You’ve heard the stereotype: a BA degree is a “backup plan.” False. It’s a launchpad. A BA degree sets you up with real-world skills like critical thinking, writing well, solving problems and working with people. And those skills open way more doors than you’d think. That’s why careers with a BA degree span a wide range of fields. BA graduates are designing apps, teaching, managing teams, creating award-winning podcasts and starting their own businesses. It’s a degree that gives you options and the freedom to shape your own career path.
The strengths of a BA degree
A BA degree helps you build transferable skills that come in handy no matter what BA graduate careers are available. You get better at communicating your ideas, thinking through problems, understanding different cultures and coming up with creative solutions. These skills are exactly what employers look for because they apply everywhere. Whether you’re working with others, tackling challenges or adjusting to change, the abilities you develop offer many BA job opportunities.
High-demand sectors for BA graduates
When it comes to Bachelor of Arts employment, there’s a wide range of options waiting for you. Growing industries like tech, marketing, public relations, education, non-profits and media are all eager to hire people with the skills a BA brings. Whether you’re exploring different arts degree career paths or looking into specific liberal arts degree jobs, these sectors value your ability to communicate, think critically and adapt. If you’re wondering about humanities job options, these fields offer plenty of chances to put your skills to work and build a meaningful career. The key is knowing where to look and how to match your talents to the right role.
Top career paths you can pursue
It’s the versatile, broad-based degree that gives you a choice of majors for the career you’ve always dreamed of. Here are a few of the roles you could pursue:
- Journalist
- Event planner
- Museum curator
- UX writer
- Policy analyst
- Digital marketer
- Recruiter
- Project coordinator
- Public relations specialist
- Copywriter
- Fundraising officer
- Arts administrator
Upskilling and enhancing your BA Degree
Getting your BA is just the beginning. To really stand out, try picking up extra skills like digital marketing or project management through short courses or certifications. Internships are great for getting real experience and making connections. Thinking about further study? That can help if you want to specialise or move up. Also, explore digital tools and work on soft skills like communication and teamwork.
Common myths about the BA Degree
Many people still believe a BA degree means low pay or limited job options but that’s just not true. Lots of BA graduates build solid, well-paying careers in marketing, media, tech, PR and even business. Another myth is that a BA only leads to teaching. Teaching’s a great option but it’s far from the only one. People with BAs work in content creation, HR, policy, design, communications and more. You could even become the president of a country; former United States president Barack Obama graduated with a BA Degree in Political Science. That said, it’s key to understand the difference between the various degrees on offer and ensure you’re enrolling for the right one.
Matching your BA Major to a career
Your degree will give you skills. Here’s how to use it:
- English – great for writing, content creation, media, PR and marketing. If you love words, you're set.
- History – strong in research and critical thinking? Look at policy, journalism, museums or even law with further study.
- Sociology – good with people and systems? Try HR, social work, research or non-profits.
- Communications – if you’re a clear thinker and strong speaker, think PR, marketing, digital media or events.
Your BA is just the beginning
A BA degree isn’t a finish line. It’s a starting point. It gives you skills you can use in all types of careers and helps you adapt as things change. Whether you go into media, business, education or something completely different, your degree gives you a solid base to build on.
About The IIE’s Varsity College
The Independent Institute of Education (The IIE) of which Varsity College is a brand, is South Africa’s largest registered and accredited private provider of higher education. At Varsity College we understand that no two students are the same or learn the same. That’s why we make sure a student’s education is shaped around them; how they like to learn, what they are passionate about, what makes them tick, and what makes them thrive. Our Education by Design approach allows students to grow into their best, and creates a space where they can live, learn and play – their way.