Degrees That Are Most at Risk of AI in 2026

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming industries, reshaping the job market, and redefining the value of various educational paths. While AI offers numerous benefits, including automation and improved efficiency, it also poses a significant threat to certain professions and by extension, the degrees that feed into those careers. As we look toward 2026, it’s important for students, professionals, and educators to recognize the degrees that are most at risk of AI in 2026 and make informed decisions.

In this article, we will explore the 10 degrees that are most at risk of AI in 2026, backed by industry trends, expert insights, and technological developments. Whether you are choosing a college major or contemplating a career pivot, understanding which fields are vulnerable can help you stay ahead of the curve.

1. Table of Contents

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   Accounting

Accounting has long been considered a stable career, but it tops the list of degrees that are most at risk of AI in 2026. Automation tools like QuickBooks and AI-powered auditing software are capable of handling everything from data entry to complex tax calculations. While high-level financial strategy may still require human oversight, many routine accounting tasks are being automated, reducing the demand for traditional accounting roles.

2. Data Entry and Administrative Support

Degrees that funnel graduates into data entry and basic administrative roles are quickly becoming obsolete. With AI-powered Optical Character Recognition (OCR), natural language processing, and robotic process automation (RPA), tasks like scheduling, form-filling, and document management are increasingly handled by machines. As a result, this field is clearly one of the degrees that are most at risk of AI in 2026.

3. Paralegal Studies

Legal research, document review, and contract analysis are being taken over by AI tools that can process thousands of documents in seconds. While lawyers still need human judgment, paralegal tasks are particularly susceptible to automation. Thus, Paralegal Studies ranks among the degrees that are most at risk of AI in 2026.

4. Journalism and Content Writing

AI-generated content has advanced significantly, with tools capable of writing news articles, blog posts, and even novels. While human creativity and investigative skills still matter, entry-level writing jobs are at risk. Journalism and content creation degrees are increasingly considered degrees that are most at risk of AI in 2026, especially in roles focused on basic reporting or SEO content.

5. Graphic Design

AI-powered platforms like Canva and Adobe Firefly enable users with no design experience to create professional-quality graphics. Additionally, generative AI tools can create logos, branding kits, and even full marketing campaigns. While creativity still plays a role, traditional graphic design degrees are becoming degrees that are most at risk of AI in 2026 due to the rise of these technologies.

6. Retail Management

With the rise of AI in customer service, inventory management, and data analytics, traditional retail management roles are evolving or disappearing. AI chatbots, automated checkouts, and smart supply chain systems are replacing many responsibilities once held by retail managers. This also makes Retail Management one of the degrees that are most at risk of AI in 2026.

7. Translation and Linguistics

AI translation tools like Google Translate and DeepL have become impressively accurate, reducing the need for human translators in many scenarios. Though human nuance is still essential for high-stakes translation, such as legal or literary work, many entry-level translation jobs are under threat. Consequently, degrees in Translation and Linguistics are degrees that are most at risk of AI in 2026.

8. Human Resources

AI tools can now scan resumes, assess candidate compatibility, and even conduct initial interviews. Although human interaction remains important for sensitive HR tasks, a large portion of the recruitment and onboarding process is already automated. That puts HR degrees squarely on the list of degrees that are most at risk of AI in 2026.

9. Financial Analysis

AI is also to excel at analyzing vast amounts of financial data and predicting market trends, which traditionally required human analysts. Robo-advisors, algorithmic trading platforms, and AI-based portfolio management tools are becoming more mainstream. This evolution also places Financial Analysis among the degrees that are most at risk of AI in 2026, especially at the junior level.

10. Library and Information Science

With AI-driven cataloging, research tools, and digital archiving, the traditional role of librarians is diminishing. While the profession is adapting, the core skills taught in many Library Science programs are being replaced by AI systems, making it one of the degrees that are most at risk of AI in 2026.

Hence, AI is not just a buzzword, it’s a disruptive force that is actively reshaping the workforce. The degrees that are most at risk of AI in 2026 are primarily those focused on repetitive, rule-based, or data-heavy tasks that can be efficiently automated. However, this doesn’t mean students and professionals in these fields are doomed. Instead, it highlights the need for continuous learning, adaptability, and the integration of human-centric skills like creativity, empathy, and critical thinking. Students entering college or mid-career professionals considering retraining should aim to combine technical proficiency with soft skills that AI cannot replicate. Even within at-risk degrees, those who can adapt and specialize will remain valuable in the changing job market.

Other than Degrees That Are Most at Risk of AI in 2026, you can also read How AI-Powered Search Platforms Are Revolutionizing Enterprise Search

FAQs

1. Should I avoid choosing one of these degrees?

Not necessarily. While these degrees may lead to jobs that are changing or being automated, you can still succeed by specializing in areas that require human judgment, creativity, or strategic thinking. Consider combining your degree with tech skills or focusing on roles less susceptible to automation.

2. How can I future-proof my career in 2026?

Upskilling is key. Learn to work alongside AI tools rather than compete with them. Take courses in data literacy, digital tools, or leadership. Focus on roles that involve managing AI systems, interpreting their output, or dealing with human clients.

3. What degrees are safer from AI disruption in 2026?

Degrees in healthcare like nursing or mental health counseling, education, AI ethics, and skilled trades are currently less susceptible to automation. These careers also require human empathy, physical presence, and nuanced decision-making areas where AI still falls short.