Every person is a mix of all six Holland types, but a few stand out more strongly. Here is what each type looks like and the majors and careers that typically suit it best.
R
Realistic — The Doer
Hands-on, practical, and mechanically minded.
Realistic people love working with tools, machines, animals, and the outdoors. They prefer concrete problems with clear, practical solutions over abstract theory.
Example careers: Engineer, mechanic, electrician, architect, pilot, farmer, surveyor, lab technician.
Typical majors: Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Agriculture, Aviation, Construction Management.
I
Investigative — The Thinker
Analytical, curious, and research-driven.
Investigative people love solving puzzles, doing research, and understanding how things work. They thrive in scientific, technical, and data-heavy environments.
Example careers: Scientist, doctor, software developer, data analyst, researcher, mathematician, pharmacist.
Typical majors: Computer Science, Medicine, Physics, Biology, Mathematics, Data Science, Chemistry.
A
Artistic — The Creator
Expressive, imaginative, and original.
Artistic people value self-expression and creativity. They seek flexible environments where they can design, write, perform, or create something new.
Example careers: Graphic designer, writer, musician, architect, filmmaker, UX designer, photographer.
Typical majors: Graphic Design, Fine Arts, Literature, Film & Media, Architecture, Fashion Design, Music.
S
Social — The Helper
Empathetic, supportive, and people-focused.
Social people want to teach, heal, counsel, or serve others. They excel in roles that involve communication, care, and community impact.
Example careers: Teacher, nurse, psychologist, social worker, therapist, HR specialist, coach.
Typical majors: Education, Nursing, Psychology, Social Work, Public Health, Counseling, Human Resources.
E
Enterprising — The Persuader
Leader, risk-taker, and goal-driven.
Enterprising people love to lead, persuade, and launch new ventures. They enjoy business, sales, and politics where influence and results matter.
Example careers: Entrepreneur, lawyer, marketing manager, sales executive, politician, business consultant.
Typical majors: Business Administration, Marketing, Law, Finance, Political Science, International Relations.
C
Conventional — The Organizer
Structured, detail-oriented, and reliable.
Conventional people thrive in structured environments with clear rules, data, and procedures. They are excellent with numbers, records, and organization.
Example careers: Accountant, auditor, financial analyst, office manager, logistics coordinator, banker.
Typical majors: Accounting, Finance, Banking, Supply Chain, Information Systems, Actuarial Science.