Thinking about college? Choosing the right degree is more important than ever, especially as job markets shift quickly. A 2025 NACE report shows only 54% of grads in fields like liberal arts and humanities found full-time jobs within six months, down from 66% just five years ago.
Here are 12 degrees that are losing value quickly, and why you might want to rethink your career path before it’s too late.
Film and media studies
Film and media studies, once a top choice for aspiring filmmakers, is now struggling to keep up with the rise of digital content creators. Streaming platforms like YouTube and TikTok have redefined the industry, leading to a decline in traditional media jobs.
Film and video editor jobs are projected to grow just 3% from 2024 to 2034, while roles in social media and digital marketing are expected to increase by over 10%. If you’re passionate about media, digital marketing, or social media, you could find more job opportunities.
Communications
Communication skills are essential, but a general communications degree isn’t as valuable as it once was. With the rise of digital marketing and social media strategies, many traditional communication roles are vanishing.
To stand out, consider specializing in pr, marketing communications, or content writing. It’s all about the digital world now.
Theology and religious studies
A degree in theology can be personally fulfilling, but career prospects are slim outside religious institutions. This degree doesn’t offer many job opportunities in the broader workforce.
Consider pairing it with a more marketable field, such as nonprofit management or counseling, to improve career growth. The job market is limited for those with theology-only degrees.
Art history
While an art history degree can be rewarding, job opportunities are limited today. Traditional roles like museum curators and art appraisers are in decline, while digital art and design are on the rise.
If you love art, explore fields like graphic design or digital archiving, which are more in demand. The art world has shifted, and so should your career path.
Education (non-specialized)
A general education degree may not cut it anymore. Specialized teaching roles in STEM or special education are in demand, but generic teaching degrees carry less weight.
If you’re passionate about teaching, consider specializing in a subject like math or science to improve your job prospects. The more focused your skill set is, the better your chances.
Anthropology
Anthropology once opened doors to research and fieldwork, but the job market has shrunk. Many traditional anthropology jobs have been replaced by more tech-driven roles in data analysis and market research.
If you’re passionate about human culture, consider museum studies or cultural resource management for a better career fit. Anthropology needs an update to stay relevant in today’s market.
Fashion design
The fashion industry is changing fast, and a degree in fashion design is no longer a guarantee for success. Fast fashion and digital design have overtaken traditional design roles, and competition is fierce.
To thrive, consider sustainable fashion or fashion technology, both of which are growing. The industry is shifting, and so should your approach.
Philosophy
A philosophy degree hones critical thinking, but it can be challenging to translate that into a direct career path. About 77% of philosophy graduates are employed or pursuing further education within six months of graduation, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers.
Many graduates end up in diverse roles outside traditional philosophy tracks. To make the degree more marketable, consider combining philosophy with ethics, law, or policy analysis for stronger job prospects.
Music
Studying music used to guarantee a career in performance or teaching, but with digital music production and streaming services taking over, traditional music jobs are dwindling.
Music production and sound engineering offer better job prospects. If you love music, focus on digital skills that can lead to a steady career. Traditional music degrees need a modern twist.
Sociology
Sociology is a fascinating field, but the job market for general sociologists has been shrinking. Many graduates end up in roles that don’t require a degree.
To stay competitive, consider social work or hr, where sociology skills are more valuable. Sociology needs to adapt to current job-market needs.
Hospitality management
Once a thriving field, hospitality management has been hit hard by automation and the growth of online booking platforms. Traditional roles are being replaced by technology, and competition is fierce.
If you’re passionate about the industry, consider event planning or tourism management to expand your opportunities. The industry is changing, and you should too.
Journalism
The rise of digital media and content creation has disrupted the traditional journalism field. Fewer conventional journalism jobs are available, and many journalists are now turning to freelancing or online platforms.
For a more sustainable career, consider content marketing or seo copywriting. Journalism needs to evolve to stay relevant.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
Disclosure: This article was developed with the assistance of AI and was subsequently reviewed, revised, and approved by our editorial team.
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