Generalist vs Specialist: Which choice is better?

Leaving school can cause a whirlwind of emotions, including the exciting (and maybe slightly terrifying) prospect of going to university. Given that we are almost at the halfway mark, you’ll need to narrow down your list of possibilities and choose a qualification (if you haven’t already done so), which can feel daunting. With so many options, how do you choose?

Do you dive deep into a specific field like medicine or law, or do you opt for a general qualification (e.g. general BA, BCom or BSc degree) that allows you to keep your options open, and build a course around your interest and career aspirations? If it is the latter, then keep reading, as we explore the pros and cons of pursuing a generalist degree, to help you decide which path aligns best with your goals.

But first, what is a generalist? Simply put, a generalist is a person who has a broad range of knowledge across multiple fields and areas (e.g. linguist, artist, writer, entrepreneur, conservationist etc.), as opposed to a specialist, who focuses on a specific discipline/field (e.g. educator, lawyer, doctor, nurse, engineer) to name a few.

So, why go generalist?

Flexibility: A generalist degree opens doors to a wider range of careers. You might love history, but also enjoy tinkering with tech. A generalist qualification allows you to explore both interests before committing to a specialised path later.
Adaptability: The world of work is constantly changing. As a generalist, you'll develop strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills, making you adaptable to new situations and future career shifts.
Big-picture thinking: Generalist courses often emphasise connections between different disciplines. This fosters a holistic understanding of the world, allowing you to see the bigger picture and how different fields interact.
Explore your interests: Unsure of your exact passion? A generalist qualification lets you dabble in various fields before committing.

But pursuing a general path isn't without its challenges:

Finding your niche: The sheer number of options can be overwhelming.
Lower starting salaries: Specialised roles often command higher starting salaries than generalist positions.
Master of none? Specialists gain in-depth knowledge, making them highly sought-after for specific roles. Generalists might not have the same level of expertise from the onset, potentially limiting their initial career opportunities.
Depth vs. breadth: While you'll gain exposure to many areas, you might not achieve the same level of expertise as someone specialising in one field.
Job specificity: Some professions might require specific qualifications or degrees. A generalist might need additional training to enter those same fields.
Standing out: A highly specialised candidate might have an edge in a competitive job market. Generalists need to highlight their well-rounded skillset effectively.

Even with a generalist qualification, you can tailor your studies by choosing modules that align with your interests/hobbies and skills. Additionally, many generalist qualifications offer opportunities for additional specialisation later, through postgraduate studies.

Don't feel pressured to pick a side just yet. Research different general qualifications and explore potential career paths first. Talk to career counsellors, recent graduates, and professionals in fields that interest you. Ultimately, the best path is the one that excites and challenges you, whether it's becoming a specialist or a well-rounded generalist! To view our range of general degree & diploma qualifications, follow this link: https://www.mandela.ac.za/Study-at-Mandela/Discovery/Career-study-fields

We look forward to welcoming you to Nelson Mandela University in 2025.