The flexibility of a humanities degree can offer a graduate an abundance of different career paths after they leave school. Career center director Tonya Craft told the Clarion Ledger that that many government agencies, for example, seek humanities graduates because they have so many transferable skills. "They're looking for a certain personality, people who communicate well, are quick learners and think on their feet - effects of liberal arts," she said. Students who pursue a humanities degree learn how to think critically, write well, conduct research, debate issues and present information. Elizabeth Capaldi, executive vice president and university provost at Arizona State University, told the college's newspaper that contrary to what some may think, humanities is widely applicable to the realms of science and technology as well. "The humanities give all our graduates the background and sensibility to interpret and deal with change, including the scientific and technological changes that at the moment get so much attention," she explained. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, over the past year, liberal arts graduates have seen their average starting salary offers rise by 12.9 per cent to reach $35,378 - however, this may vary based on the particular major, location and other factors.  |