Student-Athletes and the Future of College: Why Your Major and University are More Important Than Ever

As you balance academics and athletics, you’re part of an industry facing its toughest challenges in years. Enrollment is down, costs are up, and for many universities, survival means making tough changes. Your choice of a school and a major is more critical than ever, as colleges adapt to a new reality where a degree no longer guarantees a job.

The world of higher education is at a crossroads. Institutions like Clark University, a small private college with a rich history, are now on the front lines of what some are calling a “higher ed recession.” The factors are a mix of a shrinking pool of traditional-aged students, a drop in international students, and a growing skepticism about the value of a four-year degree. For student-athletes, who are making a significant commitment to both their education and their sport, these trends are particularly important.

The Business of College is Changing

While many people don’t like to think of colleges as businesses, Clark University President David Fithian says they have no choice but to change their business model to survive. Universities are facing a sharp drop in revenue, forcing them to make significant cuts and rethink their programs.

• Financial Strain: Many schools are offering tuition discounts that are “unsustainable,” and they’re facing major financial shortfalls.
• Program Cuts: To adapt, some universities are shrinking their faculty and retooling academic offerings to focus on fields with better job prospects, such as climate, media, and health.
• The Job Market: A new report highlights that the unemployment rate for recent college graduates is now higher than for those with an associate’s degree or no degree at all. This trend is driven by the disappearance of entry-level jobs, many of which are vulnerable to AI.

How This Affects You

As a student-athlete, you’re not just choosing a team; you’re choosing a university that will shape your future. These changes mean you need to be strategic about your decision. Your college degree is a major investment of both time and money, and it needs to pay off.

When you’re looking at schools, consider asking tough questions beyond the athletic program:

• Is my desired major in a growing field? Research the job prospects for your major. Does the university have strong connections to industries and companies that are hiring?
• How is the university adapting to the current economy? Is the school a stable institution? Are they proactively changing their programs to ensure graduates are prepared for the real world?
• Are there opportunities for me to gain practical experience? Seek out internships and hands-on programs that will give you a competitive edge. The jobs that are disappearing are often those that don’t require specialized, practical skills.

The bottom line is that the promise of a college degree is no longer a guarantee of a successful career. Your athletic journey has taught you discipline, resilience, and a competitive edge. Now, you need to apply that same strategic mindset to your academic decisions to ensure your education is a winning investment.