For a large population, degrees are a means to getting one step closer to our career goals. However, with changing times and situations, some degrees may be less helpful now than they used to be before.
We looked at many educational websites and public discussion forums to find degrees people repeatedly call irrelevant. These degrees may have played an important role in the past, but they will become less relevant in the future.
Advertising
While advertising principles are valuable, the industry is rapidly changing. Traditional media, like print ads, are declining. You might need to learn more about digital advertising, data analysis, or content creation. Therefore, a traditional advertising degree will be a waste of time after 2024.
Liberal Arts
This degree is often criticized for being too broad. It provides a strong foundation in various subjects but might not equip you with skills employers seek. You will struggle a lot to find a high-paying job with this degree alone.
Thus, consider double majoring or minoring in a more focused field. Data science, computer science, or communication can make your resume stand out.
Anthropology
Anthropology is fascinating, but the job market can be competitive. Many anthropology graduates end up in research or academia, which requires further education (master’s or Ph.D.). If you’re passionate about research, consider this path. Otherwise, anthropology can be combined with practical skills like data analysis or GIS (Geographic Information Systems) to broaden your career options.
Archaeology
Similar to anthropology, archaeology is a niche field. Fieldwork opportunities can be limited, and many jobs require postgraduate degrees. Archaeology skills can be valuable in museum curation, heritage management, or environmental impact assessments. Yet there are few hirings happening each year.
Instead, consider combining archaeology with project management or geographic skills for a more versatile skill set. In subjects like archaeology, a person’s years of experience are of great importance. Thus, the pay is not attractive for interns and freshers.
International Studies
International studies provide valuable knowledge of global affairs, but it’s a competitive market. Based on your geographical location, you might face issues like work visa restrictions and culture shock.
Most jobs require fluency in multiple languages or regional expertise. Rather, you can consider double majoring in a language, business, or a specific region (e.g., Latin America, Asia) to enhance your career prospects.
Film Studies
While film studies teach you a lot about movies, they might not directly prepare you for filmmaking jobs. Most programs focus on theory and film history. Those are important but they don’t offer enough training in practical skills.
For example, in a basic course, they may not teach you directing, editing, or screenwriting. Consider film programs with strong production components. Otherwise, you can also learn a lot from filmmaking workshops.
Art History
Art history is a great way to learn about art and culture, but the job market can be tough. Museum and gallery jobs are tough to get. Most will ask for a master’s degree or previous experience. However, the knowledge could be valuable in other cases as well like art appraisal, art education, or auction houses. If you’ve already enrolled in this course, consider double majoring in business or marketing to boost your career options.
Communications
A communications degree is broad and can be useful in various fields like public relations, marketing, or journalism. However, the competition can be high. Therefore, this degree alone can be quite irrelevant. Instead, focus on developing strong writing, communication, and critical thinking skills. Doing internships is crucial to gaining practical experience and building your network.
Mortgage Lending
The mortgage industry is changing rapidly with online applications. Things are getting automated, which is making things easier and error-free. This could decrease the demand for traditional loan officers. However, a BBA in mortgage lending could be valuable if you specialize in complex loans and focus on building relationships with clients. Consider combining this degree with a strong background in finance or sales.
Education
Education is a broad degree that doesn’t provide a strong foundation. Having a specialized degree in a subject can be more beneficial if you want to pursue a career as a teacher.
You can study high-demand subjects like STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) to improve your job prospects. While teachers are always needed, the demand can fluctuate depending on location and subject. So, before taking up this degree, research the demand for teachers in your desired location.
Fashion Designing
The fashion industry is highly competitive. Success often relies on talent, connections, and business acumen. If you already have a knack for design, this degree can help you master the basics.
However, a design degree might not prepare you for the business side of fashion. For example, production, marketing, or retail aren’t taught in a fashion design course. So go for programs that incorporate business courses. Otherwise, pursue a double major in business or marketing.
Ethnic & Civilization Studies
Similar to anthropology and international studies, this is a fascinating field but can have a limited job market. Jobs might be in research, academia, or cultural institutions and often require further education (a Master’s or Ph.D.). Getting a job with this degree alone is very tough, so consider combining it with practical skills like data analysis and translation.
Languages
Language fluency is valuable, but job prospects can depend on the specific language and your career goals. Translation jobs can be competitive. Plus, with technological advancements, people may soon stop relying on human translators.
So, consider double majoring in business, international relations, or computer science. This will make your language skills even more marketable.
Music
According to music expert and ex-Billboard reporter Tatiano Cirisano, the music industry is currently oversaturated. Many top artists began their careers as kids, while others are naturally talented, like standout rappers or singers. Also, performing can be uncertain, and teaching music usually requires extra certifications.
If you’re aiming for a music career, consider specializing in music production, music technology, or music therapy. These fields are more accessible and offer a wider range of job opportunities.