In Nigeria today, having a university degree no longer guarantees a job. Many graduates submit countless applications, attend multiple interviews, and still struggle to secure employment. While education remains important, some courses no longer offer strong career opportunities.
With technology advancing and industries changing, certain degrees that were once in high demand now have limited job openings. If you’re planning to choose a course or already studying, it’s important to know which degrees might make job hunting more difficult.
Top 5 Degrees with the Toughest Job Prospects in 2025
This doesn’t mean these degrees are useless, but if you study one of them, you may need extra skills, work experience, or a backup plan.
1. Mass Communication
Mass communication was once a promising course, but today, it is overcrowded. Thousands of graduates enter the job market each year, yet media houses and PR firms hire only a few. Traditional journalism jobs are also shrinking due to digital media and AI, which can now generate news content.
To improve your chances, learn digital marketing, video editing, or content creation. Social media management is another high-demand skill that can open more doors.
2. Sociology and Anthropology
These courses provide valuable knowledge about society and culture, but they have limited direct career paths in Nigeria. Most graduates struggle to find jobs unless they switch to related fields like human resources, research, or development work.
If you’re passionate about this field, consider short courses in HR, data analysis, or social work. NGOs and international organizations like the UN sometimes hire sociology graduates.
3. Philosophy
Philosophy teaches critical thinking, but there are few job opportunities directly linked to this degree. Since there are no “philosopher” job positions, most graduates end up in unrelated fields like teaching, law, or business.
To boost employability, pair your degree with a practical skill like coding, business management, or public speaking. These can help you stand out in the job market.
4. History and International Relations
History graduates often find it difficult to secure well-paying jobs unless they become historians, researchers, or teachers. International relations offers slightly better opportunities, but jobs in this field are still limited.
To increase your chances, develop skills in diplomacy, political analysis, or international business. Learning a foreign language like French or Chinese can also be a great advantage.
5. Library and Information Science
In the past, librarians were in high demand, but with the rise of digital libraries and AI, many traditional library jobs are disappearing. Additionally, fewer new libraries are being built, making the job market smaller.
If you love this field, consider shifting to data management or knowledge management. Learning IT skills like database management can also help you secure better job opportunities.
In the End
If you’re studying any of these degrees, don’t be discouraged. The key is to adapt, learn extra skills, and be open to new career paths. Consider gaining work experience, taking online courses, or starting a side hustle to improve your chances in the job market.
