Being able to think critically and independently is an essential skill that is often taken for granted. Questioning and understanding moral and ethical dilemmas is also vital for living an examined life.
The serious study of philosophy as a major can prepare you to excel in many distinct, rewarding, and challenging careers. Philosophy is a multifaceted subject that has endless depth and potential to study and learn from for years to come.
Why study philosophy?
Dive into the world of academia
Philosophy can help you in all areas of academia as it is a broad and versatile field of study. It’s, after all, the field on which many base their foundations.
“Philosophy’s aim from the beginning has been to give a general understanding of the universe that could provide a basis for the understanding of life, something on which to build a rational art of the existence of man and society,” writes A. Spirkin, an expert on the subject.
Develop your critical thinking and writing skills
As a philosophy major, you’ll also have ample opportunity to hone and develop excellent critical thinking and writing skills as you’ll be asked by your professors and teachers to really dig deep and consider larger existential questions and conundrums. You won’t have a problem taking a stance or debating your point of view.
Grow beyond a single field
You might be surprised to learn that philosophy does pay. It’s definitely not a “worthless liberal arts degree.” In fact, Payscale.com reports high job satisfaction and an average annual salary of US$ 72,000 for those holding a Bachelor’s degree in philosophy.
“The study of philosophy is not merely the study of abstract ideas. In fact, this discipline can teach you how to think critically and clearly present your argument – valuable skills that could set you up for a career as a barrister, solicitor, local government officer, or lecturer, to name but a few,” writes Katie Russell for The Daily Telegraph.
What can you do with a philosophy degree?
A philosophy degree offers more than just an understanding of ancient texts and abstract ideas; it equips students with a robust set of highly valued skills across various industries.
This versatility makes philosophy an excellent foundation for many career paths, from academia and research to consulting and management.
According to the 2021 report by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, management is the main field philosophy, and religion graduates end up in.
Best philosophy major jobs
We’ve compiled a list of the top philosophy major jobs that will open your world to endless possibilities.
Writer
| Average yearly salary | $61,570 |
| Why philosophers are a good fit | Ability to analyze complex ideas and express profound concepts with clarity and precision |
Parlaying your philosophical skills and expertise into a career as a writer seems like a no-brainer.
“A person with a philosophy major tends to have among the highest mid-career incomes of any major,” explains Associate Professor Chris Lauer. “This is for some of the reasons that you would expect, critical thinking and writing skills, but some of it is job flexibility — going in not expecting a career track but being willing to look for opportunities. Philosophy majors don’t expect to get a job in the philosophy factory. They pursue lots of different interests until they find what sticks.”
A writer knows that to make a career out of writing requires a certain kind of entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to being flexible.
Historian
| Average yearly salary | $59,420 |
| Why philosophers are a good fit | Critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and broad intellectual framework enable them to analyze and interpret historical contexts and events |
Philosophy graduates’ rigorous study of philosophy hones their ability to question assumptions, evaluate arguments, and develop coherent, logical narratives. These skills are invaluable in historical research, where assessing sources critically, understanding context, and constructing persuasive historical interpretations is essential.
Moreover, philosophy’s emphasis on ethical reasoning and understanding diverse perspectives enriches a historian’s capacity to approach historical events with a nuanced and reflective mindset, ensuring a more comprehensive and balanced analysis.
Lastly, philosophy graduates bring a deep appreciation for the complexities of human thought and culture, which is crucial for historical study. Their exposure to various philosophical traditions and ideas equips them with a broad intellectual framework to understand the philosophical underpinnings of different historical periods.
Journalist
| Average yearly salary | $46,344 |
| Why philosophers are a good fit | Adeptness at scrutinizing complex issues and presenting them through clear, persuasive writing |
Philosophy programs emphasize the ability to scrutinize complex issues, construct well-founded arguments, and consider diverse perspectives—skills essential for investigative journalism.
Philosophy students learn to question underlying assumptions and delve deeply into subjects, enabling them to uncover and articulate nuanced truths behind news stories. This depth of understanding allows them to produce insightful, balanced, and comprehensive reports that can effectively engage and inform the public.
In addition to their analytical capabilities, philosophy graduates are adept at clear and persuasive writing. Their experience in writing detailed essays and engaging in debates equips them with the ability to craft compelling narratives and articulate their viewpoints coherently.
Furthermore, their understanding of ethics and logic ensures that their reporting adheres to high standards of accuracy and integrity, which are vital qualities in maintaining public trust and credibility in journalism.
Operations manager
| Average yearly salary | $81,000 |
| Why philosophers are a good fit | Analytical problem-solving skills, methodical approaches, and ability to articulate clear, reasoned strategies |
Philosophy training emphasizes the evaluation of complex arguments and the ability to see issues from multiple perspectives, which are crucial in identifying and solving operational problems. This background allows them to approach challenges methodically, ensuring that decisions are well-reasoned and effective.
Additionally, philosophy graduates are adept at clear and concise communication, both in writing and speaking, which is vital for articulating operational strategies and facilitating effective teamwork within an organization.
Balancing efficiency with ethical considerations helps build a sustainable and responsible operational framework, fostering trust and long-term success for the organization.
Human resource manager
| Average yearly salary | $74,509 |
| Why philosophers are a good fit | Ethical reasoning and understanding of human behavior equips them to handle complex interpersonal issues and foster a fair and inclusive workplace |
Some might say that having a strong sense of a moral compass and ethics is key to a successful human resources (HR) manager.
Anyone who works in HR might tell you about how much patience and compassion it takes to perform well in a position that requires a high degree of professionalism and a good sense of right and wrong.
Philosophy majors are skilled at weighing the pros and cons and considering all angles of a situation. This is an invaluable skill for an HR specialist, who is often tasked with liaising between the employee and the employer.
Professor
| Average yearly salary | $92,669 |
| Why philosophers are a good fit | Strong analytical, critical thinking, writing and communication skills |
Professors impart knowledge and help grow body of knowledge worldwide. They are deep thinkers and must be good at conveying complicated terms, concepts, and ideas to others.
A philosophy-trained professor can articulate and express complex ideas and terms, making almost all subjects accessible and within reach for all students. Merging ideas with good teaching is an ideal career for a philosophy major.
Communications manager
| Average yearly salary | $72,444 |
| Why philosophers are a good fit | Strong communication, analytical, critical thinking, and ethical reasoning skills |
Philosophy graduates learn to dissect complex ideas and present them clearly and persuasively, which is essential in managing communication strategies and campaigns that resonate with varied audiences.
Their broad understanding of human behavior and cultural contexts further enhances their ability to manage communication across different cultural and social landscapes, making them valuable assets in any communications team.
Philosophy graduates also possess key skills needed to be great people managers.
Recruiter
| Average yearly salary | $59,113 |
| Why philosophers are a good fit | Deep understanding of human behavior, strategic thinking, and commitment to ethical practices |
Philosophy graduates make excellent recruiters because their education fosters a keen understanding of human behavior and motivations. This insight into what drives individuals allows them to understand job candidates’ needs and aspirations better, aligning them more effectively with potential employers.
Their ability to engage in empathetic listening and ask probing questions helps uncover deeper motivations and cultural fit, which are critical for long-term job satisfaction and retention.
Another advantage philosophy graduates bring to recruitment is their adeptness in strategic thinking and decision-making. This skill is invaluable in a recruitment setting, where the ability to evaluate various factors and make informed choices quickly can determine the success of a placement.
Conclusion
A degree in the varied, fascinating subject of philosophy is not limiting: the skills it develops and sharpens are transferable to various jobs and careers. It isn’t called ‘the mother of all disciplines’ for nothing.
Philosophy teaches students how to think about problems and how to solve them. This skill is essential for any writer, lawyer, political scientist, or entrepreneur.
So, if you’re thinking about getting a degree in philosophy, you can be sure that you’re preparing yourself for a successful career.