Holland Occupational Themes

Holland Occupational Themes, created by Dr. John Holland in the 1970s, match people to their best-fit work environments. This model continues to be one of the most widely used today. It goes by many names and is often called the RIASEC model. The initials represent the six theme codes: Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional.

There are three main ways for you to discover your three-letter Theme Code:

1. Watch the video and read the detailed description of each code at the top of the page. Then, pick your top three theme codes in rank order, with the most essential ranked highest.
2. Take an assessment. Three assessments identify your top theme codes based on your unique answers about likes and dislikes.
3. Schedule a Career Counseling appointment, and we will guide you step by step.

Click on your theme codes at the top of this page to see a list of careers and majors. You can also use O*Net’s “Interest” search to find more jobs and combine multiple theme codes to narrow your search.

Some people find something interesting in all six theme codes, and some may only relate to one. Most people, however, find they are attracted to 2 to 3 theme codes. Explore your top three theme codes to build a work environment that fits your interests, strengths, values, and personality. Your lowest Holland Theme codes reveal what you dislike, helping guide your choices for majors and careers. Use the career research site O*Net to explore careers that combine multiple theme codes.

That can happen. Remember, assessments aren’t magic. Only you can decide what the best fit for you is. If your assessment results are different from what you chose on your own, ask yourself why.

A career development specialist can also help you explore why. Think about which theme codes represent you best—your assessment, self-estimate, or combination. Sometimes, people answer assessment questions with “shoulds.” Should I like this, or shouldn’t I do that? The “shoulds” can come from pressures—from family, society, and yourself to make more money or take fewer risks.

Remember, when you think about who you are, what you like, and your work personality—make sure you allow yourself the freedom to pick what’s best for you. When you evaluate majors and careers, you will be considering many different factors before you choose, but for now, follow your interests to see where they may lead.

If unsure, you can schedule an appointment with Career Development Services for help.