Mass Debate

Are humanities degrees undervalued? Hollie Hughes and Gemma Ferguson discuss.

NO - Hollie Hughes

As part of a proposed higher education reform package entitled “Job-Ready Graduates”, the Government plans to alter the University fee system for Australian students so that from next year those who study in-demand courses – in fields such as STEM, education, and healthcare – will have their fees reduced.

It is evident this policy has been put forward to encourage students to stimulate the economy post-COVID-19, and to encourage students to enroll into courses which have higher graduate employment rates; not because humanities degrees are undervalued. Here’s why:

1. Government priorities have been defined by pre-pandemic modelling which shows 62% of employment growth over five years will be in health care, science, technology, education, and construction. The policy also aims to increase the graduate employment rate of 72.2%, which currently sits lower than the rate for vocational education at 78%.

2. This policy offers financial stability to Australian Universities which are experiencing significant financial losses due to the absence of International students sparked by the COVID-19 pandemic. The change will have a positive impact on both the economy and students themselves, as it will increase the number of individuals qualified to enter into fields desperately needing workers.

3. The Government does recognise the place for humanities degrees within the tertiary education system. To assist students already enrolled in humanities degrees, no current student will pay increased fees and students enrolled in courses where costs are going up will have their fees frozen.

Times change, industries expand and contract, some die out all together. These proposed changes to university fees are simply reflective of current times, and projected industry growth.

YES - Gemma Ferguson

While the Government’s plans to change the fees associated with tertiary education is currently under investigation, the mere fact this proposal was even on the table proves the humanities are undervalued.

Teaching, nursing, and STEM will be cheaper to study under this new plan, however, the cost of some humanities degrees may increase by a massive 113%. Prior to the proposal going to Senate inquiry, the Government did concede to lowering proposed increases for psychology and social work, however, the fate of other humanities degrees remains uncertain.

Despite the Coalition stating the changes are reflective of industry growth, research suggests mathematics and science graduates have almost the same job outcomes to those studying humanities. So, while creatives are certainly valued in broader society, it seems they’re dramatically underestimated by the Government. These proposed changes are problematic because:

1. Not all students will make the switch, and some may opt-out of university altogether. This fee hike is shifting the focus away from the importance of education, and will force an already struggling generation further into debt.

2. There will be people who pick these cheaper degrees, and, after graduating, progress on to fields where they’re guaranteed work. And while financial/job stability is great, is it worth it if you’re not following your passion? A creative mind won’t be happy in traditional employment.

3. Disregarding the arts is a dangerous habit which could lead to further financial cuts, to university staff/resources, and to the creative services you know and love (hasn’t the ABC suffered enough?). If we allow this attitude to continue, this price change won’t be the last one we see.

Look, I get it, we need more teachers and nurses, and I understand lowering the cost of certain degrees will help these understaffed industries get back on their feet. But, does it have to come at the cost of other professions? Or, is it just a result of the current Government undervaluing creatives?

Designs by Bea King