Rising university fees and scarce employment prospects for graduates have led some people to say that universities should not teach arts subjects, like philosophy and history, and only offer practical degree courses that maximise chances of employment. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

The debate over the curriculum of higher education has intensified in light of rising tuition fees and a competitive job market. It is a common argument that universities should pivot away from traditional

arts

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subjects

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,

such

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as philosophy and history, in

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of courses that provide more direct and immediate career advantages.

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I agree that there is a compelling financial case for prioritising vocational training, I maintain that

arts

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subjects

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are indispensable for developing the critical thinking skills and intellectual breadth required for long-term professional success. On the one hand, I concede that the removal of certain

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from core university curricula could offer a pragmatic solution to the escalating financial burden on students and their families. For a student with a clear and singular career objective—

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, aspiring to become a mechanical engineer or a surgeon—a broad education that includes

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seemingly disconnected from their specialisation may appear to be an unnecessary and costly addition. By focusing exclusively on practical, job-oriented disciplines, universities could potentially streamline degree programs, thereby reducing both the time and the financial investment required for graduation.

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,

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subjects

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offer a unique and invaluable form of practicality that goes far beyond vocational training.

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they may not provide a direct skill set for a specific job, they are instrumental in cultivating a range of sophisticated and transferable skills.

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, the study of history not only provides insight into past events but

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hones a student's ability to analyse complex data, recognise patterns, and understand human motivations—all of which are crucial for strategic decision-making in any field.

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, philosophy is not merely an abstract pursuit; it trains individuals in logical reasoning, ethical consideration, and the art of constructing coherent arguments, faculties that are indispensable in modern workplaces. These

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are foundational to the development of a well-rounded and agile mind, which ultimately prepares graduates not just for their first job but for a dynamic and evolving career. In conclusion,

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the focus on practical, employment-oriented degrees is understandable from a purely economic perspective, it would be a critical mistake to sideline the

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.

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arts

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may not offer immediate employment opportunities, they are essential for fostering the intellectual rigour and soft skills that are foundational to problem-solving and sustainable personal growth. It is

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crucial that universities continue to recognise the profound and enduring value of these disciplines.