Degrees on the Decline: Harvard’s List of 10 College Majors Facing Value Erosion

Harvard economists highlight that 10 traditionally valued college degrees, including business, computer science, and engineering, are losing financial returns due to automation, oversaturation, and shifting employer preferences. The study advises emphasizing skill development, certifications, and specialized career paths to stay future-ready.

New research from Harvard labor economists David J. Deming and Kadeem Noray reveals a sharp decline in the long-term market value of many popular college degrees in 2025. Factors such as rapid technological change, credential saturation, and employer preference for demonstrable skills have led to what experts call a “degree reset.” This shakeup challenges the notion that traditional degrees guarantee lifelong career security, emphasizing continuous upskilling instead.

According to the study, these ten degrees face diminishing financial returns and career prospects:

General Business Administration (including MBA): Oversaturated market and shifting employer demand for niche expertise over broad management skills.
Computer Science: High entry salaries but rapid skill obsolescence requires continuous learning to remain competitive.
Mechanical Engineering: Automation, AI-driven design tools, and offshore production cut into conventional job roles.
Accounting: Increasing use of AI and automation reduces need for manual auditing and bookkeeping tasks.
Biochemistry: Narrow academic focus with limited direct job applications outside academia or advanced medical research.
Psychology (Undergraduate): Few direct career pathways without further specialized study.
English & Humanities: Declining enrollments reflect uncertain career prospects outside education and writing fields.
Sociology & Social Sciences: Weak alignment with direct job market needs, affecting employability.
History: Limited mid-career wage growth and narrow job prospects.
Philosophy: Critical thinking skills are valued, but the degree lacks direct commercial applications.

Harvard’s report stresses that employers increasingly seek specific skills tied to job functions rather than generic degree holders. This trend means students must focus on building real-world capabilities through relevant certifications, internships, and lifelong learning.

Key Highlights

Rapid tech evolution and credential inflation erode the value of many applied and traditional degrees.
Even elite MBAs face challenges securing top-tier roles without continuous skill upgrades.
STEM fields require constant reskilling due to fast-paced innovation and automation.
Humanities and social sciences shrink in popularity amid concern over clear career paths.
Emphasis shifts toward specific, demonstrable skills over generic academic credentials.

Ultimately, students are advised to choose degrees with clear career trajectories or supplement studies with in-demand skills such as data analysis, AI literacy, or digital marketing to future-proof their careers.

Sources Harvard Business School research, The Harvard Crimson, Jagran Josh, Times of India, India Today, Gifted & Talented

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