Careers in Philosophy
A minor in philosophy is an excellent preparation for graduate studies in law, medicine, business, social work, psychology, and other areas. Philosophy develops the reading, writing, and research skills that graduate students need. Coursework in philosophy is highly recommended for students who will take graduate entrance exams such as LSAT, GMAT, and GRE. Philosophy majors have some of the highest average scores on those exams, and a philosophy minor also should be a valuable preparation for these tests. Exploring the world of philosophy is an enriching experience, and students will be encouraged to continue to delve into philosophical questions outside of the classroom. Philosophy is a nice complement to many majors and future careers. The skills you develop in philosophy classes are attractive to employers in many different fields, whether in business, nonprofit work, or government. Some employment opportunities relevant to philosophy are:
Civil & Criminal Law Ministry Psychology & Counseling Teaching Management
Finance Consulting Research Publishing Government Employment
Journalism Marketing & Public Relations Computer Engineering
Did you know that the following well known people have been Philosophy majors as an undergraduate?
- Rudy Giuliani, former mayor of New York and an ex-Republican candidate
- Stephen Breyer and David Souter, Supreme Court Justices
- George Stephanopoulos, television journalist and former Press Secretary for Pres. Clinton
- George Soros, financier and philanthropist
- Bill Miller, renowned mutual-fund manager
- Aung San Suu Kyi, winner of a Nobel Peace Prize for her work in Burma
- Richard Gere, actor
- Woody Allen, movie director, writer, actor, comedian
- Jay Leno, comedian and TV host
- Ethan Coen, co-recipient of an Academy Award for best director, 2007
- Philip Glass, American composer
- Umberto Eco, novelist (e.g., of The Name of the Rose) and academic
- Harrison Ford, actor
- Robert McNamara, former Secretary of Defense and former CEO of Ford
- Elmore Leonard, novelist (e.g., of Get Shorty)
- Elie Wiesel, writer and Nobel Peace Prize winner
- Phil Jackson, basketball coach who has won 9 NBA titlesSteve Martin, actor, comedian, writer