Master’s degrees hiring at one of its worst levels in 20 years: ‘Been a bit tough’
Hiring for master's degree holders is at one of its lowest levels in two decades, with many employers prioritizing skills over advanced education. Unemployment rates for those under 35 with master's degrees are nearing highs not seen since the 2008 recession. A significant percentage of employers are not planning to hire master's graduates this year, reflecting a shift in hiring practices influenced by the rise of AI.
- ▪Over 40% of employers do not plan to hire master's degree holders this year, up from 28.6% in 2025.
- ▪Unemployment for under-35 master's degree holders is at some of its highest levels since 2003.
- ▪The number of master's programs has increased by 69% since 2005, leading to more graduates competing for fewer jobs.
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US News Master’s degrees hiring at one of its worst levels in 20 years: ‘Been a bit tough’ By Alex Oliveira Published May 21, 2026, 3:42 p.m. ET See more of our coverage in your search results. Add The New York Post on Google Master’s degrees are leading to fewer jobs, with businesses increasingly uninterested in advanced education. Unemployment for under-35 master’s holders is near 2008/2020 highs, per Burning Glass Institute. Over 40% of employers won’t hire master’s holders this year, prioritizing skills over diplomas. Master’s degrees are yielding fewer jobs than almost any time in the last two decades — with some businesses even admitting they’re increasingly uninterested in hiring candidates with advanced education.
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