Despite the common misconception that a philosophy degree offers limited job prospects, it actually opens up fulfilling career opportunities. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, philosophy and religion graduates receive a median annual wage of $60,000.
We will explore what you can do with a philosophy degree, the different types of philosophy degrees available, and how they can lead to diverse and rewarding jobs. If you are considering pursuing a philosophy degree or you’re curious about the career options it provides, this guide will offer a comprehensive look into the world of philosophy.
- What Are the Types of Philosophy Degrees?
- What Are the Jobs for Philosophy Majors?
- How Do Philosophers Make Money?
- What Skills Do Philosophy Majors Have?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Takeaways
What Are the Types of Philosophy Degrees?
Philosophy degrees come in bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD degrees, each offering different depths of study and career opportunities.
A bachelor’s degree provides a broad foundation in philosophical concepts and critical thinking. The master’s degree allows for specialization in areas like ethics or logic, preparing graduates for advanced roles or further academic pursuits.
For those aiming for the highest academic and research positions, a PhD offers extensive study and the opportunity to contribute original research to the field.
The United States has many colleges that offer excellent education in philosophy. Among Ivy League schools, Harvard, Yale, and Princeton have a long-standing reputation in American philosophy education. In 2024, Harvard was ranked the top Ivy League school for philosophy in the U.S., and placed at #8 globally by QS Top Universities.
Meanwhile, New York University ranked #1 as the best philosophy school in the world, according to QS, followed by Rutgers University-New Brunswick at #3 and the University of Pittsburgh at #5. This places U.S. universities as dominant in the top 10 philosophy schools worldwide.
Each level of degree opens up unique paths and opportunities depending on your career goals and interests. Find out more about each of the degrees.
Bachelor’s degree in philosophy
A bachelor’s degree in philosophy is an undergraduate degree, often serving as the starting point for those wondering what they can do with a philosophy degree. It typically takes about four years to complete and provides a broad understanding of philosophical concepts, ethics, and critical thinking skills.
Graduates with a bachelor’s degree in philosophy are well-equipped for entry-level positions in many fields, including education, writing, and business.
In a bachelor’s degree, the coursework is designed to build a strong foundation in critical thinking and analytical skills. Typical courses include the following courses.
- Introduction to Philosophy. An overview of major philosophical concepts, issues, and historical figures.
- Ethics. Study of moral principles and their application in various contexts.
- Metaphysics. Examination of the nature of reality, existence, and the universe.
- Logic. Focus on formal reasoning, argument structures, and critical analysis.
- Epistemology. Exploration of the nature and scope of knowledge and belief.
- Philosophy of Science. Analysis of scientific methods, theories, and their philosophical implications.
- Political Philosophy. Examination of concepts related to governance, justice, and political theory.
- Philosophy of Mind. Study of consciousness, identity, and the nature of the mind.
These courses provide students with a comprehensive understanding of philosophical problems and methods to prepare them for career paths or further academic study.
The courses are also present in master’s and PhD; however, the higher degrees require a more focused, graduate-level understanding of the foundations. Typically, graduate schools in philosophy require a bachelor’s degree in philosophy to pursue a master’s thesis level of final degree project.
Master’s degree in philosophy
A master’s degree in philosophy is a graduate degree that usually requires an additional two years of study beyond the bachelor’s level. This degree allows for more specialized study in areas such as ethics, logic, or metaphysics.
With a master’s degree, philosophy graduates can pursue advanced roles in academia, research, and specialized consultancy. It also serves as a stepping stone for those aiming to complete a PhD.
PhD in philosophy
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in philosophy is the highest academic qualification in the field and typically involves several years of research and writing a dissertation. This degree is ideal for those looking to teach at the university level or engage in high-level research and analysis.
Philosophy at the doctoral level offers an in-depth understanding of philosophical theories and methods to prepare graduates for leadership roles in academia, research, and public policy.
What Are the Jobs for Philosophy Majors?
Philosophy majors are known for their strong analytical and critical thinking skills, so they excel in jobs in law, paralegal, education, business, writing, and many more. They are highly valued in many professions with both their holistic and analytic approaches.
Philosophy and religious majors are in the workforce, with a total employment data of 537,520, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. They undeniably have a strong place in the workforce.
What you can do with a philosophy degree includes exploring careers in writing, consulting, and business. Here are some common career paths philosophy majors took after graduation.
Education professionals
Teaching philosophy at high schools or universities is a popular and rewarding career path for philosophy graduates. High school teachers focus on introducing students to foundational philosophical concepts, ethics, and critical thinking, often integrating these ideas into broader discussions of literature and history.
At the university level, professors handle classes on advanced philosophical topics, lead discussions, and guide students through complex theories and texts.
Beyond teaching, philosophy graduates can also pursue roles in educational administration or curriculum development. They might work on designing and implementing educational programs, developing curriculum that incorporates philosophical concepts, or advising on educational policy.
These roles leverage their expertise in analytical thinking and effective communication to develop and improve educational practices and outcomes.
Common job titles:
- Professor and college instructor
- Teacher
- School principal
- School counselor
- Education administrator
- Education department official
- Curriculum developer
Writing and media professionals
Philosophy majors excel in writing and journalism due to their ability to analyze complex issues and communicate ideas clearly and persuasively.
In writing, they can create content ranging from essays and articles to books, often focusing on subjects that require deep understanding and critical analysis.
Journalists and other media practitioners with a philosophy background bring a unique perspective to their reporting. They can produce in-depth analyses of current events, cultural issues, and societal trends. Their training in constructing coherent arguments and evaluating evidence makes them adept at investigative journalism and editorial writing.
Their ability to write complex philosophical ideas in an accessible manner makes it easy to engage a wide audience and contribute meaningfully to public discourse.
Common job titles:
- Content writer and editor
- Researcher
- Public relations and communication strategist
- Marketing specialist
- Print journalist
- Broadcast journalist
- Executive producer
- Media practitioner
Business and consulting professionals
The problem-solving and critical thinking skills you get in a philosophy degree are highly transferable to business roles. Philosophy graduates are well-suited for positions in management, where their ability to analyze situations, forecast potential outcomes, and make reasoned decisions drives business success.
In marketing, they can apply their understanding of human behavior and ethical considerations to craft compelling campaigns and strategies. Consulting roles benefit from their analytical skills, as they help clients solve complex problems and develop strategic solutions.
Philosophy graduates also bring a unique approach to business challenges, focusing on innovative and ethical solutions that consider broader implications and long-term impacts.
Common job titles:
- Project manager
- Product manager
- Manager in sales, finance, marketing, or human resources
- Business developer
- Business consultant
Public policy and advocacy professionals
Philosophy graduates find fulfilling careers in public policy and advocacy, where they show their analytical skills and ethical reasoning. In public policy, they analyze complex issues, evaluate potential solutions, and provide recommendations to shape effective and equitable policies. Their training in ethical analysis helps them navigate the moral dimensions of policy decisions and advocate for social justice.
Advocacy roles involve working with organizations or government bodies to promote causes, influence legislation, and drive social change. Philosophy graduates use their expertise to argue for policy reforms, support marginalized communities, and address systemic issues, which makes a tangible impact on society.
Common job titles:
- Policymaker
- Policy analyst
- Public administrator
- Non-government organization (NGO) worker
- Social worker
- Community developer
- Advocacy analyst
- Legislation staff
- Bioethicist
Legal professionals
The rigorous training in logical reasoning and ethical analysis provided by a philosophy degree makes graduates particularly well-suited for legal careers. Philosophy majors often excel in law school due to their strong analytical skills, ability to construct and deconstruct arguments, and understanding of ethical principles.
Most Juris Doctor (JD) students took philosophy as their pre-law course, and they may pursue careers as attorneys after their admission to state bars. They excel in skills that require interpretation and application of the law. They are good at representing clients and arguing cases in court.
Their background in philosophy also prepares them for roles in legal research, where they analyze legal texts and precedents, or in judicial positions, where they contribute to the interpretation and application of laws. The critical thinking and ethical training of philosophy graduates are invaluable assets in the legal field.
Common job titles:
- Attorney
- Government lawyer
- Court judge and justice
- Legal researcher
- Legal analyst
- Professor of law
Paralegal professionals
A paralegal assists attorneys by conducting research, drafting legal documents, and preparing case files. They help in the legal process by organizing evidence, managing case information, and helping with legal procedures.
Paralegals may specialize in various areas of law, such as corporate, family, or criminal law. A strong background in critical thinking and ethics, which philosophy graduates possess, is valuable in this role. While a bachelor’s degree in philosophy is not always required, it provides a solid foundation for understanding legal principles and reasoning.
Paralegals work in law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies, and their work supports attorneys in delivering effective legal services.
Common job titles:
- Paralegal project manager
- Paralegal assistant
- Government assistant
- Legal department research assistant
- Documentation assistant
How Do Philosophers Make Money?
Philosophy majors can pursue careers with competitive salaries, depending on the field they choose to enter. For those asking what you can do with a philosophy degree, the skills developed in a philosophy program are highly adaptable and in demand across multiple industries.
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as mentioned earlier, philosophy and religion graduates earn a median annual wage of $60,000 USD and an average starting salary of around $50,000 USD per year. This can increase significantly with experience, specialization, and advanced degrees.
Philosophy majors who transition into business roles such as management consulting or marketing can see their earnings surpass $100,000 USD annually. Similarly, philosophy graduates who pursue legal careers, particularly as attorneys or legal researchers, often exceed the six-figure mark once established in the profession.
Teaching at the university level as a professor can also offer a lucrative career, with tenured positions often bringing in salaries above $80,000 USD. Even in roles like public policy or advocacy, philosophy majors may command high salaries, especially in leadership or advisory positions.
The diverse skill set gained from studying philosophy, including critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and strong communication, opens doors to high-paying jobs for philosophy majors across sectors like education, law, business, and government, which provide a solid financial return on the investment in a philosophy degree.
Here are the highest-paying entry-level jobs for philosophy majors, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
| Job Title | Average Salary | Typical Education Level | Job Outlook |
| Market Research Analyst | $65,810 | Bachelor’s degree | 22% |
| Writer | $67,120 | Bachelor’s degree | 9% |
| Advertising Sales Agent | $54,940 | High school diploma or equivalent | 3% |
Meanwhile, honing particular skills relevant to each job title is what you can do with a philosophy degree to get the high-paying job you want. Here are the best-paying jobs for philosophy majors.
| Job Title | Average Salary | Required Education |
| Marketing Manager | $141,490 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Lawyer | $126,930 | Professional degree |
| Sales Manager | $132,290 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Political Scientist | $125,350 | Master’s degree |
| Human Resources Manager | $121,220 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Economist | $108,350 | Master’s degree |
| School Principal | $98,490 | Master’s degree |
| College Professor | $80,790 | Doctorate in chosen field |
| Psychologist | $82,180 | Doctorate |
| Arbitrator | $66,130 | Bachelor’s degree |
| High School Teacher | $62,870 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Editor | $63,400 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Historian | $63,110 | Master’s degree |
| School & Career Counselor | $58,120 | Master’s degree |
What Skills Do Philosophy Majors Have?
Philosophy majors develop highly valuable skills, including critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. Those skills are what you can do with a philosophy degree, useful in academic settings, and applicable to many industries.
The U.S. News & World Report compared philosophy and psychology degrees. While majors in both fields develop similar skills and the studies are somewhat related, the report highlighted that philosophy majors focus more on logic, reasoning, and questioning. This emphasis helps them become more critical thinkers and stronger communicators in the workplace.
These skills are what make philosophy graduates stand out in the job market, with their strong foundation for critical thinking and problem-solving in any field.
- Critical thinking. The ability to analyze and evaluate arguments and ideas.
- Problem-solving. Developing solutions to complex and abstract problems.
- Communication. Articulating complex concepts clearly and persuasively.
- Ethical reasoning. Understanding and applying ethical principles in various contexts.
- Research. Conducting in-depth analysis and synthesizing information from multiple sources.
Exploring exciting and impactful careers is what you can do with a philosophy degree. The skills you gain will serve you well in many fields, which makes it a versatile and valuable choice for your education and career path.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What can you do with a philosophy degree if you don’t want to teach?
You can explore careers in writing, consulting, business, public policy, and more. If teaching isn’t your path, a philosophy degree opens doors to careers beyond academia. With such versatility, philosophy majors have endless possibilities in fields such as law, marketing, non-profits, and more.
2. Is a philosophy degree valuable in the job market?
Absolutely! The critical thinking and communication skills gained from a philosophy degree are highly valued in many industries. Many philosophy graduates rise to leadership roles due to their capacity for strategic thinking and navigating complex issues. The skills are what you can do with a philosophy degree that makes you a highly adaptable and competitive candidate.
3. How long does it take to get a philosophy degree?
A bachelor’s degree takes about four years, a master’s degree an additional two years, and a PhD several more years of study and research.
4. Can a philosophy degree lead to a career in law?
Yes, many philosophy graduates go on to law school and successful legal careers. After law school, philosophy graduates often thrive as attorneys, judges, legal consultants, or policymakers, where their ability to dissect arguments and analyze complex issues proves invaluable.
Takeaways
- A philosophy degree offers diverse career opportunities beyond teaching, including roles in law, business, public policy, writing, and consulting. Many also thrive in the government, NGO management, and paralegal profession.
- Philosophy equips graduates with valuable skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication.
- Salaries vary by career path, but graduates often find rewarding and fulfilling jobs for philosophy majors. The average annual salary of a philosophy graduate is $60,000.
- If you’re curious about philosophy, it might be a good idea to chat with a college admissions consultant and ask what you can do with a philosophy degree. They can give you tips on how to get accepted and what it takes to excel in the program.
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