Humanities

Many students while in middle school and high school begin to favor some classes. Typically, you either lean towards math and science, or you prefer history and language arts. If you are more prone to enjoy the latter, you prefer the humanities. A degree in the humanities covers a broad range of topics. Students take a multidisciplinary approach and may study languages, art, history, religion, and music. Studying the humanities allows you to make connections between many subjects, and you learn to communicate effectively and think critically.

 

This is a diverse field with opportunities to pursue a career in many fields such as education, public service or business.

 

Religion and Theology

Theology programs typically examine religion through the lens of faith. And, religious studies programs analyze religion through sociological and cultural lenses.  You would learn about all types of religions, such as Islam, Judaism, and Christianity. Studying theology and religion allows you to explore how religious beliefs and practices shape and influence the world we live in. Theology students will develop a more holistic view of the human experience in light of God, church, the scriptures, and history to inform their life and work. Since theology and religious degrees are versatile, you can become a teacher, counselor, church administrator, minister to name a few.

 

History and Archaeology

These two disciplines relate in so many ways because they both deal with the past. Those who study History focus on the past mostly through the written word. People who choose to study archaeology typically focus on the past by analyzing material objects. Despite their similarities with studying the past, these two majors are often separated when you choose your major.

 

History majors research historical documents and connections between events. Studying history can help you understand the world as it is today and predict changes in the world before they occur. Those who study history often say their degrees allow them to learn about the lives of people in the past, and it also helps them gain a deeper understanding of human behavior and societal trends. In addition to teaching history or a career as a professional historian, history majors could have careers in law, public service, publishing, journalism, film, theater, clergy, administration, and really anything which requires critical thinking, research, and effective verbal and writing skills.

 

Archaeologists tend to focus on early history before events were written down. However, before becoming an archaeologist, you typically acquire a bachelor’s degree in anthropology, history or geography before focusing your studies in archaeology. But, you can begin gaining some experience since many archaeology undergraduate programs give students hands-on experience through laboratory classes and fieldwork programs.

 

Philosophy and Ethics

The term ethics refers to the philosophical study of moral right and wrong and moral good and bad. So, philosophy and ethics are closely related. Some believe that the study of philosophy is based on ethics, and others believe the study of ethics is grounded in philosophy.

 

Have you ever heard people wonder about the meaning of life? The study of philosophy helps to answer that question. Philosophy encourages critical thinking and explores the nature of human beings and the reality in which they live. Some careers related to philosophy include law, business, banking, communications, civil service and science. Philosophy provides an excellent preparation for law school and other professional programs, as well as a solid foundation for a career in business, teaching, writing, or public service. Additionally, graduates can find opportunities in cultural and political institutions, analytical and communication agencies, media departments of public relations as well as managerial positions.

 

You may be more interested in ethics which can increase your insight into pressing ethical and social issues. You could help to advance issues with health and social justice, pursue law and policy in the interest of the public, empower and educate young people, or make changes through public service and non-profits.