The Practical Benefits and Prospects of a Philosophy Degree

Discover why philosophy is a good major that can translate into valuable skills needed more than ever in a complex and fast-changing world.

A rigorous philosophy program should give you exceptional training in how to approach and craft sophisticated and artful communications.

In fact, your philosophy major should reward you intellectually by introducing you to the wide range of creative and meticulous writing styles you’ll find among the leading philosophers.

As you write many of your own philosophy papers for your professors, you’ll develop your own personal, creative, and compelling voice and way with words, syntax, and figures of speech — equipping you for a range of writing careers.

Your lively curiosity, deeply inquisitive nature, and ability to look for logical threads and gaps under the surface of myriad perspectives and arguments — all of this provides you a strong foundation for careers in writing.

As a philosophy major, you’re equipped to delve into profound forms of social and intellectual inquiry, charting a carefully reasoned path to fresh perspectives that captivate your audience’s minds.

You may aspire to dive into the heart of existential questions, ethical dilemmas, and societal values — weaving your insights into compelling narratives that resonate with your readers and listeners.

Or, your path may involve taking one step back from philosophical topics. Instead, you’ll use your well-honed writing and analytical skills to write about contemporary social controversies, or to provide insightful commentary, analysis, or advocacy in topics related to business, law, world affairs, or other fields.

Whether it’s debating ethical theories, future business disruptions, economics, or technology trends… you should find your philosophy major offers some valuable training to jumpstart a career as a freelance writer or in journalism.

If you want to really lean into your passion for philosophy rather than leverage it in more “practical” career paths, committing to a literary career is an exciting prospect.

A passion for ideas and for finding creative ways to make philosophical inquiry fresh and intriguing could lead you to a very satisfying career path.

The fact is, philosophy isn’t just a subject; it’s a way of thinking. As a philosophy writer, you have the power to stimulate philosophical dialogues and intellectual curiosity. Your philosophical background provides a rich tapestry of perspectives and enduring insights upon which you paint your own masterpieces.

Whether it’s writing philosophical fiction or compelling essays about truth, politics, or the status quo, don’t feel like it’s off limits to explore working as a literary author only because it’s often the path less traveled.

A philosophy pathway is also an excellent one to jumpstart a career in law. Law schools want students with the kinds of critical thinking skills you’ll strengthen as a philosophy major.

As a practical matter, too, philosophy majors have demonstrated an ability to score higher than peers from other majors on the LSAT.

In fact, if you’re wondering what educators at Harvard typically cite as good pre-law skills and majors, philosophy as a discipline, and the skills you learn as a philosophy major, both rank high.

Whether you choose to pursue a career in writing, law, or another field, your philosophy major will provide you with a solid foundation for success.

So, don’t be afraid to explore the many avenues that a philosophy degree can open up for you.

Remember, philosophy isn’t just a subject; it’s a way of thinking that can enrich your life and career in countless ways.