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Newsweek
a day ago
- Business
- Newsweek
List of Popular College Majors With High Unemployment Rates
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Your college major can play a significant role in the type of job you'll find after graduation and the amount of income you can expect in a salary. But surprisingly, some of the most popular majors have high unemployment rates, according to data from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. Majors such as computer science and physics had some of the highest unemployment rates, at 6.1 and 7.8 percent, respectively, despite being considered relatively stable STEM fields. "A graduate's degree doesn't guarantee job security, and in some cases, it can make you overqualified and underemployed, especially when debt is involved," Kevin Thompson, the CEO of 9i Capital Group and the host of the 9Innings podcast, told Newsweek. Why It Matters The national unemployment rate was 4.2 percent in April, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Choosing certain college majors could significantly increase your chances of going without a job, according to New York Fed data. While some fields may have historically been viewed as more stable and likely to lead to a lucrative career, the new data could shift the way students choose their majors now and in the future. What To Know Computer science ranked seventh among undergraduate majors with the highest unemployment at 6.1 percent, according to the New York Fed. However, it also ranked as number one by the Princeton Review for college majors, showing the tech industry may not be living up to graduates' expectations. According to CollegeFactual, it was the 12th most popular major in the 2021-2022 school year. The full list of college majors with the highest unemployment rates was as follows: Anthropology, 9.4 percent Physics, 7.8 percent Computer Engineering, 7.5 percent Commercial Art and Graphic Design, 7.2 percent Fine Arts, 7 percent Sociology, 6.7 percent Computer Science, 6.1 percent Chemistry, 6.1 percent Information Systems and Management, 5.6 percent Public Policy and Law, 5.5 percent Graduating college students gather in Harvard Yard on May 28, 2025, in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Graduating college students gather in Harvard Yard on May 28, 2025, in Cambridge, of these areas of study were far less desirable than computer science, with physics ranking as the 68th most popular major, according to CollegeFactual. Only 9,310 students obtain a bachelor's degree in anthropology each year, according to Niche. And under 7,000 earn their degree in graphic design, although many others enter the field with a slightly different degree title. Fine arts was ranked number 66 in popularity by CollegeFactual, with sociology, chemistry, information systems, and public policy coming in at numbers 25, 51, 314, and 113, respectively. Majors such as nutrition sciences, construction services, and civil engineering had some of the lowest unemployment rates, hovering between 1 percent and as low as 0.4 percent. What People Are Saying Kevin Thompson, the CEO of 9i Capital Group and the host of the 9innings podcast, told Newsweek: "The higher unemployment rates in computer science and computer engineering were unexpected, especially considering the direction of our economy. With AI and chip manufacturing dominating headlines, you'd think these roles would be in high demand. But maybe that's the issue—are these professionals building the very tools that will replace them?" Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor for the University of Tennessee at Martin, told Newsweek: "It will undoubtedly shock many to see majors like computer engineering and computer science with unemployment rates as high as their fine arts counterparts, but there are plenty of reasons. These majors were rightfully promoted over the last two decades to many students, as demand for employees in these fields far outweighed the supply of skilled workers available." "Now, unfortunately, these same areas are dealing with oversaturation, more competition when applying for roles, and an industry that has seen layoffs over the last years as many businesses attempt to get more efficient." What Happens Next The unemployment rate for recent college graduates increased to 5.8 percent in March from 4.6 percent the previous year, according to the New York Fed. Moving forward, there could be a continued shift away from both the arts and hard sciences toward trade-focused or more generalized degrees," Thompson said. "Government funding for science and research projects has slowed, and that impacts job creation in these fields. It's possible we're seeing the effects of that play out in the data," he said.
Yahoo
4 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
4 Avon High School students earn perfect ACT scores
AVON, Ohio (WJW) — Four Avon High School students have achieved what only a fraction of test takers ever accomplish: a perfect score of 36 on the ACT. Marisa Weller, Leah Carducci, Lily Fitch, and Alex Balthaser were recently recognized for the rare academic feat. Ohio school board makes unanimous decision to suspend high school According to the Princeton Review, about 0.2% of all test takers get a perfect score on the college entrance exam each year. The test evaluates students on English, math, reading and science. The four appeared together Friday on FOX 8 News This Morning, where they spoke about how they prepared. Two of the girls said it was their first time taking the test. 'I was just trying to do my best,' one shared. 'I studied a lot, and it paid off.' 'I looked at a book and did some online prep, and I knew if I didn't do my best, it was OK,' another of the girls said. 'The thing I needed to most focus on was timing,' another said. Mystery surrounds rare bird seen in Kent the past few weeks: 'Not from Ohio' And here's their advice for other test takers: 'Take lots of practice tests to figure out what you need to work on more.' 'Get a good night's sleep.' All four girls are juniors, and they have big plans. One hopes to pursue a degree in neuroscience, another biology or microbiology, one is interested in epidemiology and the fourth plans to go to law school. Find out more in the video at the top of the story. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Newsweek
23-05-2025
- Business
- Newsweek
A Popular College Major Has One of The Highest Unemployment Rates
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Despite routinely ranking as one of the most popular majors for college students and recent graduates, computer science has one of the highest unemployment rates across all areas of study. Computer science ranked seventh amongst undergraduate majors with the highest unemployment at 6.1 percent, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. "Every kid with a laptop thinks they're the next Zuckerberg, but most can't debug their way out of a paper bag," one expert told Newsweek. Why It Matters In recent years, demand for computer science majors grew as a result of the tech boom during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, as major companies like Amazon and Google have laid off thousands of workers to boost profits, the major has lost some of its appeal in the job market. New York University graduates celebrate during commencement ceremonies in Washington Square Park May 10, 2007, in New York City. New York University graduates celebrate during commencement ceremonies in Washington Square Park May 10, 2007, in New York To Know Despite computer science being ranked as number one by the Princeton Review for college majors, the tech industry may not be living up to graduates' expectations. When it came to undergraduate majors with the highest unemployment rates, computer science came in at number seven, even amid its relative popularity. The major saw an unemployment rate of 6.1 percent, just under those top majors like physics and anthropology, which had rates of 7.8 and 9.4 percent respectively. Computer engineering, which at many schools is the same as computer science, had a 7.5 percent unemployment rate, calling into question the job market many computer science graduates are entering. On the other hand, majors like nutrition sciences, construction services and civil engineering had some of the lowest unemployment rates, hovering between 1 percent to as low as 0.4 percent. This data was based on The New York Fed's report, which looked at Census data from 2023 and unemployment rates of recent college graduates. Unemployment among recent graduates more broadly is increasing, with the number of Gen Z households receiving unemployment climbing by 32 percent year over year in February. Meanwhile, the unemployment rate for recent college graduates went up to 5.8 percent in March from 4.6 percent last year, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. What People Are Saying Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor for the University of Tennessee at Martin, told Newsweek: "Seeing such a high unemployment rate for majors like computer science may stun many Americans. After all, it's been one of the most encouraged majors in recent years due to the unprecedented need in the field by many businesses." "However, an abundance of those who major in a field doesn't necessarily create more talent, and as many companies have developed more complex needs, they often want employees more skilled with a proven track record of success. As a result, some new graduates may find it more difficult than expected to obtain a job, especially in our current environment where some employers are scaling back." HR consultant Bryan Driscoll told Newsweek: "Computer science majors have long been sold a dream that doesn't match reality. Pick the 'right' major, work hard, and you'll land a stable, high-paying job. But just like many majors and related jobs, the reality hits hard - too many grads, not enough jobs, crippling student debt, and a market that rewards pedigree over potential." Michael Ryan, a finance expert and the founder of told Newsweek: "Every kid with a laptop thinks they're the next Zuckerberg, but most can't debug their way out of a paper bag... We created a gold rush mentality around coding right as the gold ran out. Companies are cutting engineering budgets by 40 percent while CS enrollment hits record highs. It's basic economics. Flood the market, crater the wages." What Happens Next For many computer science roles, you'll have tens of thousands of graduates chasing the job, which now demands years of experience, an impressive GitHub and the ability to work for low pay, Driscoll said. "The problem is the system. We've overproduced degrees without addressing how exploitative and gatekept the tech hiring pipeline has become," Driscoll said. "Entry-level roles are vanishing, unpaid internships are still rampant, and companies are offshoring or automating the very jobs these grads trained for."
Hans India
22-05-2025
- Business
- Hans India
US Undergraduate Admissions in 2025-26: Challenges & Opportunities
The landscape of US undergraduate admissions in 2025 is more competitive, complex, and stressful than ever before. Students, parents, and educators are navigating a system marked by record application volumes, evolving admissions criteria, and mounting financial pressures-all of which are shaping the outlook for 2026 and beyond. Rising Application Volumes and Intensified Competition This year, the number of college applications has surged yet again. The Class of 2025 submitted over 8 million applications through the Common App, a 6% increase from last year, with schools like NYU experiencing a staggering 53% rise in applications over five years. Public universities, especially in the South and Southwest, are seeing the sharpest growth, making even these options increasingly competitive. For example, Columbia University received nearly 60,000 applications for fewer than 2,500 spots. This phenomenon, known as "application inflation," is creating unpredictable outcomes, even for high-achieving students. The Early Decision Advantage Applying early has become a strategic necessity. Many top universities now fill over half their incoming class through Early Decision or Early Action rounds. The advantage is clear: Emory admitted 28% of Early Decision applicants in 2025, compared to just 8% in Regular Decision. This trend pressures students to make binding choices earlier and can disadvantage those needing to compare financial aid offers. Holistic Admissions and the Decline of Standardized Testing US universities are increasingly adopting holistic admissions, placing greater emphasis on essays, extracurriculars, and personal stories rather than just grades and test scores. The test-optional movement, accelerated by the pandemic, remains strong in 2025, with many schools no longer requiring SAT or ACT scores. As Caroline Linger, Lead Counselor at , explains, 'A holistic approach that considers an applicant's character, personal experiences, and unique perspectives is gaining prominence. Technology, especially Artificial Intelligence, is playing a significant role, making the admissions process more accessible and efficient. Aspiring students must adapt to these changes, emphasizing authenticity, personal growth, and community contribution for a successful application'. Financial Pressures and Parental Concerns The cost of college remains a top concern. According to a 2025 Princeton Review survey, 98% of those surveyed report needing financial aid, and the leading worry for applicants is the 'level of debt to pay for the degree'. This financial anxiety is compounded by the unpredictability of admissions outcomes and the fear of not gaining entry to a Top Tier University or College. Stress and Uncertainty for All Stakeholders The emotional toll is significant: 73% of students and parents report high stress about applications. The unpredictability of results, the pressure to stand out in a crowded field, and the need for strategic planning are pushing families to seek expert guidance and comprehensive support. Looking Ahead to 2026 As the number of high school graduates is projected to decline after 2025, competition for spots at selective institutions is expected to remain fierce, but some less-selective schools may struggle with enrollment. The continued evolution of holistic admissions and the use of technology will further change how applicants are evaluated. For students and families, the key will be adaptability, authenticity, and a well-researched, balanced college list.
Forbes
02-04-2025
- General
- Forbes
5 Critical Trends Reshaping College Admissions
UCLA Corridor The college admissions landscape is undergoing a seismic shift, with the Princeton Review's 2025 College Hopes & Worries Survey revealing five crucial trends that will define the next application cycle. As applications surge by 6% according to Common App data, understanding these evolving dynamics is essential for strategic positioning in an increasingly competitive environment. As the founder of Ivy Insight and creator of the College Admissions X-Factor® methodology, I've analyzed this comprehensive survey of over 9,300 students and parents to identify the most significant trends reshaping how students approach their college journeys. Here are the five critical developments every applicant and family should understand: The survey reveals a dramatic escalation in application anxiety, with 73% of respondents reporting "High" or "Very high" stress levels—a significant jump from 56% in 2003. This increased pressure reflects the growing competitiveness of the admissions landscape, particularly at selective institutions where application volumes continue to climb while admit rates remain stable or decrease. What's particularly telling is how this stress manifests. When asked about the toughest part of their application experiences, 35% cited "completing admission and aid applications," highlighting the overwhelming nature of the process itself rather than just concerns about outcomes. X-Factor Strategy: Managing admissions stress requires a proactive, structured approach. My X-Factor methodology emphasizes breaking down the process into manageable components with clear timelines. Students should develop a realistic application calendar that accounts for all deadlines while allowing buffer time for unexpected challenges. More importantly, students need perspective on how to best position their candidacy and to prepare for the unexpected. Parents play a vital role in stress management, with survey respondents advising: "Don't forget to enjoy this journey with your child" and "Let your child guide the process. It's their path and you're a guide." The most effective support comes from parents who provide structure and encouragement while respecting their student's autonomy. Despite the test-optional movement gaining momentum during the pandemic, standardized testing is making a decisive return. According to the survey, 92% of respondents plan to take the SAT and/or ACT, with 48% opting for the SAT specifically. More telling is the surge in students taking both tests (33%)—a 4% increase from last year. This trend aligns with recent announcements from institutions like Brown, Dartmouth, and MIT reinstating testing requirements. What's particularly interesting is students' reasoning: the plurality (47%) believe "scores can distinguish my applications and improve their chances of being accepted" rather than simply meeting requirements. The digital transformation of these tests is also noteworthy, with 72% of respondents welcoming the shift to digital formats. This suggests students are embracing technological evolution in the assessment process, mirroring the larger digital transformation in higher education. X-Factor Strategy: Even at test-optional schools, strong scores can still provide a competitive edge—particularly for students seeking merit scholarships, as 33% of survey respondents recognized. My X-Factor approach recommends strategic testing: identify your testing strengths early, prepare thoroughly for your stronger test (SAT or ACT), and submit scores selectively where they enhance your application. For students with weaker testing profiles, test-optional policies still provide valuable opportunities. However, these applicants must compensate with exceptional strength in other areas—particularly in demonstrating intellectual vitality through classroom performance, research projects, or independent intellectual pursuits. The survey reveals a significant shift in how admissions officers evaluate applications, moving away from checklist-based approaches toward more holistic assessment. When asked about the major benefit of earning a college degree, 29% of respondents cited "exposure to new ideas, places and people"—highlighting the growing emphasis on intellectual curiosity and personal growth. This aligns with my observations of admissions committees increasingly asking, "What kind of person is this student becoming?" rather than simply tallying achievements. Colleges are seeking applicants who demonstrate curiosity, vulnerability, and self-awareness—qualities that can't be manufactured or padded on a resume. X-Factor Strategy: Authenticity is the cornerstone of the College Admissions X-Factor® methodology. Students must move beyond formulaic essays and curated activities to reveal genuine intellectual engagement and personal growth. This means embracing the vulnerability of sharing failures alongside successes and articulating how these experiences have shaped their perspectives and values. In practice, this requires breaking away from the "perfect application" mindset. Instead of presenting a flawless narrative, students should highlight moments of genuine curiosity, ethical decision-making, and intellectual risk-taking. Essays should showcase original thinking rather than polished perfection, and activities should reflect deep engagement rather than credential collection. The National Association for College Admissions Counseling, which surveys admissions officers from a variety of institutions, confirms this shift, with 84% of institutions emphasizing "positive character attributes" in their decisions. Students who can authentically demonstrate these qualities will stand out even in highly competitive applicant pools. The Princeton Review survey shows students applying to an average of 5-8 colleges (39%), a strategic portfolio approach that increasingly includes early applications. While not directly measured in the survey, this trend correlates with what we're seeing across the admissions landscape: the growing advantage of Early Decision and Early Action applications. The data is compelling: Brown University saw a higher early decision acceptance rate with a smaller applicant pool after reinstating testing requirements, and Northwestern experienced increased early applications under test-optional policies. These patterns suggest that early application strategies are becoming increasingly consequential in shaping incoming classes and the testing policy plays a key role in application volume. X-Factor Strategy: Strategic application timing is now a critical component of admissions success. My X-Factor approach emphasizes thoughtful planning around early applications, with students identifying their clear first-choice institution for potential Early Decision commitment, while maintaining a balanced portfolio of Early Action options. This requires accelerating the entire application timeline—finalizing college lists by spring of junior year, completing main essays over the summer, and preparing application materials for early deadlines. Students must also build demonstrated interest well before application season through meaningful campus interactions, thoughtful communication with admissions representatives, and strategic networking with current students and faculty. For competitive applicants, an Early Decision application can significantly increase admission chances at their dream school. However, this strategy must be balanced with careful consideration of the binding commitment involved. Perhaps the most encouraging trend from the Princeton Review survey is the emphasis on finding the right institutional match. When asked what best describes the college they're likely to choose, nearly half (47%) selected "college that will be the best overall fit," while only 10% chose "college with the best academic reputation." This represents a maturation in how families approach the college search, with fit considerations outweighing pure prestige. It also explains why, despite the anxiety and competition, an overwhelming 99% of respondents believe college will be "worth it"—they're focusing on institutions where their specific needs and goals will be met. X-Factor Strategy: My X-Factor methodology has always emphasized fit over formulaic rankings. True fit encompasses academic alignment, social environment, geographical context, and opportunities for growth. Students should develop a personalized ranking system based on their unique priorities rather than following generic "best colleges" lists. This approach requires deep self-knowledge and institutional research. Students should articulate their learning preferences, community needs, and career aspirations, then identify institutions where these elements align. Campus visits, conversations with current students, and engagement with academic departments are crucial for assessing fit beyond marketing materials. The geographical context of applications is increasingly important in this fit-based approach. The survey data shows shifting application patterns across regions, with notable increases from the Southwest. Students should thoughtfully consider how their geographical background has shaped their perspectives and how various campus environments might expand or challenge their worldview. These five trends collectively point to a more nuanced, multidimensional admissions process that rewards authentic differentiation and strategic positioning. As applications continue to increase, standing out requires more than impressive statistics. The successful applicant in this environment will be one who can authentically communicate their unique value proposition—their College Admissions X-Factor®—to target institutions. This means developing and articulating intellectual vitality, demonstrating character through meaningful engagement, and strategically positioning oneself within the applicant pool. The goal isn't simply admission to a prestigious institution, but finding an educational environment where your student can genuinely thrive. By understanding these five critical trends and applying strategic X-Factor principles to college admissions, today's applicants can approach the process with confidence—focused not on gaming the system, but on authentically presenting their unique strengths and contributions to their future academic communities.
