LIBERAL ARTS

In recent years, there has been a growing concern about the lopsided growth in the education sector as a result of overemphasis on certain courses and careers. A number of institutes are now combating this by providing state-of-the-art courses in liberal arts.

Education in liberal arts has very diverse attributes, says Devi Singh, Vice-chancellor, Flame University, Pune. “Through liberal education, students gain confidence to take initiative, solve problems, and formulate ideas. They develop skills in language, learning, and leadership that are important to succeed professionally and emerge as well-rounded individuals,” he says.

Most popular specialisations

“Economics, psychology, literary and cultural studies, international studies, environmental studies, sociology, public policy, and applied mathematics are among the most popular subjects,” says Singh.

Skills needed to succeed

“Liberal education lays emphasis on inculcating skills such as writing, communication, teamwork, leadership and ethical conduct. It is an education for life rather than ‘just’ training for a particular job,” says Vineet Gupta, Pro Vice-chancellor, Ashoka University, Sonipat, Haryana.

Career prospects

“Liberal arts graduates can work in international relations, public policy, as human resource specialists, law, and journalism among other fields,” says Singh.