What can I do with a major in Philosophy?
Philosophy is considered a branch of the language arts and involves the study of the truths or principles underlying all knowledge. Philosophical study involves a continuous attempt to analyze, interpret and logically explain what humans believe, value and do. While occupations are generally only indirectly linked to the study of philosophy, a number of other disciplines, avocations and leisure-time activities offer additional attractions for the interested student. Among the major sub-branches are metaphysics (what is real?), logic (what is truth? What is knowledge?), and axiology (what is good? moral? bad? beautiful?).
Related Occupations:
| Advertising Executive |
FBI/CIA Agent |
Lobbyist |
| Anthropologist |
Film Editor |
Market Research Analyst |
| Arbitrator |
Foreign Correspondent |
Personnel Manager |
| Archivist |
Freelance Writer |
Political Scientist |
| College Administrator |
Historian |
Public Administrator |
| College Instructor |
Journalist |
Psychologist |
| Copy Editor |
Judge |
Publisher |
| Criminologist |
Lawyer |
Research Assistant |
| Diplomat |
Lecturer |
Social Worker |
| Editorial Assistant |
Librarian |
Technical Writer |
Possible employers of Philosophy majors:
| Archives |
Museums |
| Publishing Firms |
Libraries |
| Magazines/Newspapers |
Religious Associations |
| Colleges/Universities |
Non-profit Organization |
| Public/Private Schools |
Social Services |
| State/Federal Government |
Skills important for Philosophy majors:
- Ability to formulate and defend positions
- Ability to make critical observations, evaluations and appropriate decisions
- Ability to summarize complicated materials and solve problems
- Ability to concentrate for long periods of time
- Ability to speak articulately and listen objectively
- Ability to organize, conduct and clearly explain research
- Proficiency in analytical and synthetic reasoning
- Broad background of general knowledge
- Comprehensive command of grammar and vocabulary
Personal attributes important for Philosophy majors:
- Desire for intellectual growth
- Logical
- Desire for recognition
- Desire to influence others
- Independent
- Tendency to question and seek answers
- Tendency to support beliefs with facts and logic
- Thoughtful
- Persuasive
- Objective
- Imaginative
Related activities for Philosophy majors:
- Do an internship
- Participate in political campaigns
- Join a student government or student association
- Read Philosophical literature
- Work part-time or volunteer as a research assistant or in a philosophy department
- Attend philosophy-related lectures, workshops or conferences
- Join a professional philosophical organization
Print Resources:
-
Careers for Philosophers. (booklet) American Philosophical Association, latest edition.
-
Figler, Howard. Liberal Education and Careers Today. Garrett Park Press, latest edition.
-
Flores-Esteves, Manuel. Life After Shakespeare: Careers for Liberal Arts Majors. Penguin Press, latest edition.
Internet Resources:
Professional Associations
- The American Philosophical Association
- The American Philosophical Society
- Society for Women in Philosophy Pacific Division
- Society of Christian Philosophers
This information was adapted from:
Fort Lewis College, Career Service’s homepage: http://cso.fortlewis.edu
