The myth of 'Mickey Mouse' degrees
With 60% of graduate jobs being skills based, employers value critical thinking, communication, and problem solving over subject-specific knowledge. Discover how to turn your education into a career and debunk the myths surrounding non-vocational degrees
There's a belief that some university subjects are essentially worthless compared to others, often labelled as 'Mickey Mouse' degrees. It implies that some programmes - including聽 specific degrees such as golf studies or pop music, as well as more common subjects like drama, sociology, philosophy - are frivolous, lack rigour, and ultimately fail to prepare graduates for the real world. This idea promotes the myth that vocational degrees with clear career paths are superior to more general qualifications. However, the truth is far more complex.
Skills based recruitment
The UK job market is characterised by a high concentration of jobs at both the highest skill levels and those requiring little formal education, with fewer opportunities in between. This 'hourglass' shape highlights the fact that many roles, particularly in business services, place greater value on the skills you've developed during your studies rather than your specific degree subject.
While specialised fields like nursing or engineering demand specific qualifications, a significant portion of graduate jobs are considered 'degree-blind'. This means that employers often prioritise transferable skills such as problem solving, communication, and teamwork over in-depth knowledge of a particular subject. A substantial majority of vacancies in the graduate job market fall under this category.
The value of non-vocational degrees
Concerns have been raised about the potential devaluation of university degrees due to the legitimacy of 'Mickey Mouse' degrees, which may not lead to meaningful employment and can leave students with significant debt. However, it's important to remember that a university education offers much more than just academic knowledge. It fosters personal growth, critical thinking, and a well-rounded perspective, all of which are invaluable assets in the workplace and beyond.
'Recruiters are interested in the whole person. The subject that you studied for your degree is relevant but not necessarily the primary factor. Other things are important too, such as work and general life experience, your communication style and how you articulate your experiences. In other words, you in the round,' explains Chris Rea, graduate careers expert for 蘑菇视频黄片 at Jisc.
UK universities are well aware of the evolving job market and prioritise developing transferable skills in their students. The key for graduates lies in demonstrating how their degree-honed skills are relevant to potential employers. Whether it's the ability to analyse complex data from a science degree or the persuasive communication skills honed in an arts degree, employers are interested in how a degree has prepared a graduate for the workplace. Discover what you can do with your degree.
The notion that there's a single, universally 'valuable' type of degree is flawed. Today's diverse job market demands a range of skills and knowledge. Arts subjects, often criticised for their perceived lack of vocational relevance, are highly valuable in today's job market. They cultivate essential skills in communication, persuasion, and interpersonal interaction. Similarly, science degrees offer transferable skills in data interpretation and analysis, which are highly sought after in various industries. As new technologies and industries emerge, specialised knowledge becomes increasingly valuable. Programmes focused on these areas, even if they seem niche, can be incredibly valuable for preparing graduates for in-demand careers. Explore what skills employers are looking for.
'Have a look at the job vacancies on 蘑菇视频黄片,' advises Chris. 'Most of them do not specify a subject of study. This openness has been a characteristic of the UK graduate job market for as long as I can remember.'
A lifelong learning journey
Success is determined by a multitude of factors, including individual drive, work ethic, and the ability to adapt. Choose a degree that ignites your passion and resonates with you.
'As a recruiter, I have never looked at a candidate's degree subject and thought, that鈥檚 not a proper degree,' explains Chris. 'If it's a degree I haven't come across before, I'm interested to hear about it. If someone has chosen to study a very specific subject, it might well be that they have a real passion for it. If that passion comes across in an interview, great; recruiters love enthusiasm, along with all the other positive factors that make up you as a person and a potential employee.'
The job market is constantly evolving, and a university education provides a foundation for lifelong learning, allowing graduates to adapt and thrive in a changing world. The skills you acquire, regardless of the specific subject, will be invaluable on your professional journey.
Remember, it's not just about what you know, but how you learned and how you apply that knowledge.
Find out more
- Take a look at our guide on how to choose a career.
- Read our graduate's guide to job hunting.
- Discover a career suited to you with our Job Match quiz.