Have you ever heard the claim that studying the humanities is outdated? Critics argue that degrees in the humanities and liberal arts offer little practical value, leading to limited job prospects and obsolete skills. Yet, this misconception couldn’t be further from the truth. These fields cultivate some of the most sought-after professional skills today.
The humanities encompass the study of history, philosophy, religion, modern and ancient languages and literatures, fine and performing arts, and other related fields. Together, these disciplines provide a framework for interpreting humanity and society, facilitating an encounter with life’s most fundamental questions.
As technology advances, we must continue to seek, grapple with, and answer questions about what it means to be human. The humanities provide a strong foundation for this pursuit, forming holistic and well-rounded professionals.
In a time dominated by automation and AI, employers prioritize skills that machines cannot replicate. As companies shift their focus and invest heavily in soft skills development, these abilities are becoming more essential than ever.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, competency in soft skills gives candidates a competitive edge in today’s job market. Employers are increasingly seeking professionals with skills including:
Professionalism or work ethic
Oral and written communication
Teamwork and collaboration skills
Critical thinking or problem-solving skills
A humanities master's program cultivates each of these attributes and more. Humanities graduates stand out for their ability to think deeply, understand diverse perspectives, and communicate effectively. These traits make them industry-ready, indispensable, high-performing employees and leaders.
Humanities graduate students develop sought-after skills by examining what it means to be human and how those answers impact our lives and society. Below are six real-world competencies developed through the rigorous coursework and research in an MA in humanities program.
Humanities students learn to assess complex issues from various perspectives. Whether analyzing historical events, philosophical debates, or literary themes, they refine their ability to critically evaluate information, extract insights from it, and propose creative solutions.
A master’s in humanities cultivates exceptional written and verbal communication abilities. Through essays, presentations, and discussions, students learn to express ideas clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences. Humanities graduates excel at transforming complex ideas into compelling narratives.
In top master's in humanities programs, students immerse themselves in foreign languages, studying native thinkers in their original texts. Through intensive coursework in languages like Greek and Latin, they explore history’s greatest works in their primary context. This approach allows them to uncover insights that can only be gained through direct engagement with the original text.
The humanities encourage exploration and curiosity. By engaging with diverse ideas from history’s greatest works, like the Great Books, students develop their own way of thinking and learn to form opinions independently. In industries that depend on fresh ideas, humanities graduates bring unique perspectives that lead to creative solutions.
Humanities programs often dive into ethics, morality, and societal issues, helping students develop a strong sense of ethical responsibility. Courses in philosophy, political science, and history challenge students to consider the broader implications of decisions and policies. This ethical foundation is crucial in leadership roles, ensuring graduates lead with integrity across sectors.
Humanities graduate students master research methods and analysis, allowing them to synthesize information and draw meaningful conclusions. Professionals with strong research skills excel at identifying trends, interpreting data, and constructing well-supported arguments—core competencies for roles that require in-depth analysis and informed decision-making.
Far from being outdated, a master’s degree in humanities equips graduates with some of the most sought-after skills today. Professionals trained in the humanities excel in a wide range of careers, including:
Education and academia
Public relations and marketing
Nonprofit leadership and community advocacy
Corporate communications and brand strategy
Policy analysis and government work
A quality master’s in humanities, through a rich curriculum, transforms students in the pursuit of wisdom.
The University of Dallas Braniff Graduate School of Arts offers a Master of Arts in Humanities that cultivates these timeless skills—through educating the mind but, above all, enriching the soul. The master’s in humanities program at UDallas includes a variety of concentrations, allowing you to customize your degree to align with your interests, including:
American Studies
Classics
History
Literature
Philosophy
Politics
Theology
Psychology
Download our viewbook to learn more about how the Braniff Graduate School of Liberal Arts equips students with the skills to not only make a living, but to live well.
If you have questions about our MA in humanities program, please request more information or schedule a meeting with an admissions counselor.