As we step into 2025, the world of education and career opportunities is evolving rapidly, with technology, globalization, and changing societal needs shaping the future job market. While some degrees and fields of study continue to provide valuable skills and open doors to lucrative careers, others have lost relevance, leading to dwindling prospects for graduates. In this article, we will explore some of the worst courses to study in 2025, focusing on those that are becoming increasingly obsolete, over-saturated, or lack real-world application.
1. Print Journalism
Print journalism, once a cornerstone of media and communication, is facing a rapid decline in the digital age. With the rise of online platforms, social media, and digital journalism, traditional print newspapers and magazines have seen their readerships dwindle. Many newspapers are moving online or shutting down entirely, reducing job opportunities for aspiring print journalists. As advertising revenue shifts away from print media to digital outlets, print journalism is no longer a stable career path.
Students interested in pursuing a career in journalism should focus on digital platforms and content creation, where there are far more opportunities for growth. Social media management, data journalism, and multimedia storytelling are areas that have much more potential and are likely to see increased demand in 2025 and beyond.
2. Traditional Graphic Design
Graphic design as a traditional field is undergoing significant transformation. While graphic design itself remains important, the role of a graphic designer is changing, especially in the realm of static, print-based designs. Many businesses are now relying on web design, user experience (UX), and user interface (UI) design to create digital experiences for their customers. As a result, the demand for traditional graphic designers, particularly those focused solely on print media and static design, is in decline.
For those passionate about design, pursuing a career that integrates graphic design with technology, such as UX/UI design or web development, can offer far greater career stability. This shift is already taking place, and it’s likely that by 2025, traditional graphic design will be a less desirable field to pursue.
3. Theology and Religious Studies
While religious studies may appeal to those with a deep interest in theology, philosophy, and religious history, it is a field with limited career prospects in the modern world. The job market for religious studies graduates is restricted, with most opportunities found in academic settings, religious organizations, and non-profit sectors. Furthermore, the increasing secularization of many societies worldwide has reduced the demand for clergy, theologians, and religious scholars.
In 2025, students pursuing a degree in theology and religious studies may find that their career options are narrow and highly specialized. Those interested in these fields may want to combine their studies with practical skills in counseling, social work, or other areas that can provide more diverse career opportunities.
4. Photography (Traditional, Non-Digital)
While photography as a whole remains a popular hobby and profession, traditional photography (film-based photography) is becoming increasingly irrelevant in the digital age. The rise of digital cameras, smartphone cameras, and photo-editing software has made traditional, non-digital photography obsolete for most commercial and personal purposes. While there will always be a place for high-end professional photographers, particularly in fields like wedding photography and photojournalism, those focusing on outdated techniques are unlikely to find success in a competitive market.
Aspiring photographers should focus on digital photography, video production, and editing, all of which remain in high demand. Developing skills in areas such as drone photography, 3D imaging, and content creation for social media platforms is a much more lucrative avenue for creative individuals.
5. Fashion Design (Traditional)
Fashion design is another creative field that, while still relevant, is undergoing significant change. The traditional model of designing clothing for physical retail stores is being replaced by digital and online shopping experiences. Additionally, sustainability concerns and the rise of eco-conscious fashion have caused the industry to shift toward more sustainable practices, such as upcycling and using eco-friendly materials. Many fashion houses are rethinking their practices, and large-scale mass production is no longer as popular as it once was.
While a degree in fashion design can still open doors to creative opportunities, the traditional approach to fashion design—focused on physical garments and mass production—is facing challenges. Fashion technology, sustainable fashion, and digital fashion (e.g., virtual clothing and 3D printing) are emerging as more promising areas. Fashion students should consider these innovative fields to stay relevant in the industry.
6. Philosophy
Philosophy as a degree has been a point of debate for years, with critics arguing that it lacks direct applicability in the job market. While philosophy teaches valuable critical thinking, ethics, and reasoning skills, it often doesn’t offer a clear pathway to specific careers. Many philosophy graduates struggle to find jobs related directly to their field of study and end up working in general management, teaching, or consulting.
In 2025, the demand for philosophy graduates is likely to continue dwindling, especially as the job market becomes more specialized. Philosophy enthusiasts should consider combining their studies with more practical skills in areas such as law, business, or psychology, where philosophical knowledge can be applied in a real-world context.
7. Broadcasting (Traditional Television and Radio)
With the explosion of streaming services, podcasts, and digital media platforms, traditional broadcasting careers—such as those in television and radio—are facing a significant decline. The way audiences consume media is rapidly shifting away from traditional forms of broadcasting to on-demand content, leading to a reduced need for traditional broadcasters, journalists, and technicians working in TV and radio.
Instead of pursuing a degree in traditional broadcasting, students should consider careers in digital media production, content creation for YouTube and other platforms, podcasting, or social media influencing. These fields offer more opportunities in 2025, as they align with current trends in media consumption and offer greater flexibility and potential for growth.
8. Event Management (In-Person Events)
While event management is an important industry, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift towards virtual and hybrid events. In-person events, such as conferences, festivals, and trade shows, are increasingly being replaced by virtual or hybrid alternatives that combine online and offline experiences. As a result, event management degrees focused solely on organizing in-person gatherings may become less relevant in 2025.
The future of event management lies in digital platforms, virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) technologies that create immersive and interactive experiences. Students interested in event management should focus on virtual event planning, digital marketing, and the technology behind virtual experiences to align with industry trends.
9. Humanities and Social Sciences (Without Specialization)
Humanities and social sciences degrees, such as general sociology, anthropology, or history, can be valuable for developing critical thinking and communication skills. However, without a clear specialization or practical application, these degrees are becoming less attractive to employers. Many graduates find themselves struggling to secure well-paying jobs in fields directly related to their degree.
In 2025, students pursuing humanities or social science degrees should consider focusing on niche areas that offer more career opportunities, such as digital humanities, data analysis in social sciences, or international relations. These specialized fields combine the strengths of humanities education with the demand for practical, applicable skills in today’s economy.
10. General Business Degrees (Without Focus)
While business degrees remain popular, general business studies without a clear focus may not be as valuable in 2025. The job market is increasingly favoring more specialized business degrees, such as those in data analytics, supply chain management, or digital marketing, which provide graduates with more direct, applicable skills.
General business degrees can still open doors to various career paths, but they are less likely to provide the same level of competitive advantage as specialized business education. Students interested in business should consider pursuing a focused degree or adding a specialization to their business studies to improve their employability.
Conclusion
As the world continues to evolve in 2025, so too does the educational landscape. Courses that once held prestige and promise are now being overshadowed by new technologies, societal shifts, and changing demands in the job market. While traditional fields like print journalism, theology, and broadcasting may still appeal to certain individuals, they are no longer the best paths to a secure and prosperous career.
In contrast, fields like digital media, sustainable fashion, and specialized business education are rapidly gaining importance. Students should focus on degrees that offer adaptability, technological relevance, and practical skills to ensure a successful and fulfilling future.
