Most students who major in philosophy are required to demonstrate advanced mathematical capabilities and must pass one or more courses in symbolic logic. As a result, these students tend to develop keen reasoning and communication ability. Surprisingly, philosophy students often find it difficult to find jobs after graduation. As reported by The Guardian, there are various careers that welcome the writing, reasoning, and communication skills found among undergraduate-level philosophers.
Jobs for Those with a B.A. in Philosophy
Outside sales professionals are assigned the task of developing and maintaining a profitable network of clients. Many of them work in business to business settings, and are required to comparatively market their products against those of one or more competitors. Many outside sales representatives are assigned company cars, company-issued laptops, and expense accounts. A philosopher who accepts such a position would regularly use his or her research abilities, reasoning skills, and knack for developing arguments to sell products and services.
Philosophers possess the skills to develop strong written arguments about various topics. Those with Philosophy degrees and solid writing skills could become freelance writers, which are self-employed contractors who pitch interesting stories to editors. Magazines, newspapers, and online publications regularly pay a fee to their writers for the use of his or her material. This business model is perfect for part time and full time writers, and offers the privilege of continuing one's research and writing practice on the topic of one's own choosing.
Philosophy students often read classical literature as a degree requirement. Those who enjoy literature should consider becoming high school literature teachers. The requirements for licensure may only require a four-year degree. Teaching offers the opportunity to mentor others, and could lead to further studies in education, literature, and history.
Government and Legal Careers for Philosophy Graduates
Government affairs professionals, or lobbyists, work with various organizations to advance the interests of a body of constituents. In their roles, they perform significant research on political and historical matters and must possess a talent for networking. They are often called upon to present their organization’s case to legislators, and must therefore possess a superior knack for developing clear, persuasive arguments.
Philosophy graduates often progress to law school in pursuit of legal careers. Law schools require their entrants to obtain a satisfactory score on the Law School Admission Test for eligibility. Through the Socratic Method, law school students perfect the art of questions, answers, and arguments. These graduate programs are a three year commitment.
It is clear that there are various career options available to those with a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy. Job seekers should prepare for the career search by preparing for difficult interview questions prior to their interviews. For instance, one should prepare himself to provide specific examples of how his studies have prepared him to perform the role for which he is interviewing. Likewise, one should develop a clear description of his or her perceived career direction prior to meeting with hiring managers. Doing so will likely impress the interviewer and may increase the recent graduate's changes of obtaining a new position after graduating with a philosophy degree.
