What is a degree in humanities?
What is a degree in humanities?
Defining humanities
Humanities as a field is all about studying human beings. This includes analyzing human culture and/or using critical inquiry methods. Britannica defines the field this way: “The humanities can include all languages and literatures, the arts, history, and philosophy.” If you’ve ever heard of someone getting a degree in humanities, their studies likely included one or a combination of these disciplines. Sometimes, universities will have whole humanities schools or departments where these disciplines are grouped together.
What is digital humanities?
Digital humanities is a fast-growing field. The field of digital humanities is very similar to the humanities. Digital humanities includes history, theology, philosophy, literature, and languages. The digital aspect of the digital humanities requires students to use and design digital tools.
The most exciting field you’ve never heard of
PC Mag referred to Digital Humanities as “the most exciting field you’ve never heard of” in a post back in 2017. If it’s so exciting, why haven’t we heard of it? Probably because the digital humanities are happening all around us.
Concordia University Ann Arbor offers an M.A. in Digital Humanities. Dr. Erin Laverick is the program director. She defines digital humanities this way: “Digital humanities prepares students not only in honing their content knowledge of a particular field…it also teaches them how to use and design digital tools.”
What can I do with a degree in digital humanities?
Laverick states: “These tools allow people to research and explore ethical, social, and religious issues relevant to local and global communities.”
Working in the humanities and in digital humanities nowadays requires you to be comfortable working across disciplines. Often, people who are passionate about humanities content will pursue a digital humanities degree in order to have a 21st century skillset.
Possible digital humanities jobs include:
- Web designer
- Digital communications specialist
- UX designer
- Archives librarian
- Curator or museum director
Why a master’s degree in the humanities is still relevant
It’s true that there are a lot of boot camps and courses out there that could help you achieve some of the skills you might want. But, a master’s degree unlocks more opportunities for you.
One key benefit to a master’s degree is the potential for a higher salary. While bootcamps and quick courses can be useful, they often lack the depth and time required to learn a subject well. Earning your master’s in Digital Humanities tells your future employer that you took a deep dive into robust course content and research. Plus, each of your professors is an expert in their field, so you can be sure you’re learning from the best.
Do you love the humanities?
If you love the humanities, but you’re unsure what a degree in the humanities could mean for you, that’s okay. You can request more information here.
— Vanessa Lane is the Content Marketing Lead at Concordia University and can be reached at vanessa.lane@cuaa.edu. When she's not at work, she can be found playing with her kids or watching NBA basketball with her husband.
If this story has inspired you, why not explore how you can help further Concordia's mission through giving.