Develop Your Skills with a Liberal Arts Degree

What do we mean by ‘liberal arts?’ It’s a term that covers a variety of degree subjects that are not specific. In other words, a liberal arts degree is not an academic qualification but rather one that gives the student a well-rounded education.

Many students who pursue a liberal arts degree study program do so with no set career direction or are undecided on a few possibilities. This is opposed to those who set out to study law, for example, or accountancy, intending to pursue a career in those sectors.

This type of degree may major in English or an area of the arts. It will appeal to creative people who may wish to follow a career in the arts once qualified. What roles can you be considered for with a liberal arts degree?

Will a Liberal Arts Degree Help Me Get a Job?

The answer to the above is yes, and there are many reasons. The way businesses operate has changed considerably in recent years. The traditional ‘pyramid’ structure – with a big boss, upper management, and middle, filtering down to the lower paid – rapidly creates a flatter, more spread-out structure.

For example, we see this in software development where the ‘agile’ structure is now the norm. This involves removing the strict roles previously applied to encourage ideas and free thinking. As the liberal arts student has been tutored in free and critical thinking, they are the perfect choice for roles in such a business.

Let’s say you major in history. You will find that political organizations are looking for your skills, as understanding the past helps you problem-solve for the future. Philosophy majors will have skills in rational thinking and be adept at debating a problem and finding the right solution. Those who major in the arts – music, fine art, any area of art – have the creative ability that will be attractive to a wide range of employers.

What level of degree do you need to study when choosing liberal arts?

Studying for a Liberal Arts Degree

There are many options when it comes to a liberal arts degree. First, there is the associate's degree. This two-year study program gives you a broad education and can be studied at a junior or community college. This saves money and is a sensible choice if you are undecided about a career path.

The next step is a bachelor’s degree. Usually, a four-year course, although sometimes three, can be taken as a full course, or you can convert your associate's degree with a further two-year study program. You may then wish to continue and study for a master’s, which opens the way to higher-paying roles.

Finally, you might aim for a doctorate, a Ph.D., for example, which will get you into the best research jobs.

Whatever you choose – and be aware that you can study online and at a university – a liberal arts degree is a good step towards a bright future.