5 answers
Emmie
Student
Willmar, Minnesota
3
Questions
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What careers can you achieve with a philosophy degree?
What jobs are out there that a philosophy degree is beneficial
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5 answers
C Scott
Lead Designer
1
Answer
San Francisco, California
Updated
C’s Answer
Hi there!
Love your question. Philosophy is a broad field but most areas of focus will share an emphasis on critical thinking that can prove useful to a number of professions - even outside of academia. For example, I earned my PhD in continental philosophy. media theory and cultural studies and found work in international marketing and advertising. Being thoughtful about your area of focus and intentional about your desired career path will get you far. All the best!
Love your question. Philosophy is a broad field but most areas of focus will share an emphasis on critical thinking that can prove useful to a number of professions - even outside of academia. For example, I earned my PhD in continental philosophy. media theory and cultural studies and found work in international marketing and advertising. Being thoughtful about your area of focus and intentional about your desired career path will get you far. All the best!
This was super helpful, thank you!
Emmie
Michael Lodato
Philosophy instructor turned product manager
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Michael’s Answer
I was a philosophy major. You can basically pursue any career you like. Obviously, if you want to become an engineer, you need to take engineering courses, and philosophy will be of little help. But if you are keeping your options open, philosophy is a great choice. With a philosophy education, you will become stronger in writing, logical thinking, speaking, and reading.
My first job was at a small startup. I worked in customer service. When we had team meetings, I realized that I was great at moderating the discussion and posing questions. The goals and strategies set out by a startup usually begin as somewhat nebulous, and philosophy trains you to be comfortable navigating abstract, conceptual issues, even in a business context. Eventually, I became a product manager for a web and mobile app, which required a lot of planning, big-picture thinking, and writing. Communicating the same idea to developers, designers, and sales professionals is not easy. My philosophy training certainly came in handy. Philosophy lends itself to persuasive writing. Building a strong argument and defending your viewpoint with good reasons is useful in virtually any profession.
Philosophy also pairs well with pre-law or pre-med. Philosophy majors historically do well on the MCAT and LSAT, and showcasing an interest in ethics or epistemology can be attractive in an interview with a professional or graduate program.
Studying philosophy was one of the most important choices I made with respect to my career. If philosophy excites you, study it. You want to pick a major that holds your interest and that will allow you to excel. Work with an advisor and get some internship experience as well. In practice, philosophy includes many job-relevant skills, but that is not always obvious on paper. For example, you might try an internship that teaches you a skill that does not appear in philosophy, like data analysis. Philosophy will make you a quick learner, and as long as you build an attractive resume, nearly any career path will remain open to you.
My first job was at a small startup. I worked in customer service. When we had team meetings, I realized that I was great at moderating the discussion and posing questions. The goals and strategies set out by a startup usually begin as somewhat nebulous, and philosophy trains you to be comfortable navigating abstract, conceptual issues, even in a business context. Eventually, I became a product manager for a web and mobile app, which required a lot of planning, big-picture thinking, and writing. Communicating the same idea to developers, designers, and sales professionals is not easy. My philosophy training certainly came in handy. Philosophy lends itself to persuasive writing. Building a strong argument and defending your viewpoint with good reasons is useful in virtually any profession.
Philosophy also pairs well with pre-law or pre-med. Philosophy majors historically do well on the MCAT and LSAT, and showcasing an interest in ethics or epistemology can be attractive in an interview with a professional or graduate program.
Studying philosophy was one of the most important choices I made with respect to my career. If philosophy excites you, study it. You want to pick a major that holds your interest and that will allow you to excel. Work with an advisor and get some internship experience as well. In practice, philosophy includes many job-relevant skills, but that is not always obvious on paper. For example, you might try an internship that teaches you a skill that does not appear in philosophy, like data analysis. Philosophy will make you a quick learner, and as long as you build an attractive resume, nearly any career path will remain open to you.
Clare Nolan
Deal Desk
1
Answer
Denver, Colorado
Updated
Clare’s Answer
Hello! At present, I'm working as a deal analyst in a tech firm, and my academic background is in Philosophy. Pursuing a degree in Philosophy is indeed beneficial as it nurtures an open-minded approach, enhances discernment, and hones logical thinking. These attributes can be applied to any professional field post-graduation. One piece of advice that resonated with me during my college years was to focus on studying subjects that pique your interest, rather than fretting over the job prospects they might lead to. Generally, your career path will align with your interests, but it's okay if it doesn't. Don't let the fear of the unknown deter you from studying what you truly enjoy!
Joseph Ford
125
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Joseph’s Answer
Well, I attended St Josephs University, lots of Philosophy. :-) Jobs consist of mostly Teaching. I would suggest attaining a Master or even a Dr degree if this is really your passion.
Loriel Johnson MHEd
Academic Advisor II
31
Answers
Cleveland, Ohio
Updated
Loriel’s Answer
Hello! As an academic advisor, I often come across students who are unsure about potential career paths they can pursue with their philosophy degree. Rest assured, there are numerous opportunities available to you in various fields.
One popular option for philosophy students at our institution is to attend law school and eventually become a lawyer. A philosophy background can provide a strong foundation for legal reasoning and debating skills. However, law is not the only path available to you.
You may also consider careers in post-secondary education, such as becoming a professor or lecturer in philosophy or related subjects. Alternatively, you may be interested in pursuing a role as a religious teacher, where you can use your philosophical knowledge to guide others in their spiritual journey.
Additionally, a philosophy degree also opens doors to careers in politics, where you can use your analytical and critical thinking skills to engage in policy-making and public service. Public relations is another area to consider, as your ability to present persuasive arguments and communicate complex ideas clearly can prove advantageous in managing an organization's public image.
Moreover, you can also choose to become a social worker, utilizing your empathetic abilities and knowledge of ethics to make a meaningful impact on people's lives. These career options not only offer personal fulfillment but also provide competitive compensation.
If you haven't done so already, I recommend making an appointment with your career services office. They can help you explore these opportunities further and identify the best career path for you based on your interests, skills, and desired location. If you are still in high school, I encourage you to conduct your own research and explore potential career paths, particularly focusing on the job market and opportunities in the area you plan to live in.
I hope this comprehensive response has provided you with valuable insights and inspiration as you embark on your journey to pursue a career with your philosophy degree. Best of luck!
One popular option for philosophy students at our institution is to attend law school and eventually become a lawyer. A philosophy background can provide a strong foundation for legal reasoning and debating skills. However, law is not the only path available to you.
You may also consider careers in post-secondary education, such as becoming a professor or lecturer in philosophy or related subjects. Alternatively, you may be interested in pursuing a role as a religious teacher, where you can use your philosophical knowledge to guide others in their spiritual journey.
Additionally, a philosophy degree also opens doors to careers in politics, where you can use your analytical and critical thinking skills to engage in policy-making and public service. Public relations is another area to consider, as your ability to present persuasive arguments and communicate complex ideas clearly can prove advantageous in managing an organization's public image.
Moreover, you can also choose to become a social worker, utilizing your empathetic abilities and knowledge of ethics to make a meaningful impact on people's lives. These career options not only offer personal fulfillment but also provide competitive compensation.
If you haven't done so already, I recommend making an appointment with your career services office. They can help you explore these opportunities further and identify the best career path for you based on your interests, skills, and desired location. If you are still in high school, I encourage you to conduct your own research and explore potential career paths, particularly focusing on the job market and opportunities in the area you plan to live in.
I hope this comprehensive response has provided you with valuable insights and inspiration as you embark on your journey to pursue a career with your philosophy degree. Best of luck!
Thank you!
Emmie