Philosophy is the discipline devoted to life’s big questions. It gives you the chance to think carefully and critically about truth, goodness, beauty, and how we should live in the modern world. Studying philosophy will acquaint you with popular views on these issues as well as teach you how to develop your own. The tools and training you acquire will remain with you when you graduate, equipping you to have a more successful career and a more meaningful life.
A philosophy degree gives you many career options. You can find successful people with this background in almost every field. One common path is to go to law school or medical school. The training in argumentation and conceptual analysis that philosophy majors receive leads them to perform well on entrance exams. But philosophy graduates have also become journalists, politicians, filmmakers, clergy, comedians, activists, and entrepreneurs.
Jobs in Government
- Foreign Service Officer
- Peace Corps/VISTA Volunteer
- FBI/CIA Agent
- Diplomat
- Politician
- Lawyer
- Lobbyist
Considerations: Foreign language skills are valuable or required for some of these positions. You gain excellent experience in the government field by finding an internship related to your interests.
Jobs in Business and Industry
- Consultant
- Entrepeneur
- Market Research Analyst
- Banker
- Research Assistant
- Sales Representative
Considerations: A business minor may be helpful, but sometimes relevant experience is more beneficial.
Graduate School and Professional Education
- Philosophy
- Law
- Journalism
- Education
- Literature
- Languages
Considerations: Remember to take any necessary exams early; it can take six weeks for results to be sent to the schools to which you applied. Foreign language competency, sometimes in two languages, is required in many graduate programs.
Jobs in Communications
- Public Relations Specialist
- Journalist
- Editor
- Foreign Correspondent
- Publisher
- Copy Editor
- Technical Writer
Considerations: A writing minor can increase your desirability for potential employers, as would journalism and/or communications-related work or internships.
Skills and Comptetencies
A philosophy major gives you a variety of skills. That’s what makes it beneficial for so many careers. First, you will become more adept at critical thinking. You will learn how to process ideas rationally, judge evidence fairly, and evaluate arguments insightfully.
Getting a degree in philosophy also sharpens your written and verbal communication skills. It teaches you how to express yourself clearly and persuasively. In addition, it trains you to interpret other people charitably so you can engage with their points of view respectfully and effectively.
Finally, philosophy improves your moral reasoning abilities. That doesn't mean you acquire "the right views" about morality. Instead, it means you learn what questions to ask and what values to consider when making difficult decisions in your life and career.
Career Development Strategies
You should begin the resume-building process as soon as you can. The Academic and Career Advisement Center can assist you with career planning, while Career Services will help you fine tune your resume and look for jobs related to your field. In the meantime, the more hands-on experience you have, the better the chances are that you will find a job. Becoming involved in a professional related internship is one way to develop your professional skills and gain experience. Another is to attend or present at a student philosophy conference. Your course work is important as well, so be sure to maintain a high grade point average.