“What are you going to do with your philosophy degree?”

Philosophy majors get this question a lot, and most of the time, it’s one they’d rather not answer. Truth be told, many people perceive philosophy as a useless degree and that graduates either end up jobless or directionless in their careers. However, this is a myth.

Believe it or not, philosophy has been ranked as the highest-paying humanities degree, as students become well-equipped with skills that employers demand, such as critical thinking, persuasion, communication, problem-solving, and research. It’s no question that they have their earning power in today’s market.

But, returning to the question: what can someone do with a philosophy degree?

The answer to that may be lengthier than you expected. Philosophy majors tend to go different ways after getting their degree, with the most common choices becoming a lawyer, clergy, professor, writer, paralegal, or social worker. But some hustle into the corporate world, landing high-paying jobs, contrary to the belief that philosophy majors end up jobless.

In this blog post, get ready to discover the 20 most popular jobs for philosophy majors, which, predictably, have nothing to do with philosophy (or maybe that’s just what we tend to think). To spice things up, the list also provides average annual salaries obtained from surveys and studies conducted by Payscale.

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1. Software Engineer: $106,756

The scenario of philosophy majors entering the tech field is more common than you might imagine, with one potential career path being a software engineer. A software engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining software applications and systems. Their duties may include analyzing user needs, writing code, debugging programs, and collaborating with other team members to ensure the successful implementation of software projects.

With skills such as analytical thinking, problem solving, communication abilities, ethical awareness, and adaptability to software engineering, philosophy graduates are well-suited for success in this innovative industry. However, employers would still prefer if applicants already have coding abilities and other technical skills, which you can get through online courses and boot camps.

2. Economist: $105,097

Economists play a crucial role in analyzing and understanding the complex dynamics of economic systems. They conduct research, collect data, and apply financial theories to examine various aspects of producing, consuming, and distributing goods and services.

While it might seem that only economics, mathematics, statistics, or a related field can lead to a career as an economist, philosophy majors offer a strong foundation for this profession. Philosophy majors are exposed to various disciplines and critical thinking skills throughout their program. The background of philosophy majors in economics, particularly those who have studied Marx’s theories and other influential economists such as Adam Smith and John Stuart Mill, provides a strong foundation.

3. Data Engineer: $96,170

Coming in with another tech role, philosophy graduates would do well as data engineers. Data engineers are crucial in designing, building, and maintaining the infrastructure for data generation, storage, and analysis. They also work on optimizing data workflows, implementing data quality checks, and ensuring data security and compliance with regulations.

With the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) and the increasing importance of ethical considerations in data-driven decision-making, the background of philosophy majors in data engineering becomes particularly valuable. Philosophy majors are trained in critical thinking, ethics, and philosophical reasoning, which are essential for grappling with the ethical implications of AI and data usage.

4. Creative Director: $95,597

Philosophy is art; hence, most philosophy majors pursue their passion in the creative direction, becoming a Creative Director. Creative Directors are responsible for leading creative teams in developing and executing innovative and impactful visual and conceptual ideas across various mediums, such as advertising, branding, marketing, and design.

5. Front End Engineer: $94,965

Philosophy majors bring critical thinking, a deep understanding of human behavior, and abstract thinking skills to the role of Creative Director. Their ability to analyze complex ideas, communicate effectively, and appreciate aesthetics and ethics uniquely suits them for this position.

Front-end engineers are responsible for designing and implementing the visual and interactive elements of websites and applications that users interact with directly. They work closely with designers and back-end developers to translate design mockups and user experience requirements into functional and visually appealing web interfaces.

Philosophy majors are adept at understanding complex systems and abstract concepts, essential for designing and implementing user-friendly interfaces. Their focus on ethical considerations and user-centric thinking aligns with user experience design principles, making them strong candidates to become front-end engineers.

6. Financial Analyst: $93,062

One of the most popular jobs for philosophy majors in finance is becoming a Financial Analyst. Financial analysts play a pivotal role in assessing financial data, evaluating investment opportunities, and providing recommendations to businesses, investors, and individuals. They analyze financial statements, market trends, and economic indicators to forecast future performance and mitigate risks.

With a vital skill in synthesizing disparate data sources, identifying patterns, and making informed decisions, philosophy majors are well-suited for the rigorous analytical demands of the financial analyst role.

7. Product Designer: $90,335

Product designers are responsible for conceptualizing, designing, and iterating products that meet the needs and preferences of users. They conduct user research, create wireframes and prototypes, and iterate on designs based on feedback and usability testing. They aim to create intuitive, visually appealing, and functional products that enhance user experiences.

Combined with technical skills and philosophy majors’ soft skills in problem-solving, research, and communication, they bring a unique blend of creativity, empathy, and analytical rigor to product design.

8. Management Consultant: $86,626

Management consultants are professionals who provide strategic advice and guidance to organizations to help them improve their performance, efficiency, and overall effectiveness. They work closely with clients to identify business problems and opportunities, analyze data and processes, and develop tailored solutions and recommendations.

They work in a wide range of areas, which philosophy majors are skilled in as they are adaptable. Additionally, philosophy majors possess strong critical thinking skills, enabling them to analyze complex problems, identify root causes, and develop innovative solutions.

9. News Reporter: $85,291

Despite news reporters directly graduating from journalism programs, the background of philosophy majors uniquely equips them for the role. News reporters are responsible for gathering information, conducting interviews, and writing news stories for print, broadcast, or online media outlets. They investigate current events, analyze data, and present factual and unbiased information to the public.

Philosophy majors are trained to analyze complex issues, question assumptions, and evaluate evidence, essential skills for conducting thorough research and verifying sources as news reporters, making them viable for the role. Additionally, their ethical awareness and commitment to truth-seeking align with the principles of journalism, ensuring integrity and accuracy in their reporting.

10. UX Researcher: $81,842

A more specific field of product design is UX Research, where professionals focus on understanding user needs, behaviors, and motivations to inform the design of digital products and experiences. UX Researchers conduct various research methods such as interviews, surveys, usability testing, and data analysis to gather insights into user preferences and pain points.

Being enormously skilled in research and understanding that many people have different perspectives and preferences, philosophy majors make a good fit for the role of UX Researcher. In fact, this is one of the most popular fields that philosophy majors pursue, and some share their experiences transitioning to this career online.

11. Investment Associate: $75,455

An investment associate is responsible for assisting in analyzing and managing investment portfolios. They look at places where people invest money, like the stock market or companies, and try to find the best options, including creating reports and presentations. Overall, they help people make intelligent decisions about where to put their money so it can grow over time.

With a philosophy major’s strong argumentation, persuasive, and critical thinking skills, they are well-suited for this job because they can effectively communicate their findings and recommendations to clients and colleagues.

12. Instructional Designer: $74,458

An instructional designer is a professional who designs and develops educational materials and learning experiences. Similar to an academic professor or instructor, their responsibilities include designing curriculum, developing online courses, creating interactive multimedia materials, and designing assessments, but without the teaching part.

Philosophy majors perfectly fit the job because they have often studied the philosophy of education and aesthetics as part of their academic courses. This background equips them with a deep understanding of educational theories and principles and an appreciation for the beauty and creativity in learning experiences. This combination of knowledge and skills makes instructional design a popular choice for graduates.

13. Content Manager: $73,743

In today’s digital age, the role of a content manager has become vital. They oversee content creation, publication, and management on various platforms such as websites, social media, and digital marketing channels. They develop content strategies, plan editorial calendars, and track performance metrics to optimize content effectiveness.

It’s a fun and popular choice for philosophy majors, as they fit the job well. They often excel in writing and expressing ideas clearly and persuasively, which are essential skills for developing compelling content.

14. Financial Advisor: $67,602

Financial advisors are professionals who guide and advise individuals or organizations on matters related to their finances. Many individuals find it daunting to manage their finances alone; hence, the role is in high demand. Financial advisors help clients manage their investments, plan for retirement, navigate tax strategies, and achieve their financial goals.

Like in the Investment Associate role, philosophy majors possess strong persuasion skills and ethical awareness, ensuring they prioritize clients’ best interests and adhere to ethical standards in their financial recommendations.

15. Project Managers: $67,554

Another role famous for philosophy majors is that of a project manager. A project manager oversees the planning, execution, and completion of projects within an organization. They coordinate resources, set timelines, monitor progress, and ensure that projects are delivered on time and within budget.

Philosophy majors often have a holistic approach, essential for project managers. They’re good at paying attention to details and taking responsibility for doing things right. Because of these skills, they are invaluable assets in navigating complex projects to successful completion.

16. Market Research Analyst: $66,955

Market research analysts study market conditions to help companies understand what products people want, how much they’re willing to pay, and where they prefer to shop. They collect and analyze data about consumer preferences, market trends, and competitors to provide insights that inform business decisions.

With their ability to think critically and analyze complex ideas, philosophy majors are well-suited for roles as market research analysts. This is a highly sought-after entry-level position for fresh graduates, as it requires intense research skills and the ability to synthesize information from various data sources, which is crucial for interpreting market trends.

17. Data Analyst: $62,715

A data analyst collects, processes, and analyzes data to help organizations make informed decisions. They often work with large data sets and cutting-edge technology, providing valuable insights that drive business growth and innovation.

It is a rapidly growing field, and philosophy graduates excel as data analysts because of their strong analytical and critical thinking skills. They are trained to evaluate arguments, identify logical fallacies, and analyze complex ideas, essential for interpreting and drawing conclusions from data sets.

18. Marketing Specialist: $54,590

Marketing specialists promote products or services to target audiences through various marketing channels. They are crucial for attracting customers, building brand awareness, and driving sales, so marketing specialists play a vital role in the success of organizations. Additionally, marketing is a dynamic field that offers opportunities for growth and advancement, making it a popular career choice.

Philosophy majors often understand human behavior and ethical considerations, allowing them to create marketing campaigns that resonate with audiences and align with organizational values. Their unique combination of analytical thinking, communication skills, and ethical reasoning makes them valuable assets in driving successful marketing campaigns.

19. Human Resources Coordinator: $48,200

One of the most popular jobs for philosophy majors is the role of Human Resources Coordinator. They are responsible for various administrative tasks within an organization’s HR department. Tasks could include helping with hiring new employees, keeping track of employee records, organizing training sessions, and being the go-to person for employees with questions or concerns about HR-related matters.

Philosophy majors fit well into the role of human resources coordinator due to their strong interpersonal and communication skills. They often understand ethics and social dynamics and approach HR-related issues with sensitivity and empathy. Additionally, their problem-solving ability and sound judgment can be valuable when handling employee relations matters and resolving conflicts.

20. Sales Development Representative: $43,229

Another popular career path for philosophy majors is entering the sales world. Sales Development Representatives (SDRs) are responsible for generating new business opportunities by prospecting and qualifying leads. They typically work in sales teams and focus on outbound activities such as cold calling, emailing, and networking to identify potential customers and initiate conversations with them.

Since philosophy majors are skilled in critical thinking, analyzing complex ideas, and articulating their thoughts persuasively, they excel as SDRs. These skills are essential for engaging potential customers and conveying the value of products or services, making them valuable assets in driving business growth and success.

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Conclusion: Willing to take the leap?

Now, when asked, ‘What are you going to do with your philosophy degree?’ You’ll never run out of answers!

The key takeaway is: don’t confine yourself to a box that doesn’t exist. Whether philosophy majors or not, we embark on a unique journey. It’s okay to change career paths or feel uncertain about the future; it’s okay to study philosophy and then suddenly become a data engineer or salesperson. It’s okay.

Pursue your dreams fearlessly. Don’t shy away from chasing your aspirations and reaching new heights because the sky is the limit— and it is, in fact, limitless. You may stumble and encounter challenges occasionally, but remember— one must imagine Sisyphus happy. Your dream job is out there, waiting for you to find it and take the leap.

The question is, are you willing to?

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Sources

See here.

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• Bouchrika, Imed, PhD. “Philosophy Careers: 2024 Guide to Career Paths, Options & Salary.” Research.com. Accessed on April 10, 2024, https://research.com/careers/philosophy-careers#1.
• Lam, Bourree. “The Earning Power of Philosophy Majors.” The Atlantic, September 3, 2015. https://www.theatlantic.com/business/archive/2015/09/philosophy-majors-out-earn-other-humanities/626783/.
• Ethical Journalism Network. “The Five Core Principles of Journalism.” Cited in Foreign Media Association. Accessed on April 10, 2024. [https://fmaturkey.org/five-core-principles/]
• Fain, Paul. “Philosophy Degrees and Sales Jobs.” Inside Higher Ed, August 01, 2019. Accessed on April 10, 2024. https://www.insidehighered.com/news/2019/08/02/new-data-track-graduates-six-popular-majors-through-their-first-three-jobs.
• Liberty Fund, Inc. “Famous Economists and Political Philosophers.” The Online Library of Liberty. Accessed on April 10, 2024. https://oll.libertyfund.org/pages/famous-economists-and-political-philosophers.
• McDarrah, Theodore. “Why Tech Companies Need Philosophers On The Payroll.” Forbes, July 10, 2023. Accessed on April 10, 2024. https://www.forbes.com/sites/teddymcdarrah/2023/07/10/why-tech-companies-need-philosophers-on-the-payroll/?sh=36ea9a23613e.
• Payscale. “Bachelor of Arts (BA), Philosophy Degree.” Accessed on April 10, 2024, https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Degree=Bachelor_of_Arts_(BA)%2C_Philosophy/Salary.
• Schroeder, Bernhard. “The Data Analytics Profession And Employment Is Exploding—Three Trends That Matter.” Forbes, June 11, 2021. Accessed on April 10, 2024. Available at: https://www.forbes.com/sites/bernhardschroeder/2021/06/11/the-data-analytics-profession-and-employment-is-exploding-three-trends-that-matter/?sh=119a47c93f81.
• Stojkovska, Marija. “From Philosophy to UX Design.” Medium, September 30, 2022. Accessed on April 10, 2024. https://bootcamp.uxdesign.cc/from-philosophy-to-ux-design-e7623a8db02a.
• Weinberg, Justin. “Philosophy Majors Make More Money Than Majors in Any Other Humanities Field.” Daily Nous, January 3, 2019. https://dailynous.com/2019/01/03/philosophy-majors-make-money-majors-humanities-field/.

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