I wouldn't necessary call it a waste of time, it's what you make out of it. The problem with modern education are the people who sign up for it. Some people just like to learn while disregarding financial matters. If you don't have the money to take these classes for fun, then it's perfectly fine not taking them. Just don't be quick to dismiss philosophy, history, or economic classes as a waste of time. (I'm using these as examples because of things I learned) You can learn so much fascinating things in random classes that can apply to your every day life. It all about your attitude and what you make of it. Of course a professor can make or break the class as well.
Naysayers that say it won't help you in the real world have never sat in a well taught classroom with an open mind, or had the thirst of knowledge. Money isn't everything, we just live in a materialistic society and society isn't always right.