How Many People Actually Use Their Degree?

Hi, what's up fellow juniors? So I've been thinking about majors and careers lately, and I'm wondering, how many people end up actually using their college degree in their job? Are most people able to find jobs in their field or do they end up doing something completely unrelated?

Hey there! It's normal to be curious about how college degrees translate into the workforce. It's true that not everyone ends up in a job directly related to their major, but many people do find work in their field of study. The exact percentage varies depending on the major and industry.

Many individuals who study in fields with a clear career path, such as engineering, teaching, healthcare, and accounting, often find jobs directly related to their majors. These fields typically have licensing requirements or certifications that align with their coursework, so it makes sense that graduates pursue work within those areas.

Meanwhile, graduates with degrees in liberal arts fields, like history, philosophy, or sociology, may be more likely to find jobs in industries that aren't directly related to their major. The skills honed in these programs are often transferable, so these graduates still benefit from their education but may work in various industries not specifically related to their major. Being flexible with your career path and letting your transferable skills guide you is essential in today's rapidly evolving workforce.

To increase the likelihood of working in your chosen field, it's crucial to gain practical experience through internships, part-time jobs, or volunteering while in college. These experiences can provide you with a better understanding of what types of roles are available and make you more competitive in the job market, especially if you’re looking to work in a field that’s not directly related to what you studied.

It’s worth noting that, in most other countries, your major determines your career options to a much greater extent. So, if you think you may want to live abroad one day, just keep in mind that you may not be able to market yourself the way you can for American companies.

In the United States, though, overall whether people use their degree depends largely on the field, the individual's career goals, and the experiences they've garnered throughout their education. It's essential to focus on developing your skills and gaining practical experience to maximize the value your degree offers in the job market. Good luck on your college and career journey!