Holland Codes (RIASEC career interests)
The Holland Codes, or RIASEC model, were developed by psychologist John Holland from the 1950s onward to describe vocational interests. It sorts people and work environments into six interest types — Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising and Conventional — and members typically identify with the few that fit them best. Our free course explains all six, shows how they map to real careers, and helps you use the model to choose a degree or direction.
A well-validated model of vocational interests, widely used and supported by decades of research in career counselling. Set out in Holland's theory of vocational choice (Holland, 1959; refined 1997). (John Holland, psychologist; developed from the 1950s, formalised in the 1970s)
Groups
- Realistic — Hands-on and practical, preferring concrete work with tools, machines, and physical or mechanical tasks.
- Investigative — Analytical and curious, drawn to scientific inquiry, research, and solving abstract or technical problems.
- Artistic — Creative and expressive, favouring open-ended, unstructured work in the arts, design, and ideas.
- Social — Helping and people-focused, motivated by teaching, caring for, and supporting others.
- Enterprising — Leading and persuading, energised by influencing people, business, and achieving goals.
- Conventional — Organising and detail-oriented, comfortable working systematically with data, records, and structured procedures.
References
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