Understanding Holland Career Types

Psychologist John Holland proposed that people and work environments can be grouped into six broad types. Known as RIASEC, the model is one of the most widely used career frameworks in the world.

The six types

• Realistic — hands-on, practical, prefers working with tools, machines, or nature.
• Investigative — analytical, curious, enjoys research, data, and problem-solving.
• Artistic — creative, expressive, values originality and unconventional ideas.
• Social — cooperative, supportive, drawn to teaching, helping, and healing.
• Enterprising — persuasive, ambitious, interested in leadership, sales, and entrepreneurship.
• Conventional — organized, detail-oriented, comfortable with rules, data, and systems.

How codes combine

Few people fit only one type. Most have a three-letter code, such as SIA or RCE, that describes their strongest preferences. The closer a career matches your code, the more likely you are to feel engaged and satisfied.

How to use the model

Use your Holland code to explore career clusters and majors aligned with your interests. It is not a verdict; it is a map. Combine it with aptitude and personality data for a fuller picture.