A recent letter published today, 5 October 2026, in a national newspaper reflects on the value of degrees often dismissed as 'Mickey Mouse' qualifications. Bill Gabbett, from Newham, London, shared his experiences teaching media, communications, and cultural studies over three decades.
Gabbett noted that he became accustomed to these subjects being labelled as 'Mickey Mouse degrees'. He highlighted that Mickey Mouse is among the global top 10 recognised images and the Walt Disney Corporation is valued in billions.
He also observed that his students in these fields appeared disinclined to cause economic damage, treat people impersonally, or engage in exploitation.