Dear Ah bis,
After reading your post, I seem to be able to draw some parallels
with you, yet not totally the same.
Our parents may already have certain mis-conceptions, or otherwise
known as mindset, of certain degrees and vocations, may it be due
to personal experiences, or from talk with friends and relatives.
It sure is good to listen to what he has to offer, but in the end,
the work/field you are going into should rightfully be your own
choice.
Talk is cheap, actions speak louder than words.
What do I mean by that? Do communicate with your parents (I suppose
you do, otherwise you won't post that entry 
) more and
listen to what they feel/think about certain degrees/courses/fields
which you are interested in. If they have negative views, learn
more about the fields you are interested in, and sell the good
points to them.
In the end, the choice should be up to you to make, as, the future
is yours to decide.
Regards,
Ah Death 