The “worst” college majors typically refer to those with the lowest return on investment, poor job prospects, high unemployment rates, or limited career growth—not that they’re inherently bad or unworthy.
That said, based on employment data, starting salaries, and job market trends, here are 10 majors that are often cited as having weak outcomes for graduates. Not to say that yo u
- Anthropology
- Low median income
- High underemployment rate
- Few jobs specifically requiring this degree
- Fine Arts
- Creative fulfillment vs. low income
- Highly competitive, unstable job market
- Film/Photography
- Limited job openings
- Freelance-heavy, low starting salaries
- Philosophy
- Valuable for critical thinking but few direct career paths
- Often requires grad school for higher earnings
- Music
- Many musicians are self-employed or part-time
- Income instability is common
- Religious Studies/Theology
- Narrow career applicability outside clergy/academia
- Low average earnings
- Culinary Arts
- Physically demanding work, long hours, low pay
- High turnover in the industry
- Education (Early Childhood)
- Important societal role but very low pay
- High emotional demands and limited upward mobility
- Graphic Design
- Oversaturated market
- Companies often want experience + portfolio, not just a degree
- Psychology (Bachelor’s only)
- Popular major but limited job prospects without further study
- Most good-paying roles require a master’s or PhD
These outcomes can vary widely depending on:
- Your school
- Internship experience
- Geographic location
- Networking
- Supplementary skills (e.g. coding, writing, communication)
Our list of Top 10 Blue Collar Jobs is here, where money can be made.
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