Once considered a stream with limited professional scope, Arts and Humanities at the senior secondary level are now opening up an expansive array of career pathways. The perception that only Science or Commerce students enjoy diverse career options is gradually changing as students explore unconventional and interdisciplinary avenues.
The Shift in Perception
Historically, Arts and Humanities were seen as fallback options. Today, they are valued for developing critical thinking, creativity, communication, and cultural understanding. While traditional courses like Bachelor of Arts (BA) remain popular, students now have access to a range of specialised undergraduate programmes with industry relevance.
Emerging Degree Options and Careers
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)
Careers: Graphic Designer, Illustrator, Animator, Art Director, Photographer
Bachelor of Journalism and Mass Communication (BJMC)
Careers: Journalist, Reporter, News Editor, Scriptwriter, PR Specialist
Bachelor of Design (B.Des.)
Careers: Fashion Designer, UX Designer, Visual Merchandiser
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
Careers: Social Worker, Policy Analyst, Youth Worker
Bachelor of Library Science (B.Lib.Sc.)
Careers: Librarian, Archivist, Knowledge Manager
Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.)
Careers: Teacher, Curriculum Developer, Education Consultant
Bachelor of Philosophy (B.Phil.)
Careers: Researcher, Policy Analyst, Think Tank Specialist
Bachelor of Law (LLB)
Careers: Lawyer, Legal Consultant, Judge, Legal Journalist
Subject-Specific Bachelor’s Programmes
– History: Archivist, Historian, Museum Curator
– Geography: GIS Specialist, Urban Planner
– Political Science: Diplomat, Political Consultant
– Sociology: Market Analyst, Non-profit Administrator
– English Literature: Editor, Technical Writer
– Economics: Economist, Budget Analyst
– Anthropology: Archaeologist, Forensic Anthropologist
– Archaeology: Cultural Resource Manager, Conservator
– Public Administration: Government Officer, HR Specialist
– Gender Studies: Women’s Rights Advocate, Community Officer
– Linguistics: Translator, Language Educator
– Performing Arts, Music, Theatre & Film Studies: Actor, Music Director, Film Critic, Choreographer
– Visual Arts: Art Therapist, Curator
The Arts and Humanities stream is no longer confined to limited options. With evolving industries and interdisciplinary integration, it now offers diverse, meaningful, and lucrative career paths for passionate learners.