Humanities Degree & Career Guide

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What Are the Humanities?

The humanities are a multidisciplinary field that involves the study of human culture and the human experience. Students may earn a bachelor of arts in humanities subjects, including history, religion, philosophy, literature, and cultural studies.

They may also major in art history or languages. Any of these majors require students to think critically and produce their own interpretations.

This guide explores what the humanities are and the careers you can pursue with a humanities degree.

Featured Posts on Humanities

The Value of a Liberal Arts Education

The Value of a Liberal Arts Education

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What Can You Do With an English Degree?

What Can You Do With an English Degree?

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Should You Study a Foreign Language in College?

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Humanities in the Classroom and Workplace

As a humanities major, students spend a lot of time researching, reading, writing, working through abstract scenarios, and learning to defend their thoughts. This type of education typically appeals to people with creativity, curiosity, and an appreciation for diverse perspectives and interpretations.

The humanities also teach the soft skills that today’s top employers value. LinkedIn’s list of the top five soft skills requested by employers in 2020 included adaptability, collaboration, creativity, emotional intelligence, and persuasion. These, in addition to critical thinking and communication, are the skills developed as a humanities major.

The following demonstrates three of the many possible career paths for graduates with a humanities degree.

Writers and Authors

Writers and authors create content for various media, including magazines, books, screenplays, blogs, and newspapers. These professionals work in almost every industry, such as business, tech, education, and marketing. Many writers work as freelancers and may pursue roles as copywriters, novelists, speechwriters, and biographers. Writers typically need a bachelor’s degree.

Median Salary:$69,510

Museum Curator

Curators oversee museum displays. They may authenticate artifacts and research the collections. Some curators create educational programs and conduct tours. Additional duties include acquiring and recording items, planning budgets, and negotiating loan terms. These professionals typically need a master’s degree.

Median Salary:$60,110

Policy Analyst

Policy analysts research problems and recommend solutions. They may write policies and programs based on research and evaluate their effectiveness when instituted. These professionals often work for government agencies and private organizations like think tanks. Some positions require a master’s or doctoral degree.

Median Salary:$60,880

Frequently Asked Questions About Humanities

For students who enjoy exploring the human experience through its history, culture, and belief systems, a humanities major may offer an education that propels them into a rewarding career. A study commissioned by the American Academy of Arts & Sciences Humanities Indicators found that almost 85% of graduates with a bachelor’s degree in the humanities reported job satisfaction in 2019.

Students may major in humanities or one of its disciplines, including English, philosophy, history, or foreign languages. Choosing a humanities degree that reflects their interests can help qualify students for positions well-suited to their career goals. Learn more about the best online liberal arts programs.

All Things Humanities

Best Online Accelerated English Degree Programs

Best Online Accelerated English Degree Programs

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by Thomas Broderick

Updated May 4, 2023

Best Accelerated Political Science Online Degree Programs

Best Accelerated Political Science Online Degree Programs

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Updated September 11, 2024

Most Affordable Online Humanities Degree Programs

Most Affordable Online Humanities Degree Programs

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Fastest Online Humanities Degree Programs

Fastest Online Humanities Degree Programs

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Best Master’s in Geography Programs

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Best Master’s in Philosophy Programs

Best Master’s in Philosophy Programs

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by Reese Lopez

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Most Popular Online Humanities Degree Programs

Most Popular Online Humanities Degree Programs

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by Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Best Online Master’s in Library Science Degrees of 2024

Best Online Master’s in Library Science Degrees of 2024

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Updated September 4, 2024

Best Online Associate in Art History Programs

Best Online Associate in Art History Programs

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by Staff Writers

Updated May 8, 2024

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