Back in the day, we were told to go to college, earn a degree, and make a way for ourselves. But today, the cost of living has skyrocketed, and the degrees that once meant earning a decent living are now like vintage shops in a digital era. Grads are now up against major shifts in the job market, leaving them with tons of student debt in an unforgiving economy (talk about a plot twist!) Here are five majors you may want to reconsider in 2024. Let’s get it!

Biology

If studying living things fascinates you, choosing biology as your major might seem like a no-brainer. However, biology covers a broad range of topics, from ecology to genetics. While this allows for exploration, many higher-paying roles within the field often require a specialized degree and/or advanced education. 

Graduates may find themselves in an oversaturated job market where a generalized biology degree doesn’t necessarily stand out. So unless you are on a clear path to graduate school or pursuing a specific subfield, a degree in biology might not be the right move. 

Entrepreneurship

Many opt out of entrepreneurship, mainly due to the responsibility that comes with it. Sink or swim—it’s a lot of pressure, but not enough to deter you.

Because you know in your heart that you were meant to be your own boss and want to answer to no one but the IRS. Maybe you don’t have a full game plan just yet, but you know the end result for you has to be entrepreneurship. If this sounds like you, you’ve already got the drive to succeed.  

Entrepreneurship, by nature, thrives on real-world experience, creativity, and adaptability—skills often easier developed through practical, hands-on learning rather than a structured college curriculum; some of the most successful entrepreneurs have no degree in business or entrepreneurship.

Still, it’s advised to seek some sort of guidance, and there are plenty of online (free and cost-effective) resources to help aspiring entrepreneurs succeed without taking on a mountain of debt. 

Criminal Justice

Few careers in the legal system specifically require a degree in criminal justice (and no, it won’t improve your chances of admission to law school). Sure, it will look good on your resume when applying for something within the field, like law enforcement, but the degree itself isn’t a requirement. 

Instead, many of these roles require specialized, formal training to earn certifications that align more closely with the