Young Graduates Struggle Whether They Majored in Engineering or Philosophy

For young Americans trying to make their way in a tough economy, getting a skill that’s in-demand will help — but it’s no guarantee of a steady job.

The Wall Street Journal over the weekend reported on the struggles of America’s young adults, who are coming of age in the worst economy since the Great Depression. Five years after the financial crisis, the unemployment rate for Americans under 25 is 15.6%. Those lucky enough to have jobs have seen their inflation-adjusted wages fall, and many are stuck working part-time.

Today we’re sharing some of the latest higher-ed statistics that you might find surprising:

1. While 347,985 students earned business degrees in 2009, only 15,496 grads walked away with a degree in mathematics. I find that sad.

2. One of the fastest growing degrees is in park, recreation, leisure, and fitness studies. During a 10-year period, the number of students earning degrees in this major (31,667) jumped 92 percent.