Support the CollegeCollege of Arts & Science & University Studies
Academic Advising
What Can I Do With a Major in Philosophy?
Philosophy is the study of the most basic ideas and ideals through which we understand ourselves and our world. As the pursuit of truth or, in its original Greek meaning, the love of wisdom, philosophy asks about who we are, the nature of the universe, and what it means to live a good life. Philosophy majors learn how to think and argue well, including how to support their claims with evidence, negotiate diverse perspectives, evaluate conflicting claims to truth, and reason clearly, and communicate effectively. Because they learn to analyze ideas and think through complicated questions, students are well-prepared with skills that are not only essential to most careers, but also the foundation of engaged and responsible citizenship.
The flexible curriculum in philosophy provides core knowledge in both ancient and modern philosophy and offerings in metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, aesthetics, political theory, feminist theory, philosophy of science, and Asian philosophy, as well as 19th and 20th century philosophy. Students with other majors may minor in the history of philosophy or ethics, society, and culture.
Interests
Philosophy is an ideal major for those students dedicated to examining and responding to ideas, arguments, and theories, interested in reading some of the important texts of human thought, and prepared to deepen their sense of the meaning and varieties of the human experience in order to enhance self-knowledge, foresight, and a sense of the ethical, political, and aesthetic values that orient one’s relation to the world and to others. The study of philosophy provides students with valuable skills that prepare them for an array of careers, including those in medicine, law, politics, international relations, business, public relations, education, and public policy.
Competencies
- Critical analysis
Problem-solving
Organization
Interpretation
Decision-making
Articulation
Explanation
Persuasion
Logical reasoning
Mediation
Diagnosis
Conflict resolution
Value identification
Reading comprehension
Observation
Evaluation
Argumentation
Communication
Interviewing
Listening critically
Interpersonal relations
Debate
Opportunities - Careers
- Business/Industry
- Lawyer
Entrepeneur
Consultant
Research and development specialist
Industrial relations representative
Consumer relations representative
Underwriter/claims adjustor
Promotion coordinator
Film producer
Real estate manager
Computer programmer - Human Services
- Social worker
Program coordinator
Community developer
Philanthropic organizer - Education
- High school teacher
College or university professor
Higher education administrator - Communications
- Public relations specialist
Editor
Publisher
Advertising
Journalist
Grant proposal development
Librarian - Research & Development
- Research analyst
- Government
- Public policy analyst
Public administrator
Intelligence officer
Foreign service agent
Legislator
Foreign diplomacy representative
Note: Some of the listed career options may require additional education and/or training beyond the bachelor's degree.
Opportunities - Graduate/Professional School
Philosophy is an excellent preparation for graduate work in law, medicine, business and other professional schools. Students are also well prepared to work toward a graduate degree in philosophy.
Opportunities - Experiential
Summer, part time, or volunteer work in human services, businesses, or governmental agencies, independent study with a faculty member, and involvement in student organizations.
Sources of Additional Information
- Department of Philosophy (212 Hall Auditorium, 529-2440)
- * Curriculum Requirements
* Career Opportunities - Career Services (200 Hoyt Hall, 529-3831)
- * Career Resource Center
* Career Counseling
* Career Assistance Center
* Computerized Career Development Program
* Dictionary of Occupational Titles
* Occupational Outlook Handbook - Arts and Science Academic Advising (146 Upham Hall, 529-3031)
- * Miami Plan & College of Arts and Science Requirements
- * Course Selection
* Career Decision Making
Developed by the College of Arts and Science Advising Office and the academic departmental offices with adaptations from Liberal Arts and Sciences - Skills - Career Opportunities, Career Planning and Placement Office, University of Michigan.