Philosophy careers and employability
Boost your graduate opportunities with a Philosophy degree.
Philosophy
Employability skills
Many employers value the specific skills that the study of philosophy develops. Studying Philosophy will give you the ability to:
- analyse and construct sound arguments
- think logically and critically about ideas and issues
- communicate clearly and persuasively
- generate solutions to problems
The project module also provides an opportunity to demonstrate to future employers how philosophy is relevant to the wider world. It is a chance to direct your learning toward your future career.
While working on your project module you'll gain crucial employability skills sought by graduate employers. Some examples of this include:
- independent study and self-motivation
- the ability to prioritise work and meet deadlines
- project management and team working
- flexibility, creativity and problem-solving
- the ability to identify, absorb and sift complex information
I'm a manager for a global consultancy firm running innovation engagements for the UK. I’d say I’m not naturally a very creative person, but my philosophy degree made me tap into a creative mindset and apply that to problems. That’s now my job every day.
What jobs do Philosophy graduates go on to do?
Philosophy graduates are found working for almost every type of employer in the public, private and not-for-profit sectors. Some graduates continue to master's-level studies; philosophy, at Newcastle University, has a thriving postgraduate programme that you can apply for.
You could go into roles such as:
- Consultant
- Business Analyst
- Solicitor
- Health Service Manager
- Teacher
- Civil Service Manager
I initially went into project management in the construction industry before starting my own business. I’m now a professional brewer. My philosophy degree was useful to my career because it’s helped me to come up with ideas and think outside the box.