Is a Liberal Arts Degree Useful?

March 3, 2021
If you look up “What is the most useless degree?” A liberal arts degree is likely at the top of the list. When arguing why it isn’t useful, it is almost always compared to a degree in S.T.E.M and how it isn’t beneficial when looking for employment. But this argument isn’t valid when considering how it promotes your usage of different skills and creativity. All forms of art, whether it be through paintings or writing, have always been a gateway for better communication. The degree is cheaper, and you can make a considerable amount of profit if you put passion into what you utterly love.
Compared to the average price for attending school for a four-year degree in any course, a liberal arts degree costs significantly less. As of late 2019, a four-year degree amounts to $129,160, each year being priced at $32,590 on average. As of early 2020, a liberal arts degree is priced at $24,380 each year, and $97,520 for a four-year bachelor’s degree. When amounting the total financial setbacks, a liberal arts degree does have a fair amount of advantages in that field. The average graduate makes an estimated $59,000 a year once employed and can live a comfortable lifestyle.
Another case that is made is the hardship of being employed with such a unique degree. In truth, it takes time to find an employer that can help you fine-tune your skills and assets. Many journalists, artists, web developers, and graphic designers major in this field but find it difficult at times to find a job that suits their capabilities, but it is also open to different styles of work and has a wide variety of opportunities.
Many also argue that people with this degree do not have any distinguished abilities. The reality is this department encourages more open thinking. When studying in school, many learn about a variety of subjects. They are taught about the history of literature, writing, philosophy, sociology, and creative arts. The degree is designed to help you be more critical to rapidly adapting landscapes which can be extremely helpful in the real world.
Ultimately, it can be perceived that a liberal arts degree does have some flaws but overall does have solid strongpoints. The degree doesn’t financially weigh on you too much, has flexible workforces, and encourages a healthy way of thinking.
Resources and research
- https://pittnews.com/article/154747/opinions/opinion-get-the-useless-fine-arts-degree/
- https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/why-liberal-arts-degrees-worthless-steven-waechter
- https://www.bestcolleges.com/features/liberal-arts-degree-programs/
- https://www.timeshighereducation.com/student/subjects/what-can-you-do-art-degree
- https://www.topuniversities.com/student-info/student-finance/how-much-does-it-cost-study-us
- https://educationdata.org/average-cost-of-college
- https://www.liberalartscolleges.com/content-the-value-of-liberal-arts-colleges/the-real-cost-of-attending-a-liberal-arts-college/