Humanities Degrees: Education and Career Paths

What are the Humanities?

The humanities are fields of study that focus on understanding human culture, history, and expression. When you explore subjects like literature, philosophy, history, and the arts, you gain a deeper appreciation for how people think, create, and connect across time and places. These degrees build skills in critical thinking, communication, and analysis, making you more versatile in both personal and professional settings.

With a humanities degree, you can develop your ability to analyze complex ideas, express yourself clearly, and understand diverse perspectives. This foundation can open doors to careers in education, writing, public service, and many other fields where creative and analytical thinking are highly valued.

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Humanities Degrees by Level

Humanities degrees are available at various levels, each offering unique career opportunities based on the depth of knowledge and skills you acquire.

Associate’s in Humanities

An associate’s degree in humanities provides a solid foundation in critical thinking, communication, and cultural awareness. While entry-level roles may be more limited, this degree can help you get started in various fields or serve as a stepping stone toward a bachelor’s degree.

• Entry-level jobs: Administrative assistant, sales associate, customer service representative
• Minimum degree for: Paraprofessional roles in education, clerical work, and support positions

Bachelor’s in Humanities

A bachelor’s degree in humanities opens the door to more specialized roles. You’ll develop strong analytical, writing, and research skills that are valuable in diverse fields like communications, education, and public relations.

• Entry-level jobs: Content writer, teacher (with certification), public relations specialist, marketing coordinator
• Minimum degree for: Non-profit roles, media and communication positions, teaching (with additional certification)

Master’s in Humanities

A master’s degree in humanities deepens your expertise in specific areas, like history, philosophy, or cultural studies. This level prepares you for leadership roles, advanced research, and specialized positions in academia, non-profits, and more.

• Careers: College instructor, policy analyst, museum curator, communications director
• Minimum degree for: Advanced positions in education, research roles, and higher-level nonprofit or cultural sector jobs

Doctorate in Humanities

A doctorate in humanities is geared toward those seeking top-level academic, research, or leadership roles. You’ll become an expert in your field and be prepared for careers in higher education or specialized consultancy.

• Careers: University professor, researcher, cultural consultant, senior policy advisor
• Minimum degree for: Tenured professor roles, high-level research positions, and leadership roles in cultural institutions

Humanities Degrees by Subject

When you pursue a humanities degree, you can choose from a variety of specialized subjects. Each one offers unique perspectives and skills that can shape your future career. Here’s a closer look at the most common humanities subjects:

English

An English degree provides a deep understanding of literature, language, and writing. You’ll learn how to analyze texts, construct well-argued critiques, and communicate effectively. Careers for English majors are diverse and include roles like editor, content writer, teacher, and public relations specialist. This degree is also a strong foundation for advanced studies in law or communications, where analytical and communication skills are critical. If you enjoy reading, writing, and critical thinking, an English degree can open doors to various professional opportunities where language is a key component.

History

A history degree helps you explore significant past events and their relevance to the present. You’ll gain strong research, analytical, and writing skills by interpreting historical documents and studying different eras. History graduates often find roles in education, museum curation, archiving, and public policy. This degree is also beneficial if you’re considering law school or pursuing careers in government or non-profit organizations. A history degree enables you to understand complex issues and craft compelling narratives, making it a valuable asset in fields that rely on critical analysis and contextual understanding.

Liberal Arts

A liberal arts degree encompasses a broad range of disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. You’ll develop strong critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills, making you a well-rounded candidate for various industries. Careers in management, marketing, public relations, and education often seek candidates with this diverse educational background. A liberal arts degree is also excellent preparation for graduate programs, providing flexibility and foundational knowledge in many areas. If you prefer a well-rounded education that doesn’t limit you to a single field, a liberal arts degree can offer broad career prospects.

Philosophy

A philosophy degree encourages you to think deeply about fundamental questions of existence, ethics, and logic. You’ll develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills through the study of argumentation and reasoning. Careers in law, public policy, and ethics often look for candidates with a philosophy background due to the emphasis on critical thinking and structured debate. A philosophy degree also positions you well for advanced academic study or consultancy roles in ethics and policy. If you enjoy tackling complex theoretical issues and learning to present well-reasoned arguments, this degree can be a strong fit.

Frequently Asked Questions about Humanities Degrees

What can you do with a humanities degree?

A humanities degree opens the door to a wide range of career paths. You can work in fields like education, writing, marketing, public relations, and non-profits. Your skills in critical thinking, communication, and cultural understanding make you valuable in roles that require analyzing complex ideas and connecting with diverse audiences.

Some common careers include content writer, teacher, communications specialist, and museum curator, depending on your degree level.

Is a humanities degree worth it?

A humanities degree is worth it if you’re looking to develop versatile, in-demand skills like problem-solving, creativity, and effective communication. These abilities are essential in many industries and can make you more adaptable in a rapidly changing job market.

Whether you’re interested in pursuing a career in media, education, or the non-profit sector, a humanities degree can provide a solid foundation for a variety of fulfilling career paths.