Final answer:
A broad and deep humanities education equips students with the skills to think, analyze, and write critically, encompassing areas such as literature, philosophy, and the arts, fostering abilities valued in many career paths.
Step-by-step explanation:
The phrase "a broad and deep humanities education that teaches them how to think and write critically" refers to an educational approach that encompasses diverse areas of the humanities. These areas include literature, philosophy, the fine arts and more. The aim is to develop students' abilities to engage with and reflect upon the human condition through various forms of human expression and thought.
Central to a humanities education is the cultivation of critical thinking and writing skills. Critical thinking involves the ability to analyze, interpret, and evaluate ideas. When applied to writing, it enables students to articulate thoughts that are insightful and hold up to scrutiny, characterized by the creation of well-reasoned arguments and judgements.
Such an education is not solely for academic achievement but also prepares students for a wide array of careers. Humanities graduates are known for their proficiency in interacting with texts, formulating clear, persuasive prose, and understanding human behavior—all of which are highly valued by various industries.