In recent decades, we have seen a huge proliferation of academic programs. Is that a good thing?

In today’s Martin Center article, GMU grad student Steven Zhou ponders that question and thinks that the answer is largely “no.”

Zhou writes, “Especially in the humanities, there is an increasing number of PhDs but a decreasing number of tenure-track faculty positions available. The trend is even apparent in STEM, where there are likewise “too many PhDs, too few research positions.” It does no good to have a plethora of options for a student interested in graduate school if there’s little to no chance of that program landing them a job after graduation. The result of this imbalance in supply and demand is the recent trend of PhD graduates finding jobs outside of academia — which, to be clear, is a commendable and smart move given the lack of academic jobs. However, the reality is that one does not need a PhD for most jobs outside of academia (other than some research-intensive positions), and thus students often find themselves in situations where their formal education of four to six years did not prepare them for a non-academic job.”

Indeed so. As I have been arguing for years, we have oversold higher education, causing a great many people who don’t really want advanced study to pursue college and grad school simply because it seemed necessary to get some academic credentials.

Zhou observes that many grad programs lure students in with claims that their degrees will prepare them for the world of work. Often, however, they don’t. Colleges and universities take student money and then leave them on their own.

He concludes, “As a PhD student, I am far from being in a position where I can influence the creation and quality control of academic programs and journals. But I implore those who are to consider the potential negative impacts of creating endless new choices. For program directors and accreditors, ensure that students are not taken advantage of and are equipped with the necessary skills and experiences to succeed in their chosen career fields.”