In Nigeria, as in many countries around the world, there exists a wide array of academic disciplines for students to choose from. However, not all courses are created equal when it comes to their relevance in today’s job market and societal needs. While some fields offer promising career prospects and contribute significantly to societal advancement, others may leave graduates struggling to find gainful employment or to make a meaningful impact.
This article highlights the top 20 courses that are often deemed as ‘useless’ in Nigeria and explore the reasons behind their lack of popularity and relevance.
Philosophy:
While the study of philosophy can be intellectually stimulating, its practical applications in the Nigerian job market are limited. Graduates often struggle to find jobs directly related to their field of study, leading to concerns about the employability of philosophy majors.
Religious Studies:
While religious studies can provide valuable insights into different belief systems and cultures, the career prospects for graduates in Nigeria are limited. Without additional qualifications or specialized training, graduates may find it challenging to secure employment in their field.
Fine Arts:
While creativity is highly valued in society, the fine arts field in Nigeria is often perceived as lacking in viable career opportunities. Graduates may struggle to find stable employment or may need to pursue additional training to compete in a competitive market.
Theatre Arts:
Similar to fine arts, theatre arts may offer limited career prospects for graduates in Nigeria. While passion for the performing arts is admirable, the practical realities of finding sustainable employment in this field can be challenging.
Library and Information Science:
With advancements in technology and digital libraries becoming more prevalent, the demand for traditional librarians has decreased. Graduates in this field may find it difficult to secure employment in libraries, particularly in rural areas where resources are limited.
Creative Writing:
While writing skills are valuable in many professions, a degree specifically in creative writing may not offer clear pathways to employment in Nigeria. Graduates may need to explore alternative career paths or pursue additional training to succeed in the writing industry.
Tourism and Hospitality Management:
Despite Nigeria’s vast tourism potential, the industry remains underdeveloped compared to other countries. Graduates in this field may struggle to find employment opportunities that match their qualifications and aspirations.
Agricultural Extension Services:
While agriculture is a vital sector in Nigeria, the demand for agricultural extension services may not be sufficient to absorb all graduates in this field. Limited resources and infrastructure in rural areas further compound the challenges for employment.
Yoruba Language:
While preserving indigenous languages is important for cultural heritage, the practical applications of a Yoruba language degree in the job market may be limited. Graduates may need to explore alternative career paths or pursue additional qualifications to enhance their employability.
Igbo Language:
Similar to Yoruba language studies, graduates with a degree in Igbo language may face challenges in finding employment opportunities directly related to their field of study.
Hausa Language:
Despite the importance of Hausa language and culture in Northern Nigeria, graduates in this field may struggle to find employment opportunities that match their qualifications and aspirations.
Physical Education:
While promoting physical activity and wellness is essential, the career prospects for graduates in physical education may be limited in Nigeria. Graduates may need to explore alternative career paths in sports management or coaching to find meaningful employment.
Music:
While music is a fundamental aspect of Nigerian culture, the music industry can be highly competitive and challenging to break into. Graduates in music may need to supplement their education with practical skills and networking opportunities to succeed in the industry.
Geography:
While geography provides valuable insights into the world’s physical and human landscapes, the career prospects for graduates in Nigeria may be limited. Graduates may need to explore opportunities in related fields such as urban planning or environmental management.
Mass Communication:
Despite the importance of effective communication in society, the mass communication field in Nigeria is oversaturated, leading to intense competition for limited job opportunities. Graduates may need to specialize or pursue further education to stand out in the job market.
Sociology:
While sociology offers valuable insights into social behavior and structures, the practical applications of a sociology degree in Nigeria may be limited. Graduates may need to pursue further education or specialize in a particular area to enhance their career prospects.
Anthropology:
Similar to sociology, anthropology may offer limited career prospects for graduates in Nigeria. Graduates may need to explore opportunities in research, academia, or international development to apply their skills effectively.
Linguistics:
While linguistics provides valuable insights into language structure and diversity, the career prospects for graduates in Nigeria may be limited. Graduates may need to explore opportunities in language teaching, translation, or computational linguistics to find meaningful employment.
History:
While understanding the past is essential for shaping the future, the career prospects for history graduates in Nigeria may be limited. Graduates may need to explore opportunities in education, research, or archival work to apply their skills effectively.
Political Science:
While political science offers valuable insights into political systems and processes, the practical applications of a political science degree in Nigeria may be limited. Graduates may need to pursue further education or specialize in a particular area such as international relations to enhance their career prospects.
In conclusion, while the courses mentioned above may be perceived as ‘useless’ by some, it’s essential to recognize that the value of education extends beyond immediate career prospects. Passion, curiosity, and critical thinking skills developed through these courses can be invaluable assets in any field. However, students should also consider the practical implications of their academic choices and explore opportunities to supplement their education with practical skills and experiences that enhance their employability in the Nigerian job market. Ultimately, the key lies in making informed decisions that align with individual interests, career goals, and societal needs.
