03/13/2025
An undergraduate degree in philosophy studies the fundamental questions and dimensions of the human existence and experience.
Some of the skills developed by a philosophy major include critical thinking, learning to write and communicate clearly, argue persuasively, and analyze intellectual, social and legal issues.
Philosophy majors often analyze information, develop empathy and propose creative solutions.
Students may also apply their skills to a wide variety of different fields, like business, law, education and many others.
Benefits of Studying Philosophy
When pursuing an educational program, the hope is to learn something new or gain a new perspective. Studying philosophy courses may help students gain skills and develop a strong foundation in ethics, critical thinking and analytical skills.
There are even studies that mention benefits of including philosophy as a general academic requirement as early as high school as a way to introduce new ways of thinking and foster critical thinking skills.
What You’ll Learn as a Philosophy Major
Undergraduate philosophy majors may develop knowledge in contemporary academic philosophy and its history; Western and Eastern philosophy depending on the curriculum.
Majors may learn to critically analyze and constructively object to philosophical views and arguments, and develop personal views on important topics through writing and group discussion.
After earning a bachelor's degree, students can apply to graduate programs in philosophy, law, medicine, or related fields.
Careers You Can Pursue With a Philosophy Major
Philosophy is a major that may lend itself to many different fields.
While it might not directly train you for a specific job like some other degrees, it may provide transferable skills like writing, reasoning and analysis that are applicable to many industries.
From a career in business, law, education or journalism to computer science, religion and more, philosophy brings solid, foundational skills that bring insight and complement and add depth to these areas.
Some careers that philosophy majors choose to pursue include:
- Lawyer: Critical thinking skills and argumentation skill may be useful for a legal professional. Disclaimer: To become a lawyer, philosophy graduates would need to attend law school and pass the bar exam.
- Professor: Teaches philosophy, political science or ethics. Disclaimer: To become a professor, philosophy graduates would need to attend graduate school.
- Public Affairs Specialist: Take on a government role using skills in ethics, reasoning or analyzing issues.
- Journalist: Having the ability to write and communicate clearly and persuasively on complex topics.
- Data Analyst: Bringing reasoning, ethics and problem solving skills to the digital space.
- Healthcare Consultant: Navigating moral issues in healthcare or patient rights with an understanding of ethics.
- Financial Analyst: Bringing analytical thinking and logical reasoning when making strategic financial decisions.
- Marketing Strategist: Using communication and critical thinking to create persuasive marketing strategies and analyze consumer behaviors.
How a Philosophy Degree Prepares You for the Real World
Philosophy majors may choose to combine their degree with other fields for those who might want to pursue multiple interests.
Philosophy majors can enhance their studies by double majoring or minoring in related fields such as law, business, or religion.
Philosophy majors often develop skills valued in fields such as critical thinking and problem-solving.
Philosophy graduates may choose to apply their skills in various industries, including business, law, and education.
Learn more about philosophy academic programs and read our blog on "What Can You Do With a Philosophy Degree."
Disclaimer: While a philosophy degree provides valuable skills, employment opportunities vary based on individual experience, additional education, and job market conditions.