10 Lowest-Paying Majors, Harsh Truth and What Can You Do About It

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Upon college discoveries, these lowest paying majors never fail to induce fear for aspiring students, future-focused individuals, and even parents.

While it’s true that the workforce has become more lenient in their recruitment processes, relevant skill sets gained and background studies still play pivotal roles in determining your salary. 

10 Lowest Paying Majors in the Present Days 

Indeed suggested that theology and fine and performing arts are the current lowest paying majors for ranging reasons. Other academic disciplines sharing unfortunate reputation also include: 

1. Theology - US$40,000 per year 

Theology occupies the top spot of lowest paying majors list due to its rather small job opportunities. Having a sole focus on various religious texts, religions, and the relationship between humans and religion, theology students are bound to enter the workforce as either youth pastors or workers of volunteer services.

However, graduates of this field of study can also consider roles like religious education teacher and journalist in leveraging their scope of work. 

2. Fine and performing arts - US$42,000 per year 

When it comes to creative realms, individuals have to be extremely outstanding to stand out with their aptitude among other remarkable artists in the industries. On the bright side, fine and performing arts are deemed as the rightful contender for the list of jobs that can’t be replaced by AI. 

More to that, social media has profoundly endorsed the widespread of arts globally, crossing borders to indulge in arts. With the right resources, it’s not entirely impossible to thrive as fine and performing art students. 

3. Public policy and social services - US$47,000 per year 

Indeed deemed public policy and social services degree as one of the lowest paying majors not without reason. Students of public policy and social services gain a rich blend of skills and knowledge that shine brightest in socially conscious communities or places where purpose often outweighs paychecks. 

If you're a graduate with your eyes set on a more lucrative path, however, stepping into the world of market research analysis whose average salary reaches an impressive US$78,645 should become your top priority. 

4. Education - US$48,000  per year 

Driven by a passion to create equal learning opportunities, many students gravitate toward education as a college major.

Year after year, it remains one of the most popular choices. But behind its enduring appeal lies a sobering reality that careers in primary and secondary education often come with modest salaries, despite the critical role educators play in shaping society.

5. Psychology - US$50,000 per year 

In 2023, psychology majors accounted for 6 percent of all student loan applications, according to Student Choice. With a strong focus on mental health, psychology graduates have a range of career options to explore. 

However, it’s worth noting that most roles as a psychologist or psychiatrist require an advanced degree, such as a master’s or Ph.D.

Even so, a bachelor’s degree in psychology can still open the door to thriving careers in fields like human resources, market research, and case management.

6. Library science - US$50,000 per year 

As digital books become the norm, graduates of library science may find it increasingly difficult to land high-paying roles in traditional settings.

Yet, their sharp organizational skills and attention to detail open doors to alternative, and often more lucrative careers, including editing, teaching, and education administration. 

7. Liberal arts - US$50,000 per year 

The broad scope of a liberal arts education can be a double-edged sword when it comes to job security. With a curriculum centered on general knowledge in fields like fine arts, natural sciences, humanities, religion, and philosophy, graduates often leave without the specialized skills many industries demand.

This gap can lead to limited job prospects and, in many cases, lower starting salaries. 

8. English - US$51,000 per year  

Despite its inclusion as one of the lowest paying majors, English graduates can rely on marketing roles to build a financially stable life. From copywriters and editors, to social media managers as well as SEO specialists, these vacancies could bring profitable career paths.

Though you might need relevant internship experiences or other summer courses before lurching into the industry. 

9. History - US$60,000 per year  

A degree in History often leads graduates down traditional paths, such as education and public service, which don’t always offer high-paying opportunities. As a result, more lucrative roles like museum archivists, historians, and researchers frequently stand out as promising career options.

Despite the modest salary expectations, these positions allow History graduates to apply their expertise in meaningful and rewarding ways.

10. Social science - US$64,000 per year  

Social science majors acquire a comprehensive understanding of political systems, economic markets, and criminology. Their studies often span specializations like economics, geography, history, legal studies, sociology, and anthropology.

With the full force of globalization unfolding, these fields are increasingly vital in shaping our interconnected world.

While the salary figures for these lowest paying majors might raise some concerns, it's important to remember that passion, purpose, and personal fulfillment play a significant role in career choices.

Many of these fields offer opportunities for graduates to make a meaningful impact on society, and with the right strategy and additional skills, success is still within reach.

Editor’s Choice: Top 10 Most Useful College Degrees to Chase with Excellent Careers

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