What Are Some Considered 'Useless' College Majors?

Hey all, I was having a conversation with some friends about 'useless' college majors. Of course, 'useless' is quite subjective, but I'm interested in hearing about other people's experiences or opinions on this. What would you class as a 'useless' major and why?

The term "useless" major can indeed be quite subjective, and it really boils down to what you hope to achieve from your education. Often, the majors labeled as "useless" are associated with a perceived lower earning potential post-graduation or fewer job opportunities in a related field. For example, majors like Philosophy, Art History, Religious Studies, Anthropology, and Theatre are often on the receiving end of this label due to the difficulty some graduates might experience in translating their expertise into a higher-paying job.

However, I would argue that no major is inherently "useless." Selecting a major isn't only about job prospects or earnings - it's also about studying a field that speaks to your passion and interests. For instance, someone who majors in Philosophy might be preparing to study law, where critical thinking skills are necessary. Alternatively, a major in Theatre could lead to a compelling career in performance, teaching, directing, or even other areas like communication or public relations where presentation skills are valued.

It's crucial to remember that you don't necessarily need to pursue a career directly related to your major. Plenty of successful individuals have careers that don't line up neatly with their undergraduate degree. The skills you gain from any major - such as writing, research, critical thinking, problem-solving, or creativity - can be transferred to various careers. As a tip, consider double majoring or minoring in a field that complements your interests and expands your career opportunities if you're concerned about employability.

Ultimately, it's important to balance your interests and passion with practical considerations about your future career. Align your college major with your long-term goals, and valuing the skills and knowledge you've gained from that major is far from "useless."