Philosophy Careers

A major in philosophy not only cultivates critical judgment and problem-solving abilities, but also a sensitivity to social, moral and political issues both historical and contemporary that compliments any future role a graduate might assume. The study of philosophy prepares students for a diverse range of careers in such fields as:

• Law
  
• Banking
  
• Management
  
• Systems Analysis
  
• Education
  
• Government
  
• Medicine
  
• Social Services
  
• Publishing
  
• Criminal Justice
  
• Advertising

"For me, philosophy was never just a major, but a way to look at the world. I'll never forget my first philosophy class: as I sat and listened to the professor, I finally realized that there were other people in the world who thought they way I did. Prior to that, I'd always felt different and high school friends told me that I thought "too much." But my philosophy courses helped me see that my view of the world was valid and that the questions I asked, of myself and others, were important, even if they didn't have definitive answers. I've never regretted earning my BA in philosophy. My philosophy courses strengthened my writing and reasoning skills and pushed me to expand my thinking in ways that no other classes ever did. Philosophy has made me a stronger individual." - Jenny Loomis, Class of 2000

Nearly 60 percent of Mount Mary philosophy graduates have an advanced degree and more than 30 percent of philosophy majors throughout the country in the last 20 years presently have a master’s degree or higher in a large variety of fields. There are more than 80 Ph.D. granting institutions within our country. Recently graduates of the Mount Mary’s program have gone on to graduate programs at George Washington University, Marquette University and Northern Illinois University.

The following websites will provide information on graduate programs:

The Real Guide to Grad School - Philosophy Departments

The Philosophical Gourmet Report - A Realistic Perspective on Graduate Study

Graduate School Programs in Continental Philosophy

A graduate education at either the master’s or doctoral level provides the opportunity to focus on an area of special philosophical interest and importance. You might choose to further prepare for a career in teaching, research, clergy, business, fine art, or to enhance another professional degree.

To learn more about careers in Philosophy, visit APA - Philosophy as a Profession.