The top 7 worst-paying college majors in America revealed — with median early-career salaries as low as $40,000/year. Are you getting an awful return on your big investment?

Here are the seven worst-paying college degrees as per their median early-career wages.

Do they cost more than they’re worth?

1. Foreign language (median salary: $40,000)

Mastering a foreign language may be a useful life skill, but it isn’t likely to be a lucrative one. The median early-career wage for foreign language degree holders is just $40,000 and the underemployment rate is a whopping 51.1%.

However, if you can combine your foreign language skills with other skills, you could land a relatively lucrative career as a foreign exchange trader, sommelier, diplomat or court interpreter, according to Indeed. Foreign diplomats can earn six-figure salaries.

2. General social sciences (median salary: $41,000)

Roughly 54.1% of graduates whose major was General social sciences are underemployed, according to the Fed.

Students are taught critical thinking and research skills in this multidisciplinary program, and they can usually choose concentrations.

Combining a versatile bachelor's degree like this with a law degree is one way to boost your earning potential.

3. Performing arts (median salary: $41,900)

A degree in performing arts could be highly satisfying and enjoyable if you’re naturally artistic. However, having your talent recognized and monetizing art is as difficult as ever, which means your performing arts degree isn’t likely to lead to a fortune.

According to the Fed, graduates with a major in performing arts earn a median salary of $41,900 at the start of their career and the underemployment rate is a staggering 62.3%.