Learn How to Think, Not What to Think – Contemplate a Philosophy Major

What do we believe and why do we believe it? Who are we and why are we here? What ought we do and why should we do it? Philosophy encourages critical and systematic inquiry into fundamental questions of right and wrong, truth and falsehood, the meaning of life, and the nature of reality, knowledge and society. More than any other discipline, philosophy explores the core issues of the Western intellectual tradition. Philosophy encourages the student to formulate questions and follow arguments.

Philosophy provides an excellent preparation for law school and other professional programs, as well as a solid foundation for a career in business, teaching, writing, or public service. The Department of Philosophy offers an undergraduate Bachelor of Arts degree and a Doctor of Philosophy graduate degree.

What skills does studying philosophy develop?

• generate ideas on a variety of problems 
• formulate and solve problems 
• uncover assumptions and suggest alternatives 
• ability to distinguish subtle differences without overlooking similarities 
• analyze, develop and formulate logical arguments 
• capability to make knowledgeable decisions, examining thoroughly the consequences of various actions
• aptitude to examine various angles of topics 
• ability to write and speak clearly and effectively 
• interpret and assess various thoughts and theories

Undergraduate Program
Graduate Program

Career Opportunities

Philosophy is the ultimate "transferable work skill."  With its emphasis on reason and argumentation, philosophy is an excellent preparation for a career in law, religion, business, international diplomacy, social work, medical management or writing as well as post-graduate education. Philosophy majors successfully work in, but are not limited to the following occupational fields:

• lawyer 
• banker
• public relations director
• publisher
• journalist 
• retail management
• librarian
• counselor
• marketing 
• consulting
• research
• accountant
• social worker
• professor
• self-employed
• labor relations
• foreign service officer
• public policy
• non-profit work 
• minister
• teacher

For more information about careers, go to the following:

• "In a New Generation of College Students, Many Opt for the Life of the Mind" (NY Times, 4/6/08)
• "Philosophy is Back in Business" (Bloomberg, 1/12/10)
• "I think, therefore I earn" (Guardian, 11/20/07)
• "Philosophers Find the Degree Pays Off in Life and Work" (NY Times, 12/26/97)
• "Where the Smart Students Are" (NYTimes, 8/23/10)
• "Best and Worst Jobs 2010" -- "Philosopher" #11 (??) (Wall Street Journal, 1/5/10)
• GRE Scores by Major (Philosophy #1 in Verbal Reasoning and Analytical Writing, #1 overall of all Humanities majors)
• LSAT Scores by Major (here, Philosophy #2 in the 1990s, and here, still #2 in recent exams)
• American Philosophical Association
• World Wide Learn
• Inside Higher Ed
• American Bar Association -- here and here. 
  "In assessing a prospective law student's educational qualifications, admissions committees generally consider the chosen curriculum, the grades earned, and the reputation of the colleges attended. They also view favorably scholastic honors, awards, and special recognition. Solid grades in courses such as logic, philosophy, and abstract mathematics are generally considered a plus."

  "Contrary to popular belief, law schools do not favor political science, criminal justice, and government majors over others. Choose major and elective courses that you will genuinely enjoy, instead of those you were told were required for pre-law students. You are likely to get better grades in a field you find interesting. And even if you don’t, law schools will respect your pursuit of subjects you find challenging. This is especially true if the courses you take are known to be more difficult, such as philosophy, engineering, and science. Also, look for courses that will strengthen the skills you need in law school. Classes that stress research and writing are excellent preparation for law school, as are courses that teach reasoning and analytical skills. "

For more information about career opportunities, contact the UK Career Center.