Was That Wise? “Useless” College Degrees and Majors

Fine arts

Cannon to the right of them, cannon to the left of them.

The fine arts encompasses a variety of studies that can range from painting to poetry and dance. The main goal is to study classic art forms that focus on the aesthetic. While most people will focus on a concentration, a fine arts degree as a whole is one that may be too broad for comfort.

Archaeology

Sorry Indiana Jones fans, they just aren’t excavating sites around the world like they did back in the day. Not only does the field of archaeology currently carry a double digit unemployment rate (estimated to be around 10 percent), the average salary might be a wee tight for some to work with (most start under $30,000).

Liberal arts

Ah, we now come to another broad degree. When liberal arts comes to mind, some people may think of a liberal arts school. Sure this is true but you can also study liberal arts as well that may focus on different humanities and social sciences. Again, you may find difficulty landing a job with this type of degree, but some may choose to further their education in a more concentrated field of study.

Horticulture

It’s a crying shame that the study of crops and plants is becoming more scarce. Could it be that we as a country rely way too much on genetically enhanced or processed foods, instead of raising organic edibles? While that is another discussion in and of itself, employment opportunities in the area of horticulture continue to diminish.

Philosophy

To get a degree in philosophy, or not? That is the question? It looks like the study of reason and values may become non-existent for modern times. Dare we say philosophers are a dying breed?

English

When you think of English as a major or degree, some may question why bother with one in the first place. “You already speak the language.” Though this offers a chuckle or two, this may not be the main reason why it has become a degree with declining benefits. In thinking of the grander scheme, having an English degree paired with a graduate degree can open doors. But a bachelor’s by itself may prove to be a little difficult when looking for a job.

Music

Think you are the next American Idol? You, my dear, do not need a degree to prove it.

The concept of music has truly evolved throughout the centuries, whether for the good or bad (depending on your taste). With more schools cutting specialty programs like the arts from the curriculum, the chance of finding opportunities to utilize your degree may be much slimmer than you think.

Journalism

The journalism profession as a whole has been ever changing over the years. Gone are the days when you need a four-year journalism degree to land a job in the field as many bloggers and self-proclaimed experts are making their own way. Even top publications are letting their hair down by collaborating with “amateurs” who demonstrate creativity and originality. On-the-job training can take the place of formal training if you’re really seeking a journalism career.

Drama/theater

Nowadays, landing a job in the dramatic arts is all about timing and chance. You definitely do not always need a degree in the dramatic arts as there are acting classes at non-accredited schools that can teach you what you need (this could save you some money). In fact, many of the actors on television, Broadway and film today did not graduate with a theater major and are doing just fine.