Applied Humanities
Are you fascinated by literature, art, history, and philosophy and in applying the knowledge and skills of the humanities to contemporary issues? Do you want to understand the human experience and turn that passion into an awarding academic experience and a meaningful career? Our Applied Humanities degree bridges the gap between academic exploration and real-world application, helping students explore the fundamentals of knowledge and become ethical learning leaders — that is, someone dedicated to the humanistic skills of learning but also committed to promoting the development of others and enacting positive change in the world around them.
In this program, students will learn to apply the knowledge and skills of the humanities in practical, impactful ways—whether it’s crafting compelling communication strategies, solving complex problems, or offering fresh perspectives that drive innovation in businesses, communities, and organizations.
Whatever career or profession you enter, our Applied Humanities degree equips you with the critical thinking, communication, and cultural awareness skills that today’s employers value. It’s not just about studying human ideas—it’s about transforming those ideas into actions that make a real difference. Start your journey with us and turn your passion for understanding people and cultures into a powerful, purpose-driven career and leadership in the 21st century.
At a glance
- Undergraduate major
- BS
- 4 years
- Main campus
Common Minors
- English
- History
- Human Rights & Social Justice
- Communication Arts
- Management
Only at St. Thomas Aquinas College
Ignite Your Career With Experiential Learning
Gain valuable experience and discover the wide breadth of career possibilities available to liberal arts and sciences majors through study abroad programs, internships, and community service opportunities in the New York metropolitan
area.
Career Preparation & Mentoring
Small classes make a big difference to students at St. Thomas Aquinas College. You will learn in a nurturing academic environment where we are set on your success. Our faculty of experts will personally mentor you and guide you to achieve your full potential throughout your college years and beyond.
Ignite Your Passion | Job Outcomes
A degree in liberal arts and sciences will prepare you for graduate programs in virtually any area of study you wish to pursue, as well as a wide range of careers. Our students work in these roles and fields, and more:
As businesses increasingly focus on digital presence, the demand for content strategists is expected to grow, with job opportunities expanding in various industries, including technology, media, and marketing.
The PR industry is projected to grow as companies continue to invest in managing their public image and communications. Job opportunities are expected to increase, particularly in digital media and public relations agencies.
Human resources roles, including recruiting, are expected to see steady growth as companies continue to prioritize talent acquisition and employee relations. This field offers strong job stability and opportunities for advancement.
The nonprofit sector is projected to grow, with increasing demand for program coordinators and grant writers as organizations seek to address social issues and secure funding.
While traditional publishing faces challenges, opportunities for editors are expanding in digital media, online content platforms, and self-publishing.
Careers in museums and cultural institutions are expected to grow, particularly as there is a rising interest in preserving and presenting cultural heritage. New technologies also open up innovative roles in digital curation and virtual exhibits.
Consulting remains a lucrative field, with a strong demand for professionals who can provide strategic advice across various industries, including business, healthcare, and government.
The creative industries, including film, advertising, and digital media, are expected to see continued growth, driving demand for creative directors who can lead innovative projects.
The demand for public policy analysts is expected to increase as governments and organizations continue to seek expert guidance on policy development and implementation, particularly in areas such as healthcare, environment, and social justice.
Our Applied Humanities degree offers a versatile foundation for a wide range of careers, many of which are experiencing growth and evolving with the changing job market. The ability to adapt and apply critical thinking and communication skills across various sectors makes graduates highly valuable in today’s workforce.
Featured Courses
Delve into the practical applications of humanities disciplines such as literature, philosophy, history, and cultural studies in various real-world contexts. By adopting interdisciplinary approaches, you will explore how humanistic perspectives can inform and enrich fields such as education, business, healthcare, and public policy areas that many of you may be considering for your future careers. We emphasize critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and effective communication as essential skills for applying humanities knowledge in professional and societal settings, preparing you for the challenges of the real world.
Gain hands-on experience applying humanistic knowledge in professional settings. Through placements in diverse fields such as education, non-profit organizations, healthcare, or cultural institutions, you will integrate theoretical insights with practical applications. Emphasis will be placed on ethical engagement, cultural sensitivity, and critical reflection as students contribute meaningfully to their internship placements, fostering personal growth and professional development.
Delve into the intersection of design, technology, and complex societal issues through the perspective of failure. Explore how disruptive technologies can exacerbate and potentially resolve “wicked problems”—complex issues resistant to conventional problem-solving approaches. Through case studies, readings, discussions, and practical projects, you will examine how design can influence societal challenges, embracing failure as a catalyst for innovation and social change.
Program options
A degree in Applied Humanities develops multidisciplinary foundations, critical thinking skills, superior communication capabilities, and a broad worldview- assets in any advanced program of study and in every career.