All About Humanities Stream: Subjects, Career & More

It is well known that the number of students pursuing a humanities degree has increased recently. A recent poll indicated that three of every four students pursuing a college degree expressed interest in humanities.

74% of the 36,000 students who answered the poll from nine different locations were interested in learning about the scope of humanities. Humanities career prospects have expanded in recent years. The more observant have recognized the benefits of humanities and gravitated toward fields such as law, economics, and journalism as humanities courses after 10th.

A humanities stream meaning can be well understood as it will teach students how to analyse, enjoy, and create art, musical piece, drama, and literature. The scope of humanities concentrates on comprehending knowledge of human cultures and enhancing professional skillsets. It also aims in providing students with opportunities to experience producing desirable and appealing creations.

Humanities Stream: What Does It Mean?

Humanities have emerged recently as a critical topic of study introduced to the CBSE curriculum. Unlike in the past, it is now considered a study of human culture concerning today’s situation. The fundamental purpose of including the Humanities as a CBSE curriculum stream is to give students several chances in public communication, counselling, and teaching. Most CBSE class 12 students choose History, Political Science, Sociology, Economics, Geography, and Psychology as their core courses. Humanities have practical implications in daily life. They allow people and societies to put ideas or actions to the test and envisage the repercussions.

What is humanities stream can be better understood as it gives a foundation for imagining the influence of new ideas in our society, politics, and everyday existence, both positive and harmful? The humanities stream help students comprehend others via their languages, history, and cultures, resulting in profound shifts in universal acceptance. They strive to promote equal opportunity and social justice. They also show how individuals attempted to make ethical, spiritual, and cognitive understanding of the environment. 

The importance of the humanities stream is evident in that it has practical applications that might improve professional abilities and provide a competitive advantage. A career in the humanities may lead to various satisfying and rewarding careers. Careers in public media, foreign relations, research, psychology, hospitality, and business are all possibilities.

Hence, a humanities degree opens up many professional options, including work in entertainment, literature, counselling, and business. There is a plethora of accessible job that requires one to apply their understanding of human behaviour.

Why Should You Take Humanities After 10th Class?

The Humanities stream broadens students’ understanding of human cultures. It also assists them in understanding what brings everyone together and distinguishes them from each other. Students can get transferable, marketable abilities and attributes after humanities courses, which will help them in their careers.

By pursuing the Humanities stream, some of the qualities an ideal Humanities stream student can acquire include:

• Critical Thinking – The capacity to accept and evaluate information and apply creative imagination to discover novel solutions to issues.
• Communication -The capacity to establish distinct points of view and convey themselves effectively and convincingly across both writing and spoken form.
• Practical And Quantification Reasoning -The capacity to grasp and apply numerical facts to create and provide well-informed conclusions.
• Teamwork – The capacity to comprehend and accept the perspectives of others, as well as to collaborate to accomplish shared objectives.
• Personal Responsibility – The capability to comprehend the implications of the actions, accept responsibility, and defend the decisions.
• Social Responsibility – The capacity to recognize what is desirable for the community and the world and act on it.

Employers need individuals who can solve issues in new and interesting ways, explain themselves effectively, work with one another, and perform responsibly and ethically. These skills are essential for nearly every job choice. When students pursue the humanities, they are prepared with these talents. They can have their interests turned into vocational skills. Students will be equipped to explore a variety of employment choices, including:

• Educator
• Writer
• Manager of Public Relations
• Advertising sales representative
• Travel Consultant
• Counsellor
• Event planner
• Military service member 
• Artist 
• Solicitor 
• Government Leaders

Is There A Difference Between Humanities And Arts?

Arts and humanities are two of humankind’s oldest branches of knowledge. The distinction between the two is frequently uncertain.

Humanities is a signature phrase for any topic that isn’t a scientific discipline. It can involve the arts, social sciences, and other fields, such as philosophy and history. Humanities is a vast academic discipline in which students explore numerous human interactions using analytical, essential, or experimental methodologies.

Paintings, music, dancing, and literature are all examples of art. In an academic environment, arts refer to the advanced study of those subjects’ practice and their related study. 

Most individuals refer to humanities as arts at times. In contrast, arts ideally refer to the study of fine arts. “ar” means “to assemble or combine,” and has been applied to literature, cinema, music, sculpting, paintings, and photography. Humanities, as opposed to art, emphasize more man-cantered fields. These are academic subjects where the human state takes priority over their efforts.

List Of Humanities Subjects For 11th Class

The following list of courses is mandatory and elective in the humanities stream of class 11.

Mandatory List Of Humanities Subjects For 11th Class – History, Geography, Political Science, Language.            

Elective List Of Humanities Subjects For 11th Class – Economics, Entrepreneurship, Fine Arts, Legal Studies, Mathematics, Psychology.

Let’s go through a brief description of each subject to understand it better.

History

It includes significant historical events in the country and the world, covering world history, dynasties, and the advancement of technology. Early cultures, the evolution of civilization, and society from prehistory to the current world are also concentrated.

Geography

Geography analyses the physical characteristics of the Earth and man’s interaction with the environment. It encompasses specific geographical elements such as topography, and cartography (the study of geological mapping). Physical geography advancements such as population, transportation, etc are also concentrated.

Political Science

It concentrates on governmental processes, how different forms of governments operate, and the scientific evaluation of diverse political operations, and organizational structures. Numerous administrative ideas and approaches are part of the syllabus. Political Science is the perfect option for students interested in politics and international policies. Along with Political Science, one well-known grouping is history and public administration.

Language

English is a vital topic for increasing one’s vocabulary, effective communication, and understanding of literature. It is the language of everyday communication. This language is highly significant in corporate work culture.

Economics

Economics is concerned with theories such as the functioning of the entire economy on an international and national scale. Economic aspects that our nation is currently undergoing at the micro and macroeconomic levels are included too. Economic evolution in recent times, and reactions of particular individuals concerning corresponding actions are part of the syllabus.

Entrepreneurship

It includes ideas such as Entrepreneurship Marketing, Community Empowerment and Resource Management. Theories related to Entrepreneurial Opportunities, Innovative Management, Enterprise Strategic Initiatives, and Business Numerical computations are included too. This helps students develop their entrepreneurial thinking. The in and out of the business principles are concentrated in Entrepreneurship teachings.

Fine Arts

If students want to pursue a design profession, the Fine Arts course is the finest choice. It could encompass graphic designing, pattern making, fashion designing or interior decoration. Painting, sculpting, graphics, and advertising material are among the specializations available to students.

Legal Studies

This subject is appropriate for law students. If a student chooses to pursue a profession in law, they must master this optional course. It includes researching the growth of the Indian legal system, its structure and statutory provisions. The family system of justice, state and federal court procedures, proceedings, and individual rights in India are part of the syllabus too.

Mathematics

Algebra, Calculus, Statistical data, and Probability are covered in Mathematics. Also, Mathematical reasoning, straight lines, and linear inequalities are included. Concepts of permutation and combination, and limit and derivatives are included in the syllabus.

Psychology

Psychology is a comprehensive study that analyses human development’s mind and behaviour. It is divided into several subfields, including infant and developmental psychology. Psychological counselling, clinical psychology, exercise physiology, behaviour therapy, social psychology, and psychological counselling are part of the syllabus.

List Of Humanities Subjects For 12th Class

The following list of courses is mandatory and elective in the humanities stream of class 12.

Mandatory List Of Humanities Subjects For 12th Class – History, Geography, Political Science, Sociology, Economics, Psychology.        

Elective List Of Humanities Subjects For 12th Class – Philosophy, Fashion Designing, Fine Arts, Home Science, Physical Education, Mathematics.

Let’s go through a brief description of each subject to understand it better.

History: 

The class 12 history syllabus is designed to familiarize students with critical historical events. The study aims to help students comprehend the activities and processes by which historians construct history. This is done by selecting and accumulating various types of evidence and evaluating their sources critically. Each class XII topic is split into four significant subheads –  

• a detailed overview of the events, 
• issues, and 
• periods being discussed, 
• a quick summary of the current state of research on the topic, 
• a track of how details about how the subject was obtained, and 
• an excerpt from the primary source associated with the topic, 
• making clear how historians have used it.

Geography 

The class 12 geography syllabus encourages students to examine better, grasp, and evaluate the world’s natural and social components. The course investigates 

• human and natural ecosystems and 
• their interconnections at many scales
• local, provincial, national, and global. 

Many research papers from Indian culture are used to further understand these concepts.

Political Science 

The class 12 political science syllabus attempts to familiarize students with some of the main political events and people from the post-liberation period. This helps to

• Create competencies for political study through contemporary historical events and
• Processes, and 
• Equip students to broaden their view of the world. 
• Learn about the current political context and 
• Familiarize students with some influential political occurrences and 
• Phases of the post-Cold War period. 
• Prepare students to know how world events and activities impact our daily lives.

Sociology

Sociology enables students to think about what they hear in their daily lives and develop a positive attitude toward society. The Sociology curriculum allows students to 

• Have a thorough understanding of human behaviour. 
• Provides for intuitive learning through activities and project work, 
• Allows students and educators to collaborate to invent new methods of learning.

Economics

The class 12 economics syllabus includes:

• Introduction to economic principles,
• Theory of consumption patterns, 
• Manufacturing and expenditures, 
• The formation of macroeconomics, 
• The circulation of income, 
• Computing national wealth, 
• Finance and financial services, 
• Budget and economy, and 
• Trade liberalization.

Psychology

The class 12 psychology syllabus explores differences in psychological characteristics, life problems, and psychological abilities.

Philosophy

The syllabus covers the broad areas of Scientific Method and Logic.

Fashion Designing

The areas where students gain technical understanding and hands-on abilities include:

• Design, 
• Fashionable drawing, 
• Fabric technologies, 
• Pattern cutting, 
• Computer-aided design, 
• Patterns, 
• Shades, 
• Running tests, 
• Stitching, and 
• Garment production.

Modules on fashion communication, clothing brand, and fashion identities will also be offered.

Fine Arts

Design rules, design concepts and components, media and designing are among the topics discussed.

Home Science

The topics discussed include:

• Human Progress and 
• Family Studies, 
• Textile and Clothing, 
• Resource Planning, and 
• Communication and 
• Outreach
• Concepts such as lifestyle and profession, 
• Health, 
• Public health, and 
• Development program management.

Physical Education

The physical education class 12 syllabus concentrates on understanding and doing physical activities. Both aspects assist students in developing methods of learning across the curriculum. 

Students will gain the skills necessary to be 

• Productive in their lives as energetic, 
• Active, and 
• Environmentally upstanding individuals in health and 
• Physical education. 

The fitness and physical education curriculum emphasizes vital educational principles and goals that contribute to character development.

Mathematics

Mathematical reasoning is one of four subjects covered, with the other being – 

• Arithmetic operations, 
• Number theory, 
• Banking, 
• Computer programming, 
• Probability, 
• Statistics, and 
• Mathematical modelling. 

Math helps students think logically and improves their thinking skills. Analytical thinking entails being able to think critically. The capacity to think rationally is referred to as reasoning. Analytical and thinking abilities are necessary for issue-solving.

Career Options In Humanities: Expected Job Roles And Average Salary

A career in the humanities stream may provide students with various fulfilling positions. Is humanities a good stream is a frequent question for many students. However, several job options in public media, foreign diplomacy, academia, psychology, hospitality, and business are all possibilities. Learning about numerous humanities employment alternatives and wage data for various jobs could assist students in making better career selections.

Let’s understand the top 5 career options after 12th humanities available to students.

1.  Historian

National average salary: ₹9,24,348 per year 

Historians undertake survey work, analyze historical data, and provide critical insights on prior episodes. They investigate the past by deciphering information contained in written documents, tangible artefacts, and other historical resources. A historian’s work may help present civilization learn about previous societies, beliefs, administrations, traditions, civilizations, and achievements. 

The courses required to be pursued for the Historian career options include a bachelor’s degree in history. The vast majority of academic historians then seek a master’s or doctorate, simultaneously undertake research, and write a thesis on their chosen subject of study.

2. Art Director

National average salary: ₹5,92,342 per year

Art directors oversee creative campaigns and are responsible for the control of designing, graphics, publishing, team leadership, strategy development, and campaign implementation. Art directors also work on marketing initiatives with design professionals and copywriters. Art direction also includes storyboarding and delivering precise movements to the team to achieve the campaign’s aim.

The courses required to be pursued for the Art Director career options include a Bachelor of Visual Arts, BSc in Graphic Design, BA in Fine Arts, Master of Visual Arts, etc.

3. Technical writer

National average salary: ₹5,36,587 per year

Technical writers are responsible for formulating instruction booklets, tutorials, and help segments for web pages. They translate technical material into language that is easy to read and comprehend. They additionally collaborate with Subject Matter Experts to provide clear instructions for consumer operation manuals.

A bachelor’s degree in English, Computer Programming, Media, or Communications is the most sought-after education for a technical writer. There are other training resources and certifications available as well.

4. Content Marketing Manager

National average salary: ₹4,62,768 per year

Content marketing managers are responsible for a company’s content strategy planning, formulation, and execution. They aim to accomplish business objectives by raising brand recognition by engaging with the intended audience. They engage across online platforms such as applications, blogging, digital books, and social networking platforms.

Candidates for the marketing manager position should have corresponding degrees in the marketing sector. Aspiring individuals can study marketing or management at the undergraduate or postgraduate levels. Several top Marketing Colleges provide courses ranging from certifications to graduate degrees in Management And marketing degrees such as MBA Management in Marketing or MCom Marketing. Other appropriate courses that Marketing Manager candidates might pursue are a PG Diploma in Marketing Management, a BBA in Marketing, and so on.

5. Public Relations Manager

National average salary: ₹4,23,228 per year

A public relations manager is responsible for administering a company’s communication activities, particularly with professional journalists. They manage a team of public relations experts and delegate work to them. Cases of their responsibilities include:

• Composing or revising press releases and 
• Organizing press conferences for different events, 
• Brand announcements or the 
• Introduction of a new product or service.

Consider obtaining the following educational qualifications to become a public relations manager – 

• Bachelor/Master/ MBA of Public Relations, 
• BA/MA in Journalism, 
• BA/MA/B.Sc.in Marketing, 
• BA/MA in Corporate Communications, 
• BA/MA/ B.Sc. in Marketing, 
• B.Sc./ MA/MBA in Mass Communication, 
• BA in English, 
• Post Graduate Diploma in Public Relations/ Advertising and Public Relations/ Public Relations and 
• Corporate Communication.

Conclusion

Students may have heard that Humanities is a path only for individuals with less than-average academic performance. On the other hand, Humanities is a broad discipline with several job choices for those who choose to explore a career in this sector. It is correct to state that following the Humanities stream would assist a student in pursuing a job that will provide them with fulfilment in terms of achievement and monetary gain. Humanities is a major for those who want to learn more about human civilization, ideas, beliefs, and how humanity expresses itself via art, design, religions, and so on.

Frequently Asked Questions