For years, we have encouraged students to choose a college major based on interest, academic merit, and expected salary outcomes. Engineering and computer science are generally considered safer options due to strong demand and higher starting salaries, while humanities and social science degrees face career prospects issues. However, as the job market changes, a new factor becomes increasingly important: how many different career paths a degree can open.As industries recruit new graduates at a slower pace, the value of a college degree may no longer be determined solely by the first job it leads to, but also by how easily graduates can move between industries. New data from LinkedIn shows that versatility (the ability to apply skills across multiple industries) is becoming a key advantage for young professionals entering a challenging employment environment.According to data shared exclusively with LinkedIn ForbesOverall recruitment is down from pre-pandemic levels, putting pressure on graduates with different academic backgrounds. Forbes LinkedIn analyzed the most common majors among recent bachelor’s degree graduates on its platform and looked at hiring prospects in fields directly related to those degrees and graduates’ ability to transition into other industries, the report said.The findings point to an unexpected trend: some social sciences and humanities graduates are seeking opportunities where their communication, research, analysis and problem-solving skills can be applied across sectors. Meanwhile, some professional fields, including engineering and technology-related majors, have seen larger declines in hiring associated with traditional career paths.
Versatility emerges as major factor in job market slowdown
The changing employment landscape means graduates may increasingly need to look beyond the traditional career routes associated with their degrees. For example, business graduates may move into marketing, consultancy, operations or technology roles, while social science graduates may find opportunities in research, policy, human resources, communications or business strategy.Forbes points out that while certain tech fields continue to offer strong employment opportunities, when recruitment slows in core industries, graduates with more specialized skills may not have many immediate options.LinkedIn analysis found that hiring of recent college graduates declined between December 2019 and April 2026 for entry-level positions related to their majors in the 15 most common majors on the platform.
Majors with biggest drops in graduate recruitment
Source: Forbes citing LinkedIn data
Why humanities and social science degrees are gaining attention
The figures highlight a shift in the way employers assess graduates’ skills. Degrees that develop transferable skills such as writing, communication, critical thinking, and understanding human behavior can provide pathways into a variety of industries.Social sciences, psychology, communications and related fields can prepare graduates to compete for roles outside traditional academic fields. As companies adapt to changing technologies and business models, employees who can analyze information, communicate effectively and work cross-functionally are increasingly valued.This does not mean that technical degrees have lost their importance. Fields such as engineering and computer science continue to play an important role in industries driven by technology and innovation. However, LinkedIn’s findings suggest that graduates may benefit from developing additional skills to enable them to adapt to changes in recruitment conditions.
What students should consider when choosing a major
Career experts are increasingly advising students to think beyond just that first job after graduation. The long-term value of a degree may depend on whether it provides a foundation for continued learning and mobility across industries.Students choosing a major today may want to consider questions beyond salary expectations: Will this degree help me develop skills that employers value in a variety of fields? Can I combine this with digital skills, internships or practical experience? If an industry slows down, will it give me flexibility?As the graduate job market becomes more competitive, adaptability may become as important as the subjects students choose to study.
