Why do some college majors leave graduates struggling to find work while others practically guarantee a job? The answer reveals surprising patterns about which degrees create the toughest paths to employment.
Anthropology majors face the steepest climb, with unemployment hitting nearly 8 percent compared to the national average of 4.3 percent. That means almost one in twelve anthropology graduates cannot find work at all.
Anthropology graduates face unemployment rates nearly double the national average, making it one of the riskiest degree choices for securing work.
Fine arts and performing arts majors struggle similarly, with unemployment rates above 6 percent and performing arts showing a staggering 64 percent underemployment rate. Most graduates in these fields end up working jobs that never required a college degree in the first place.
Criminal justice presents another concerning picture. Nearly 66 percent of graduates work in positions that don’t need a bachelor’s degree, making it one of the most underemployed majors available.
History majors seem to recognize these challenges early, with over half pursuing graduate degrees to improve their prospects.
Computer science creates an unusual puzzle. Despite being considered a high-demand field, graduates face 7 percent unemployment as tech companies pulled back hiring after expanding too rapidly during the pandemic. However, those who do find work usually land in their field, with underemployment below 20 percent. This means getting that first job proves difficult, but the degree pays off once employment happens.
Early childhood education majors also struggle markedly despite working in a practical field. Limited funding and restricted hiring in early childhood sectors create barriers that keep many graduates from securing positions.
The broader picture looks increasingly challenging. Recent graduates ages 22 to 27 saw unemployment climb to 5.7 percent in late 2025, while underemployment reached 42.5 percent, the highest since 2020. The New York Fed has tracked employment data for recent college graduates across the United States since 1990, providing decades of perspective on these labor market trends.
Employers project only 1.6 percent more hiring for the Class of 2026, suggesting tight markets will continue.
These statistics matter because choosing a major shapes financial futures. The New York Fed analysis ranked employment outcomes by major, incorporating both early-career earnings and mid-career pay alongside job-match metrics. Understanding which degrees create employment challenges helps students make informed decisions about their education investments and career paths. Additionally, awareness of broader economic factors like inflation pressures can help graduates plan for changes in the job market and real income over time.
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