societies. While this field offers valuable insights, it often faces challenges in the job market.

Graduates may find limited career opportunities directly related to their degree. Many sociology jobs require advanced degrees, increasing the time and cost of education.

Entry-level positions in social services or research often come with lower salaries compared to other fields. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median annual wage of $50,390 for sociologists.

Job growth for sociologists is projected at 5% from 2022 to 2032, which is slower than average. This limited growth may lead to increased competition for available positions.

Sociology graduates often need to develop additional skills to enhance their employability. They may need to pursue internships or gain practical experience to stand out in the job market.

11. Film Studies

A stack of textbooks and a graduation cap lie abandoned on a desk, while a poster of classic film stills peels off the wall

Film Studies majors explore the history, theory, and production of cinema and visual media. Students analyze films, learn about different genres, and study cinematography techniques.

Despite its appeal, this major faces challenges in the job market. Employment opportunities directly related to film studies can be limited and highly competitive.

Graduates may find work as film critics, archivists, or in production roles. However, these positions often require additional skills or experience beyond the degree.

The median annual wage for film and video editors was $62,680 in 2020. Yet, entry-level positions may offer lower salaries, and job stability can be unpredictable in the film industry.

Film Studies graduates might need to pursue additional education or seek work in related fields to enhance their career prospects. Adaptability and networking skills are crucial for success in this field.

12. Environmental Studies

A cluttered desk with textbooks on environmental studies, a list of "20 Worst College Majors for Your Career," and a disappointed student looking at their laptop

Environmental Studies graduates face challenges in the job market. The field’s broad nature can make it difficult to find specialized roles. Many positions require advanced degrees for career progression.

Entry-level salaries for Environmental Studies majors tend to be lower than average. Graduates often compete with those from more specialized fields like Environmental Science or Engineering.

Job growth in this sector is slower than in many other industries. Budget cuts in government agencies, a major employer for this field, have further limited opportunities.

Some graduates find themselves in roles only tangentially related to their studies. This can lead to job dissatisfaction and the need for additional training or education.

While the field addresses important global issues, the financial returns for individual graduates may not match their expectations or educational investment.

13. Creative Writing

A pile of discarded textbooks and a graduation cap lay abandoned on the floor, while a sign reading "20 Worst College Majors for Your Career" hangs prominently on the wall

Creative writing majors hone their skills in crafting fiction, poetry, and other forms of imaginative writing. While this field nurtures artistic expression, it often faces challenges in the job market.

Graduates may struggle to find stable, well-paying positions directly related to their degree. Many creative writing jobs are freelance or contract-based, leading to income instability.

The publishing industry has undergone significant changes, reducing opportunities for aspiring writers. Competition for available positions is fierce, with many applicants vying for limited openings.

Some creative writing graduates find success in related fields like advertising, marketing, or journalism. However, these roles typically require additional skills beyond creative writing.

Salaries for creative writing graduates can vary widely, with many entry-level positions offering modest compensation. Career advancement often depends on building a strong portfolio and network.

14. Ethnic Studies

A pile of textbooks labeled "Ethnic Studies" surrounded by a stack of papers with "20 Worst College Majors for Your Career" written on them

Ethnic Studies focuses on the experiences, cultures, and histories of diverse racial and ethnic groups. This interdisciplinary field examines social justice, identity, and power dynamics.

Graduates with Ethnic Studies degrees may face challenges in the job market. The specialized nature of the major can limit direct career paths, requiring additional skills or education for many positions.

Employment opportunities often lean towards academia, non-profit organizations, or social services. These sectors typically offer lower starting salaries compared to other fields.

Some graduates find work in education, community organizing, or government agencies. Others pursue careers in journalism, law, or public policy, though additional qualifications are usually necessary.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics does not provide specific data for Ethnic Studies graduates. This lack of targeted information can make career planning more difficult for students in this field.

15. Women’s Studies

A pile of textbooks and articles on gender studies, sociology, and psychology scattered on a desk, with a laptop open to a webpage listing the "20 Worst College Majors for Your Career."

Women’s Studies majors explore gender issues, feminist theory, and the contributions of women throughout history. This interdisciplinary field examines social, political, and cultural aspects of women’s experiences.

Graduates often face challenges in finding directly related career opportunities. The job market for Women’s Studies degree holders can be limited, with positions often concentrated in academia, non-profit organizations, or social services.

Median salaries for Women’s Studies graduates tend to be lower compared to other fields. Many alumni find themselves in roles that don’t specifically require their degree, potentially leading to underemployment.

Some career paths for Women’s Studies majors include social work, counseling, or advocacy roles. However, these positions may require additional certifications or advanced degrees to be competitive in the job market.

16. Classical Studies

A stack of textbooks labeled "Classical Studies 20 Worst College Majors for Your Career" on a desk, surrounded by crumpled papers and a discouraged student's empty coffee cup

Classical Studies focuses on the cultures, languages, and literature of ancient Greece and Rome. Students explore topics like mythology, philosophy, history, and classical languages.

While this major can provide a rich cultural education, its practical applications in the job market are limited. Many graduates find themselves struggling to secure well-paying positions directly related to their field of study.

Career options often revolve around academia, museums, or archaeological sites. These positions are highly competitive and often require advanced degrees. The job market for classicists is relatively small, leading to fierce competition for available roles.

Graduates may need to pursue careers in unrelated fields, such as education, writing, or research. Some find work in publishing, journalism, or cultural institutions, but these roles typically require additional skills beyond classical knowledge.

17. Poetry

A stack of books labeled "Poetry" surrounded by a cloud of question marks, with a graduation cap lying abandoned on the ground

Poetry majors face significant challenges in the job market. Graduates often struggle to find direct employment opportunities related to their field of study. The limited number of positions available for poets and writers makes competition fierce.

Many poetry graduates find themselves working in unrelated fields to make ends meet. Common career paths include teaching, editing, or pursuing jobs in marketing and communications. These roles may not fully utilize their specialized poetry skills.

The financial prospects for poetry majors can be uncertain. Earnings from poetry publications are typically modest, and consistent income from writing alone is rare. Poets often need to supplement their income through other means.

Pursuing advanced degrees or additional certifications may be necessary to improve job prospects. Some poetry graduates transition into academia or literary criticism to build more stable careers around their passion for poetry.

18. Cultural Studies

A pile of discarded textbooks and a graduation cap lie abandoned on the floor, while a chart displaying the 20 worst college majors for career prospects hangs on the wall

Cultural Studies explores how culture shapes society and individual experiences. This interdisciplinary field examines various aspects of human culture, including media, art, and social practices.

Graduates with Cultural Studies degrees often face challenges in the job market. The broad nature of the field can make it difficult to find specific career paths.

Many Cultural Studies majors struggle to secure high-paying positions directly related to their degree. Entry-level salaries tend to be lower compared to other fields.

Job opportunities may be limited, with fierce competition for positions in academia, museums, and cultural institutions. Graduates often need to pursue additional education or specialized training to enhance their employability.

While the degree can provide valuable critical thinking skills, employers may not always recognize its practical applications. Cultural Studies graduates may need to be creative in marketing their abilities to potential employers.

19. Jazz Studies

A stack of textbooks labeled "Jazz Studies" surrounded by crumpled job rejection letters and a sinking job market graph

Jazz Studies majors face limited career prospects after graduation. The field offers few direct job opportunities, with most graduates struggling to find steady employment in music.

Many Jazz Studies graduates work as freelance musicians or music teachers. These roles often provide unstable income and lack benefits like health insurance or retirement plans.

Competition for positions in jazz bands or orchestras is fierce. Only a small percentage of graduates secure full-time performance jobs.

Some Jazz Studies majors transition to related fields like music therapy or arts administration. However, these roles typically require additional education or certifications.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects slow growth for musicians and singers through 2029. This outlook further limits job prospects for Jazz Studies graduates.

20. Linguistics

A pile of textbooks and papers scattered on a desk, with a laptop open to an article titled "Linguistics 20 Worst College Majors for Your Career"

Linguistics, the study of language, can be a challenging major for career prospects. Graduates often face limited job opportunities directly related to their field of study.

Many linguistics majors find themselves pursuing careers in education, teaching English as a second language, or working as translators. These roles may offer lower salaries compared to other professions.

The job market for linguists is competitive, with fewer positions available than in more in-demand fields. This can lead to difficulties in finding stable, well-paying employment after graduation.

While linguistics skills can be valuable in various industries, employers may not always recognize their applicability. This can result in linguistics graduates needing to market themselves creatively to secure positions outside their immediate field.

Impact on Career Prospects

A stack of books labeled with 20 worst college majors, surrounded by broken career symbols and a dark cloud looming overhead

Choosing a college major can significantly influence future job opportunities and earning potential. Certain fields face challenges that limit career growth and stability.

Job Market Saturation

Some majors lead to oversaturated job markets, making it difficult for graduates to secure positions. Liberal arts degrees often face this issue. English and History majors may struggle to find roles directly related to their studies.

Competition for jobs in these fields is fierce. Employers can be more selective, often favoring candidates with advanced degrees or specialized skills.

Graduates might need to pursue additional education or certifications to stand out. Some may settle for positions unrelated to their major, potentially earning less than expected.

Industry Automation

Automation poses a threat to various careers, particularly those involving repetitive tasks. Majors in fields like manufacturing or data entry face increasing challenges.

As technology advances, many jobs become obsolete. Accounting majors, for instance, may find fewer entry-level positions due to automated bookkeeping systems.

Students should consider majors that emphasize critical thinking and creativity. These skills are less likely to be replaced by machines in the near future.

Adapting to technological changes becomes crucial for long-term career success in affected fields.

Economic Trends

Economic shifts can drastically impact the demand for certain professions. Majors closely tied to specific industries may face uncertainty.

For example, petroleum engineering saw high demand during oil booms but experienced downturns during price drops. Graduates faced layoffs and limited job prospects.

Globalization affects job markets too. Some roles may be outsourced to countries with lower labor costs, reducing opportunities for domestic graduates.

Choosing a major with transferable skills can provide more stability. It allows graduates to pivot between industries as economic conditions change.

Alternative Education Paths

A classroom with diverse learning materials, students engaged in hands-on projects, and a sign listing the "20 Worst College Majors for Your Career."

For those seeking alternatives to traditional college majors, several options can lead to fulfilling and lucrative careers. These paths often require less time and financial investment while providing practical skills and experience.

Vocational Training

Vocational schools offer specialized training in specific trades and technical skills. Programs typically last 1-2 years and focus on hands-on learning. Popular fields include:

  • Healthcare (nursing, medical assisting)
  • Construction trades (electrician, plumbing, HVAC)
  • Automotive technology
  • Culinary arts
  • Cosmetology

Graduates often enter the workforce quickly with in-demand skills. Many vocational careers offer competitive salaries and job stability.

Online Certifications

Online certification programs provide flexible, targeted education in various fields. These courses can be completed at one’s own pace and are often more affordable than traditional degrees.

Popular online certifications include:

  • IT and cybersecurity
  • Digital marketing
  • Project management
  • Data analysis
  • Graphic design

Many employers recognize these certifications as valuable credentials. They can enhance job prospects or lead to career advancement.

Entrepreneurship Opportunities

Starting a business can be a rewarding alternative to traditional education paths. Aspiring entrepreneurs can gain knowledge through:

  • Free online resources and tutorials
  • Mentorship programs
  • Local business workshops
  • Startup incubators

Success often depends on factors like market research, networking, and perseverance. While risky, entrepreneurship offers potential for high earnings and personal satisfaction.

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