Humanities
Why Study the Humanities?
Why do people create art? What shapes cultures? How have ideas influenced societies throughout history?
The humanities explore the ideas, cultures, histories, languages, literature, philosophy, religion, music, and artistic traditions that define the human experience. At Midland College, humanities courses help students think critically, communicate effectively, appreciate diverse perspectives, and engage thoughtfully with the world around them.
Whether you are completing core curriculum requirements or exploring a personal passion, studying the humanities helps you develop skills to:
- Think critically and solve problems
- Communicate clearly through writing and discussion
- Analyze ideas from multiple perspectives
- Develop ethical reasoning and informed decision-making
- Appreciate cultures and experiences different from your own
Did You Know?
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What You'll Explore
Humanities courses examine the people, ideas, and creative works that have shaped civilizations across time. Students explore questions about culture, creativity, leadership, justice, and the human experience through areas such as:
- Philosophy and Ethics
- History and Civilization
- Literature
- Art and Architecture
- Music
- Religion
- Culture and Society
- Global Perspectives
Through introductory humanities courses, students explore major works of art, literature, philosophy, and music while developing critical thinking, cultural understanding, and analytical skills.
Visit the course catalog for the most complete and up-to-date information.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Humanities students can expand their learning through opportunities such as:
- Davidson Distinguished Lecture Series
- Phyllis and Bob Cowan Performing Arts Series
- Scholarly field trips
- Cultural celebrations
- Community literacy initiatives
- Campus and community engagement activities
Take your studies further. Through the department's partnership with Midland College's International Honors Society, Phi Theta Kappa, students can complete advanced research or create interdisciplinary capstone projects that tackle real-world issues.
Planning to Transfer?
Midland College has articulation agreements with a variety of schools and programs to assist our students with transferring to a university. Our curriculum maps, located in the catalog, provide a guided path for general transfer to our top five receiving institutions; however, your Pathways Advisor can assist you with a personalized plan for your specific transfer based on university and program. It is strongly recommended and encouraged that you contact your Pathways Advisor for assistance with course selection if you plan to transfer.
Skills for Every Career
Humanities students frequently pursue careers in:
- K–12 Teaching
- College and University Faculty
- Academic Advising
- Educational Administration
- Curriculum Development
- Instructional Design
Skills Used: Communication, research, writing, mentoring, critical thinking.
Many humanities student continue to law school or enter public service.
Career options include:
- Attorney
- Judge
- Legislative Assistant
- Policy Analyst
- Government Relations Specialist
- Compliance Officer
Skills Used: Argumentation, ethics, logical reasoning, persuasive writing.
Employers increasingly seek humanities students because of their leadership and communication abilities.
Career options include:
- Project Manager
- Human Resources Manager
- Business Consultant
- Corporate Trainer
- Operations Manager
- Executive Leadership
Skills Used: Leadership, teamwork, communication, strategic thinking.
Organizations need professionals who understand storytelling and audience engagement.
Career options include:
- Marketing Manager
- Brand Strategist
- Public Relations Specialist
- Communications Director
- Copywriter
- Social Media Manager
Skills Used: Writing, creativity, audience analysis, persuasive communication.
Humanities students often excel in communication-centered professions.
Career options include:
- Journalist
- Editor
- Publisher
- Technical Writer
- Content Strategist
- Podcast Producer
- Documentary Researcher
Skills Used: Research, interviewing, writing, editing.
Federal, state, and local governments employ humanities students and graduates in numerous capacities.
Career options include:
- City Officials
- Public Administration
- Community Development Coordinator
Skills Used: Analysis, communication, public policy, leadership.
Students interested in preserving history and culture may pursue careers such as:
- Museum Curator
- Archivist
- Librarian
- Historic Preservation Specialist
- Cultural Resource Manager
- Collections Manager
Skills Used: Research, organization, historical analysis.
Global organizations value students and graduates who understand history, language, and culture.
Career opportunities include:
- Local NGO
- Foreign Affairs
- International NGO Program
- International Education Coordinator
Skills Used: Cultural competency, negotiation, language, communication.
Many nonprofit organizations rely on humanities students and graduates to address social challenges.
Career opportunities include:
- Executive Director
- Program Coordinator
- Grant Writer
- Community Outreach Director
- Development Officer
Skills Used: Leadership, fundraising, writing, relationship building.
Technology companies increasingly hire humanities students and graduates to help bridge the gap between people and technology.
Career options include:
- User Experience (UX) Researcher
- AI Ethics Specialist
- Content Designer
- Technical Documentation Specialist
- Product Manager
- Trust and Safety Analyst
Skills Used: Ethical reasoning, communication, user-centered thinking, interdisciplinary collaboration.
Humanities students contribute to patient care, communication, and ethics.
Career options include:
- Hospital Administrator
- Medical Humanities Specialist
- Patient Advocate
- Bioethics Consultant
- Healthcare Communications
Skills Used: Empathy, communication, ethics.
The humanities provide excellent preparation for advanced study in:
- Law (J.D.)
- Medicine (M.D.)
- Theology (M.Div., Ph.D.)
- Public Administration (MPA)
- Business (MBA)
- Library Science (MLS)
- International Relations
- Philosophy
- History
- Literature
Skills Used: Critical thinking, research, communication, analytical reasoning.
About the Department
ContactDepartment ChairDr. Brenton Cross Faculty |
Division OfficeFine Arts and CommunicationsAllison Fine Arts Building |
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Thank you for choosing Midland College! If you are here to collect a few credits, take courses to transfer, or here to start a new career, we welcome you.