Most Useless College Majors How to Avoid Choosing a Useless Major Table 1: Most Useless Majors by Median Annual Salary Table 2: Most Useless Majors by Job Growth Outlook Table 3: Most Useless Majors by Employment Options Table 4: Most Useless Majors by Earning Potential Conclusion

When choosing a college major, it’s crucial to consider its potential career prospects. While some majors provide a solid foundation for rewarding careers, others may not offer the same level of employability or earning potential. Here’s a comprehensive list of the most useless college majors, according to their job market value and earning potential:

Anthropology and Archeology

Median Annual Salary: $60,470
Job Growth Outlook: 4%

While anthropology and archeology can be fascinating areas of study, they often result in limited career options. Graduates may find themselves working in museum education, archaeology consulting, or cultural resource management, with salaries typically falling below the national average.

Art History

Median Annual Salary: $62,530
Job Growth Outlook: 9%

An art history degree provides a strong foundation in the history, appreciation, and criticism of art. However, it offers limited career options outside of academia, art museums, or cultural institutions. Graduates may struggle to secure high-paying positions in these competitive fields.

Comparative Literature

Median Annual Salary: $51,760
Job Growth Outlook: 7%

Comparative literature is a combination of language, literature, and cultural studies. While it fosters critical thinking and analytical skills, it offers a narrow range of career options. Graduates may find opportunities in academia, publishing, or translation, but job prospects can be limited.

Ethnic and Cultural Studies

Median Annual Salary: $53,320
Job Growth Outlook: 18%

Ethnic and cultural studies explore different cultures, histories, and social movements. Graduates often pursue careers in education, social work, or non-profit organizations. However, these fields may be competitive and offer lower salaries compared to other majors.

Film and Video Studies

Median Annual Salary: $52,020
Job Growth Outlook: 12%

The film and video industry can be highly competitive, and graduates with film and video studies degrees may face challenges finding stable and well-paying jobs. Career options include film production, editing, or teaching, but the median salary for this field falls below the national average.

Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies

Median Annual Salary: $58,830
Job Growth Outlook: 15%

Gender, women, and sexuality studies examine gender identity, sexual orientation, and feminist theory. While this field is gaining traction in academia and social justice organizations, graduates may face limited career options and lower earning potential compared to other majors.

Interdisciplinary Studies

Median Annual Salary: $49,960
Job Growth Outlook: 10%

Interdisciplinary studies combine multiple fields of study, providing a broad but shallow foundation in various subjects. Graduates may struggle to find specialized jobs that align with their diverse coursework, and career options can be limited.

Leisure and Recreational Studies

Median Annual Salary: $55,970
Job Growth Outlook: 11%

Leisure and recreational studies focus on the leisure industry, including tourism, hospitality, and recreation. While this field offers job opportunities in event planning, park management, or recreation therapy, the median salary is lower than many other majors.

Library Science

Median Annual Salary: $62,240
Job Growth Outlook: 2%

The digitization of information and the rise of online resources have reduced the demand for traditional librarians. Graduates with library science degrees may find employment in libraries, archives, or information services, but job growth is expected to be slow.

Philosophy

Median Annual Salary: $51,720
Job Growth Outlook: 6%

Philosophy majors develop strong critical thinking and analytical skills, but the career options for graduates are often limited. They may work as teachers, researchers, or in non-profit organizations, but the earning potential typically remains below average.

1. Research Career Prospects: Before selecting a major, thoroughly research the potential career options, job market demand, and earning potential for graduates. Use resources such as the Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH) published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

2. Identify Transferable Skills: Consider the transferable skills you will gain from your major, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork. These skills are valuable in a wide range of industries and can help you adapt to changing job markets.

3. Explore Interdisciplinary Options: If you are interested in multiple fields, consider interdisciplinary majors or minors that combine two or more disciplines. This can provide you with a broader skillset and make you more competitive in the job market.

4. Seek Career Counseling: Utilize campus career services to explore different majors, develop career goals, and navigate the job search process. Career counselors can provide valuable guidance and help you choose a major that aligns with your interests and aspirations.

5. Network and Gain Experience: Attend industry events, connect with professionals on LinkedIn, and seek internships or volunteer opportunities to gain real-world experience and build your network. This can help you make informed decisions about your future career path and explore different industries.

Selecting a college major is a significant decision that can impact your future career prospects. While some majors offer a strong foundation for fulfilling and well-paying careers, others may not provide the same level of employability or earning potential. By carefully considering the information presented here, you can make an informed decision and choose a major that aligns with your interests and career aspirations.

Remember, it’s not just about the major you choose, but also about the skills you develop and the experiences you gain during your time in college. Seek out opportunities to expand your knowledge, develop practical skills, and build your network. With hard work and dedication, you can succeed in any field you choose.