A humanities degree isn’t just about studying history, literature or philosophy—it’s about developing the skills that make a real impact in the world. Unlike fields tied to specific industries or job titles, the humanities don’t fit neatly into a single category. Instead, they offer something broader, a lens through which to think, create, question and connect. Trust me, there’s plenty you can do with a degree in the humanities.
What is the study of the humanities? Covering a wide range of subjects, this field involves understanding how people think, how cultures evolve and how meaning is created. Far from being a narrow path, a degree in the humanities opens doors to diverse careers where creativity, critical thinking and cultural insight are in high demand.
Forget the outdated “starving artist” stereotype. Today, humanities graduates are thriving in major companies, launching startups, leading creative teams and shaping strategies at major companies. Their ability to analyze, communicate and connect ideas is exactly what businesses and organizations need. A degree in the humanities doesn’t limit your future—it expands it.
And that’s not just theory. We spoke with our very own Meag Gardner—who holds a BA in Spanish Language & Literature and Translation Studies, an MFA, and a knack for making words work overtime. She’s now an adjunct professor of Fundamentals of Writing and Conducting Research and Head of Brand Narrative at IE University (you might’ve unknowingly been a fan already if you’ve read this blog).
“The humanities give you skills to excel in essentially every role: communication, critical thinking, understanding diverse perspectives, and looking at one thing from several angles. So in a more poetic sense, I can’t not use my education, as it has shaped who I am. And in a more literal sense, I will use my knowledge and skills in the humanities in every stage of my employment, from nailing the interview, to working in teams and decision-making.”
Jobs in the humanities
If you’re still wondering what you can do with a degree in the humanities, here are just a few examples that break the mold:
1. Development director
Lead fundraising strategies and donor relations for nonprofits, universities or cultural institutions. With an average salary of $97,870 per year in the US, it’s a strong option for relationship builders and mission-driven professionals.
2. Director of communications
Manage a company’s voice and messaging through PR, media and internal communications. This leadership role, averaging $97,850 per year, values strategic thinking, cultural fluency and strong writing skills.
3. Human resources director
Oversee recruitment, training, employee relations and organizational culture in a business setting. Humanities grads can thrive in this people-focused role, which offers an average salary of $106,550 per year.
4. Regulatory affairs manager
Ensure compliance with industry regulations, especially in healthcare, biotech or pharmaceuticals. This high-responsibility role combines ethics and strategy, offering an average salary of $100,430 per year.
5. Proposal manager
Direct proposals for any company, covering everything from initial development to final client presentations. You’ll put your persuasive writing and critical thinking skills to use to help businesses thrive, with the chance to earn an average of $108,150 per year.
6. Senior editor
Supervise the creation of written content, guiding the process from selecting story ideas to reviewing final drafts for accuracy and quality. This job combines language skills, creative vision and people management, with an average salary of $89,760 per year.
7. Art director
Develop the artistic concept for marketing campaigns. Use your creative vision to guide a team and launch innovative ads in this exciting role, which offers an average salary of $83,560 per year.
These roles demand strategic thinkers who can connect dots others don’t even see yet. That’s the humanities advantage.
As Meag puts it, humanities grads are equipped for an unpredictable future:
“Nowadays—thanks to technology, access to education and information and a volatile job market—it’s much more common to become a jack of all trades rather than a master of one. People study more than one thing, they have multifaceted roles, they constantly upskill.”
In her own career, Meag’s path has been anything but linear. She’s worked as a writer, translator, editor, project manager, freelancer—you name it. And she’s found that no matter where she goes, her humanities skills are a secret weapon.
At IE University, the humanities mean business
IE University’s approach is unique. We don’t separate culture from innovation. Our Bachelor in Humanities and Dual Degree in Business Administration & Humanities programs are built to help students connect big ideas with real-world impact.
Through interdisciplinary learning, innovative teaching methods and hands-on projects, students develop the tools to think deeply and act practically. Whether your goal is to build a social enterprise, fulfill your creative passions or become a global strategist, you’ll get both inspiration and professional preparation. IE University will help you turn your curiosity and passion into a career path.
So, should you study the humanities?
If you care about people, culture and the ideas that shape the world, a degree in the humanities might be the smartest move you make. It will prepare you to ask better questions, tell better stories and build a career that leaves room for creativity and adaptability. You don’t have to give up your passion projects to succeed—they might just be the thing that makes you stand out.
If you’re curious about where the humanities could take you, explore IE University’s Bachelor in Humanities or our Dual Degree in Business Administration & Humanities.