Philosophy

<h2 id="section---IsPhilosophyForMe">Is Philosophy For Me?</h2> <h3 id="section---CareerOverview">Career Overview</h3> <p>Philosophy explores abstract and elusive ideas, using logic and reflection to answer age-old questions that delve into the nature of being, the concepts of right and wrong and morals. Many students study philosophy to become philosophers, writers or researchers, but the field actually offers a great deal of knowledge that can be applied to a wide range of careers. For example, some students major in philosophy in preparation for further education in other fields, such as business or law, which utilize the skills of reasoning, logic and critical thinking and the capacity to analyze complex and abstract information. Others go on to earn a Ph.D. in order to pursue further research or teaching opportunities. </p> <h3 id="section---EmploymentInformation">Employment Information</h3> <p>According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for postsecondary philosophy teachers was $64,990 in 2012, and attorneys earned $113,530 (<i>www.bls.gov</i>). The BLS also predicts that from 2012-2022, postsecondary philosophy teaching jobs will increase by 19%, and lawyer jobs will increase by 10%. </p> <h2 id="section---HowCanIWorkInPhilosophy">How Can I Work in Philosophy?</h2> <h3 id="section---Education">Education</h3> <p>Philosophy degrees are available through the doctoral level. Common courses in a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy degree program may include reasoning and argumentation, mind and mechanics ethics and existentialism, as well as the study of ancient and modern philosophy. A Master of Arts in Philosophy or Ph.D. in Philosophy program will likely include additional research opportunities, as well as courses that further explore symbolic logic, continental philosophy and other topics in value theory. A bachelor's or master's degree in philosophy may allow graduates to become authors or researchers, while a Ph.D. would allow them join the realm of academia. </p> <h3 id="section---RequiredSkills">Required Skills</h3> <p>Individuals who plan to study philosophy should have strong debating, organizational and problem-solving skills. This field also requires attention to detail, a passion for reading and the ability to write with clarity.</p>