Pros and Cons of Pursuing Humanities vs. Commerce or Science: A Comprehensive Analysis

Choosing a major in college can significantly impact one's future career trajectory, personal development, and overall quality of life. This article explores the advantages and disadvantages of pursuing a degree in humanities, as well as the alternatives of commerce and science. We will discuss the skills, career prospects, and life satisfaction associated with each path, providing a well-rounded comparison to assist you in making an informed decision.

Communicative Skills and Subject Heterogeneity

Students pursuing humanities often find themselves engaging in numerous writing assignments and seminar discussions. This consistent exposure can significantly enhance their communication skills, which are crucial in various professional contexts. Consequently, individuals with a humanities background are often better equipped to articulate complex ideas clearly and engage in critical discourse.

On the other hand, science and commerce majors might not receive the same level of written and verbal communication training. While science can include lab reports and research papers, the focus is often more on practical experimentation rather than extensive written expression. Similarly, commerce majors may engage in presentations and case studies but might not delve as deeply into extensive written or verbal communication during their studies.

Engagement with History, Philosophy, and Literature

For those with a passion for history, philosophy, literature, and the arts, humanities can be an ideal choice. These subjects offer rich, immersive studies that can be deeply meaningful and intellectually stimulating. Since students often enjoy these subjects, the learning experience can be more engaging and fulfilling.

However, the potential downside is that starting salaries in the humanities might be lower compared to other disciplines. This could impact financial stability early in a career, particularly if the chosen path does not immediately lead to a well-paying job. Nonetheless, the communication skills gained through humanities studies can contribute to higher earning potential in the long run, as these skills are in high demand across various industries.

Diversity of Skills and Career Opportunities

A memorable experience highlighted the importance of diverse skill sets in a professional setting. The recipient of a professional sports team’s season tickets mentioned that their marketing department, comprising five individuals, only included one with a business degree. The remaining four held degrees in philosophy, history, and music. This example illustrates the value of employing individuals with a variety of backgrounds and skills, which can foster creativity and innovation. Avoiding specialization solely to secure a higher salary can be shortsighted; one should seek a job that offers a balanced mix of financial compensation and personal fulfillment.

Moreover, students should consider developing additional skills during their academic breaks, such as working in manufacturing, construction, or business. This can help broaden their perspective and prepare them for a more diverse career path.

Real-World Application and Career Fulfillment in Humanities, Science, and Commerce

From my dual perspective as someone with degrees in both science and humanities, I believe a balanced knowledge of both disciplines leads to a more rounded and fulfilling life. This is especially true in the research environment, where an understanding of the origins and history of a subject can provide a deeper appreciation for its current relevance.

While humanities may offer more immediate and personal gratification in terms of academic achievements, science and commerce can provide a structured path to high-paying careers. However, the financial aspect should not be the only consideration. A fulfilling career is one that aligns with one's interests and values rather than solely the salary offer.

Academically, those pursuing sciences and engineering may face challenges in terms of time management and verification of work, given the complexity and precision required in these fields. Humanities, on the other hand, are generally perceived as having a more relaxed and less stringent academic environment, which can be particularly appealing to individuals who prioritize intellectual exploration over strict academic demands.

Research and Academic Pursuits in Humanities and Science

This article is written with a specific focus on research and academic fields. While the insights provided may not be directly applicable to all career paths, it is particularly relevant for students and professionals in these domains. As someone who switched from studying science to pursuing a PhD in library and information science, I can confidently share the following observations:

Enjoyment in Research: Research in the humanities is often more enjoyable and rewarding. The work environment and pressure in humanities allow for a greater sense of accomplishment as one's hard work can be more quickly recognized and appreciated. Supportive Professors: Humanities professors are generally more understanding and accommodating, making it easier to pursue more personalized research goals. Science professors, while dedicated, may be more focused on their own research and less available to discuss individual student projects. Publication Opportunities: Research in humanities offers more opportunities for newbie researchers to publish as single or first authors. This is due to the less competitive job market and the variety of opportunities available after obtaining a PhD. Diverse Career Paths: A humanities degree opens up a wider range of career opportunities beyond traditional academic roles. For instance, a humanities graduate can transition to roles like librarian, information analyst, archivist, and digital curator. In contrast, science graduates often face more limited options, primarily focused on full-time research or industry roles.

While both sciences and humanities contribute to the production of new knowledge, the cultural perception of science may sometimes view humanities as less valuable or less prestigious, which can affect career prospects. However, the true value of humanities lies in its ability to provide a broad, interdisciplinary understanding of the world, making it a valuable asset in any professional pursuit.