An Overview of Humanities Classes: What You Should Know

In recent years, there’s been an emphasis on practical majors like science, technology, math, and business management, and less on more theoretical, creative majors like the humanities. However, these courses are required for most four-year degrees and hold a lot of value in any field.

From communication and writing skills to critical thinking and empathy, find out the benefits of humanities courses as part of your degree program.

What Is Humanities in College?

Humanities in college refers to courses that focus on the study of human culture, thought, and expression. This discipline explores subjects like philosophy, history, literature, art, and languages, teaching not only the subjects themselves but honing critical thinking, cultural awareness, and communication skills.

The benefits of humanities courses are far reaching. They can help you develop analytical abilities and empathy while navigating the complexities of the collective human experience, which could serve you in both your academic and professional careers.

What Courses Are Considered Humanities? 

Common Categories of Humanities Courses

There are several categories that fall under the humanities umbrella, including:

• Literature and language: Courses like English literature, creative writing, and foreign language explore linguistics, storytelling, and cultural narratives.

• Philosophy and ethics: These courses explore the nature of existence, human values, and moral reasoning, which can inform later ethics courses specific to your degree and inspire empathy. 

• History and cultural studies: These courses examine historical events, cultural dynamics, and societal changes that encourage critical thought and proper research techniques.

• Art and music: These courses explore visual arts, performing arts, and music that provide valuable insights into human creativity and aesthetic appreciation.

• Religious studies: These courses delve into global religious traditions to help you understand belief systems and how they influence cultures.

What Classes Are Considered Humanities in General Education? 

Humanities classes are essential components of college curricula and are often part of education requirements. They provide foundational knowledge that can enhance your understanding of human society and communication. Completing these courses can teach you skills that are necessary for academic and professional success.

The gen ed courses that focus on the humanities are typically introductory and may include:

• Introduction to Philosophy

• Introduction to Psychology

• Western Religion

• World Religions

• Introduction to Anthropology

• Art History and Appreciation 

• Music Appreciation

• American Literature

• Introduction to Ethics

• English Composition

• Critical Thinking

• French I

• Spanish I

Introduction to Humanities: A First Step 

An introduction to humanities course lays the foundation for understanding future humanities courses and human expression through art, literature, philosophy, and culture. It focuses on the fundamental question of what it means to be human and how to analyze and interpret different forms of creative and intellectual work. The critical thinking skills gained in an introduction to humanities course can help you develop critical thinking skills and learn to appreciate different perspectives for your future coursework.

Why Is Humanities Important?

Humanities play a vital role in fostering cultural understanding and empathy. When you study humanities, you can gain insights into different societies, cultures, beliefs, and traditions. These courses also promote critical thinking, creativity, and effective communication.

In an increasingly global business world, humanities can help prepare you for your future career. More and more businesses have multifaceted teams with perspectives that intersect, and humanities can provide the tools to engage thoughtfully with your future colleagues. 

The Benefits of Studying Humanities

Academic and Personal Growth

Studying humanities can enhance your communication, writing, and analytical skills. These abilities are essential for academic success and personal development.

Career Advantages 

A background in humanities can help develop adaptability, an important skill in the competitive job market. Employers tend to value candidates who are adaptable and can adapt with business changes to grow with a company. They also tend to value problem-solving abilities, creativity, and interpersonal skills in the workplace, no matter the industry or position.

What Can You Do with a Humanities Degree?

Interested in a humanities degree? Here are some options as a graduate:

Career Paths for Humanities Graduates 

• Education and academic: Humanities grads may enter teaching, research, or academic administration positions.
• Writing, journalism, and publishing: A humanities degree may position you for success in commercial content creation, editing, and publishing roles, or work as a novelist or creative writer.
• Public relations and marketing: Humanities grads may pursue marketing positions like strategic communication, brand management, or public relations.
• Law and government: Depending on the focus of your degree, you could pursue positions in diplomatic services or public policy.
• Arts and entertainment: Humanities degrees can open doors to performing arts or creative production.

Online Courses in Humanities: Flexible Learning Options

Online humanities courses can be an accessible or affordable way to explore humanities topics and get a jump on your degree program. Many platforms offer asynchronous courses in a wide range of gen ed humanities subjects to take the first step and explore your interests.

With a platform like Sophia Learning, you can learn these subjects at your own pace, taking your time with the concepts on your own schedule. 

Experience the Humanities

Humanities education is important for developing a deep understanding of human culture, history, and expression, helping to prepare you for future courses and your career. Sophia’s humanities courses allow you to explore the humanities for personal and professional growth – all online at your own pace. Check out our online humanities courses!