AI Has Eliminated Entry-Level Jobs but These Graduate Careers Are Still Flourishing

Core Insights - The labor market is currently slow, with tariffs and the rise of AI impacting hiring capabilities, leading many recent graduates to consider graduate school as a viable option for better job prospects [2][6] - Certain graduate degree programs, particularly in mental health counseling and law, are projected to have high demand and job openings in the coming years, making them attractive for graduates [3][8] Labor Market Conditions - The labor market has been sluggish in adding new workers, with a notable impact on recent college graduates due to the increasing presence of AI in the workforce [2][6] - As of September 2025, the unemployment rate for recent college graduates stands at 5.8%, higher than the overall unemployment rate of 4.1% for all workers [5] Graduate School Trends - Graduate school is becoming a more appealing option for many recent graduates as they face a stagnant job market, with law school admissions reaching the highest levels in over a decade during the 2024-2025 cycle [4][6] - Attending graduate school can lead to higher-paying job opportunities compared to those available to individuals with only a bachelor's degree, while also delaying student loan repayments [7]