What Degrees Are Not Worth Getting at Harvard University?

Choosing the right degree program is a critical decision, especially when attending an institution like Harvard University. While many degrees offered at Harvard provide unparalleled academic experiences and networking opportunities, some may not be the best investment in terms of financial return on investment (ROI) and career prospects. This article explores various degrees that may not be worth the cost at Harvard and beyond.

Highly Specialized Fields with Limited Job Markets

Some highly specialized fields within the humanities or certain theoretical sciences may lack robust job markets. These programs often produce graduates who find fewer job opportunities. For instance, pursuing a degree in a niche area of literature, philosophy, or certain branches of mathematics may yield fewer career options post-graduation.

Certain Undergraduate Programs

Not all undergraduate programs directly lead to specific career paths. Degrees in the liberal arts, for example, may be viewed as less valuable in terms of immediate job prospects compared to more vocational or technical degrees. While fields like computer science, engineering, or business administration offer clear career pathways, humanities majors may require graduates to seek alternative career strategies, such as entrepreneurship or careers in non-profit organizations.

Low Demand Professions

Some traditional professions with declining demand, such as traditional print journalism and certain areas of the fine arts, face challenges in securing employment. Graduates from these programs may struggle to find job opportunities, as the market for their skills has contracted or shifted to new technologies and platforms.

Graduate Degrees with Limited ROI

While many graduate programs significantly increase earning potential or job opportunities, some may not provide a substantial return on the investment. For instance, pursuing a master’s degree in the humanities at Harvard, where the cost of education can be high, may not offer a significant financial payoff compared to the amount of debt accumulated. This is particularly true for fields like theater, which has limited earning potential for professionals in the field.

Perception vs. Reality

It’s important to recognize that the perceived prestige or practicality of a degree does not always reflect its actual value. Degrees that are not traditionally viewed as prestigious or practical may still provide valuable skills and knowledge. Personal passion and career satisfaction should also be a significant factor in the decision-making process. Prospective students should carefully research and consider their long-term goals when choosing a degree program.

Exceptional Circumstances

In certain exceptional circumstances, such as being very economically disadvantaged and receiving significant need-based aid, attending Harvard for certain high-demand programs like computer science could be a worthwhile investment. Many public universities also offer competitive programs in fields like computer science, producing graduates that competition equally with those from top-tier institutions. Hiring managers have noted a significant number of strong CS graduates from public universities, making them excellent candidates for in-state graduates.

Conclusion

The worth of a degree is highly subjective and can vary widely based on individual circumstances, career aspirations, and the evolving job market. Prospective students must weigh the potential financial and career benefits against the cost of education carefully. It is crucial for students to research and consider their long-term goals, personal interests, and the specific job market for their chosen field.

Example: Harvard’s Graduate Theater Program

Harvard's Graduate Theater Program faced significant challenges, temporarily closing its admissions for three years. Students who graduated from this program often faced an average debt of $78,000. This substantial amount of debt, combined with the generally lower earnings potential in the theater industry, made the program a particularly poor financial decision. While the theater degree itself is not worthless, it is expensive and may not justify the financial burden.