According to a new study published by Visual Capitalist using data from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, some college degrees in 2025 carry significantly higher risks of unemployment—regardless of mid-career salary.
While a college education is often seen as a gateway to career success, not all degrees offer equal employment prospects. The latest report reveals that certain fields of study are increasingly disconnected from labor market demands, leaving many graduates struggling to find jobs despite competitive earnings.
Degrees with the Highest Unemployment Rates
Anthropology tops the list with the highest unemployment rate at 9.4%, despite a modest mid-career income of $70,000. Similarly, Fine Arts (7.0%) and Sociology (6.7%) also show high unemployment rates, making them risky choices for students concerned about job security after graduation.
High Salaries, But Still High Risk
Some STEM-related fields, such as Computer Engineering ($122,000), Computer Science ($115,000), and Physics ($100,000) offer lucrative mid-career incomes but are not immune to labor market volatility. These majors report unemployment rates ranging from 6.1% to 7.8%, signaling a potential oversupply of talent or a mismatch between graduate skills and industry needs.
Moderate Pay and Above-Average Unemployment
Traditional liberal arts majors continue to face challenges in the job market. Fields like English Language, History, and Liberal Arts all offer average incomes in the range of $70,000–$77,000, yet carry unemployment rates above 4.6%—higher than the overall average.
Public Policy, Communications, and Journalism: Moderate Risk, Reasonable Returns
Degrees such as Public Policy and Law (5.5%), Economics (4.9%), Communications (4.5%), and Journalism (4.4%) strike a balance between moderate income and unemployment risk. These fields may offer better stability, but still require strong skills and adaptability to remain competitive.
Key Takeaway for Students and Parents
Choosing a college major should be based on both passion and practicality. While creative and humanities-based fields provide intellectual fulfillment, they may come with higher job search risks. In contrast, high-income STEM fields are not a guaranteed safe haven, as they also face shifting industry demands and skill gaps.
As Vietnam continues to deepen its integration with global labor markets, students should carefully consider employment trends and skill development—not just degree titles—when planning their educational path.
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Source: Vietnam Insider