An Education for an Evolving Workplace

The future of work is a changing one.

In our new reality our work roles will be more fluid. Narrow jobs tied to a defined path will continue to give way to multi-focused, evolving roles in a team-based environment. Some have called this a “gig” economy. Structure is out; fluidity is in. Studies show that current graduates will likely change careers 15 times in their lives, making 11 of these course changes before the age of 40. Technology will continue to augment and re-shape the work world. Making a career in this environment requires people who can focus their creativity, imagination, and passion. Success will depend upon a person’s ability to critically examine their own understanding, to think logically about the issues facing them and their world, to act in creative and ethical ways, and to communicate clearly and in multiple formats.

Skills Valued by Employers

These are the enduring competencies of the liberal arts, and the skills most valued by today’s employers. Decades of research has shown that the knowledge and competencies imparted by a liberal education help graduates earn more over the course of their careers than those educated in more technical disciplines. They rise up more quickly in their organizations. They are able to adapt to new roles and new challenges more easily. They can function more effectively in a diverse world. And, they are more satisfied and fulfilled in their careers. Field experiences, internships, performances and presentations give our students ample opportunities to explore their options.

“I personally think there’s going to be a greater demand in 10 years for liberal arts majors than for programming majors and maybe even engineering.” Mark Cuban, Businessman and Investor

“Any kind of job is going to have a digital component. It doesn’t mean everyone’s got to be a computer scientist.” Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft

Rebecca Greenfield, “Forget Robots–People Skills Are the Future of American Jobs,” Bloomberg

Mark Koba, “Why Businesses Prefer a Liberal Arts Education,” CNBC