Top 7 Careers for Liberal Arts Degree Majors

When most people think of liberal arts, English and philosophy majors typically come to mind, but liberal arts, also often called humanities, is a broad term that can encompass a range of studies from English to economics. These degrees may include the study of history, writing, literature, sociology, psychology, creative arts, and so much more.

For this reason, a liberal arts degree usually implies that a graduate is well rounded with strong writing, critical thinking, and research skills. A degree in liberal arts can actually be a very strong degree choice because it opens the door for hundreds of career options when you graduate, from STEM to business and beyond.

If you’re starting to consider liberal arts careers, there are a number of options that can be fulfilling for you. Here are some careers for liberal arts majors worth considering.

1. Teacher

As a teacher you’ll get to share your passion with others, whether that’s with elementary, middle, or high school students. With additional training, most liberal arts degrees can lead to a future in teaching, and earning an advanced degree means you could teach at the collegiate level.

2. Translator

That year abroad may come in handy if you have an interest in language. Translators can work anywhere from courtrooms to hospitals and even from home. Translating may take place in written form or in person, so you have plenty of options for the type of environment you want to work in. While a bachelor’s degree is important in this field, language fluency is the most important factor in landing a job as a translator.

3. Human Resources

If you like working with people, human resources could be a great career pursuit for you. Companies are always looking for talented people who can manage anything thrown their way. Those in HR recruit, interview, and place employees for companies. They can also manage employee relations like payroll and benefits, and make sure company policies are upheld.  

4. Politics

While you may not see yourself as a future politician, there are a number of careers in politics that you could pursue like speechwriter or lobbyist. Many students in liberal arts have a passion for helping people and if this is the case for you, a liberal arts degree could put you in a position to be well suited for a future in the political sphere.

5. Paralegal

Paralegals conduct research, organize files, and write documents to help lawyers. While a certificate in paralegal studies is sometimes needed, it isn’t always required. If you have an interest in law, liberal arts degrees also lend themselves well to further studies, so a degree in law is a possibility if you’re willing to go back to school.

6. Public Relations

A career in public relations requires strong communication skills, with which liberal arts majors are often well equipped. In PR, you work to get media coverage on your clients, helping them to promote their brand.

7. Marketing

Your ability to innovate will be key in a career in marketing. As a marketing manager you’ll work to create campaigns to promote your client’s services. You’ll also have to work with creatives like graphic designers, copywriters, etc., to help develop effective campaigns.

If you’re worried about what careers for liberal arts majors you can pursue, you can rest easy knowing that there are plenty of options for you to explore. You already have a strong basis of soft skills that will make employers eager to hire you.