Six More Degrees That Are Likely To Be Future-Proof

Factors such as artificial intelligence and automation have streamlined many jobs and, in some cases, made them obsolete. However, there are still a few career paths with a relatively high probability of being very adaptive to future trends. Of course, there are never any guarantees, and with the rate of new advances, it's impossible to predict what new career paths might open up in the future as others fade into obscurity. Degrees in healthcare, public relations, education, law, psychiatry, and business are considered to be safe bets, but they are not the only options. The following degrees are also likely to be a safe bet for students who want to have the skills needed to thrive in possible future scenarios.

Engineering

Engineering is a broad field with numerous degree options and plenty of demand for graduates. Civil engineers tend to be the most in-demand, but there is also a need for mechanical engineers, industrial engineers, and electrical engineers around the world. Engineers play a pivotal role in the creation of various structures and objects that are essential and will likely remain so in the future. Engineering also tends to be a career field with competitive salaries, making it a great choice for students who want job security, financial stability, and skills that can be used anywhere in the world. 

Beauty and Personal Care

The beauty and personal care industry has always been popular, but with the rise of social media platforms, there has been a greater need than ever before for people to look their best. While most courses in beauty and personal care are certificates and diplomas, there are also a few degree options available. These include associate degrees in cosmetology, bachelor's degrees in cosmetology business management, associate degrees in esthetics, and more. Degree programs for spa and wellness center management also exist in the hospitality sector. Careers in beauty and personal care are likely to remain popular as people strive to look their best in social media posts, photos, and videos.

Information Technology

Information technology is one of the sectors with the most rapid advances and drastic changes. However, with a degree in the field of information technology, you can learn the fundamentals, which gives you a headstart for learning any future technologies that become indispensable. Unlike many other career paths, information technology requires constant learning and a willingness to pivot with changes. It requires commitment and dedication, but the rewards can be great for those who are able to stay on top of the latest trends. Artificial intelligence and machine learning are two popular areas of study in the information technology sector, but programming, cybersecurity, and software development are useful, too.

Environmental Science

Environmental science and sustainability are two sectors that will likely remain important as long as humanity continues to impact its surroundings. A greater awareness of the devastation caused by the indiscriminate use of renewable and non-renewable sources has put sustainability at the forefront of many initiatives. In addition, overdevelopment and the dumping of waste have caused numerous ecological disasters around the world. A degree in environmental science or sustainability can prepare students to embark on multiple career paths ranging from research to conservation, management, consulting, and more. With numerous projects and initiatives launched by governments across the world, students who work in this field can choose where they want to make their mark. 

Hospitality and Tourism Management

Some of the most future-proof degrees are the ones that provide you with skills and training that can be used anywhere in the world. Hospitality and tourism management degrees fall into this category as they cover much of the same ground as a business management degree but also provide students with vital soft skills. These skills can be helpful in a highly diverse and dynamic range of career paths in the travel and hospitality industry. Almost all countries depend on the tourism industry, which means there are plenty of opportunities for students to find their niche. 

Exercise and Fitness

Applications can help people stick to their fitness goals, but people will always do better with other humans in the exercise and fitness industry, keeping them accountable. More and more people are realizing the importance of keeping fit and healthy from a young age to avoid problems later in life. Students who earn a degree in this field are equipped to help others understand and improve their health. It is also a great starting point for any career that may involve human movement, physical activities, exercising, athletic training, therapy, and more. In addition, there will always be sports teams that require people with exercise science degrees to work for them. 

Conclusion

While the degrees listed above are well-positioned for long-term relevance, students should not let fears of the future limit their choices. The great thing about most careers is that they teach you transferable skills that are valuable for a range of jobs. The ease of online learning also makes it possible to switch career trajectories in the future if new opportunities arise or old avenues become less viable.