The humanities are an often misunderstood group of majors. Because non-humanities degrees like nursing and business, for example, seem to have a more clear post-collegiate track, some may think that after earning a humanities degree options are vague and few. The truth is, however, that a humanities degree is a fantastic way to enrich your mind and prepare for the workforce.
Bethel Professor of Philosophy Sara Shady offered some insight on the value of studying the humanities—and how it can prepare you for your career. Here are five things she said:
1. The options are endless
The term “humanities” in an academic sense refers to the study of people, culture, and society. Common humanities majors include history, political science, philosophy, journalism, English, and biblical and theological studies. The scope of these disciplines teaches you about so much more than what they’re titled; humanities majors learn about all types of people and can be prepared to serve and work with peers of all kinds. At Bethel, every major is stewarded by passionate, experienced professors who care deeply about your academic career and can help set you up to succeed in whatever field you choose.
2. The humanities help prepare you for every career
While some may think a humanities major limits the number of jobs you may be able to pursue, the opposite is true. Since the disciplines are less career-specific, they open up more options to explore than one degree may allow you. You don’t have to be confined by what your major is titled; in fact, the skills of critical thinking, clear writing, creative problem solving, and literacy create empathetic and exceptional communicators ready for any job. The humanities help engage a well-rounded person, not just a well-rounded student.
3. You’ll stand out to employers
A humanities major helps you look more interesting to prospective employers. Businesses value people who apply themselves with passion—and rigorous study in a field like the humanities demonstrates this. Plus, a humanities major can supplement any degree by double majoring, which sets you apart from other competition in the workforce. Often humanities majors require fewer credits than career-specific majors, so you can often add them without significantly altering your semesters.
4. Pursue your passion, apply it anywhere
Many universities like Bethel focus on an applied study of the humanities, where majors are tailored for people entering every type of vocation. The study of a humanities discipline you’re passionate about, alongside supportive and engaging professors, will help you apply yourself and see the world with a diverse and equitable lens, empowering you to support your community with compassion and understanding. The studies of humanities are more than just the content of old books—they are a way to inform the way you live with others.
5. Integrate your faith and career
Many colleges, including Bethel, teach the humanities first through a faith-based lens. We believe that a well-equipped mind in Christ sets our students apart and gives them the tools to glorify God wherever their career path takes them. No question or perspective, though, is off the table. We encourage deep intellectual inquiry and create spaces for students in any stage of faith to wrestle with important questions and grow throughout their academic careers and beyond.
Bethel University offers a diverse range of humanities majors and minors. In any major you choose, you will be connected with professors who care about your career path and setting you up for success. If you’re ready to pursue your passions in a rigorous and caring environment, Bethel offers degrees in history, political science, philosophy, journalism, English, and biblical and theological studies.
