Can You Find Employment with an MA/MS in Philosophy?

Many graduates from university find themselves in a diverse range of jobs, but the connection to their degree may not always be obvious. One such area that often raises questions is philosophy. With a Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Science (MS) in philosophy, are there viable career paths, and how can the skills one acquires be used beyond the academic domain?

Understanding Philosophy Degrees

Philosophy is a discipline that explores fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language. It encompasses a broad spectrum, from metaphysics and epistemology to ethics and political philosophy. An MA or MS in philosophy typically involves coursework that hones critical thinking, analysis, and the ability to construct and critique arguments.

Common Myths about Philosophy careers

One common myth is that a philosophy degree is merely theoretical and does little to prepare one for practical employment. However, many skills acquired during philosophy studies are highly transferable and valuable in the job market. These include:

Critical Thinking: Philosophy trains students to analyze information, consider multiple perspectives, and formulate reasoned arguments. Research Skills: Students learn to conduct in-depth research, analyze data, and apply systematic methodologies to solve complex problems. Writing: Clear and articulate communication is a core aspect of philosophical study, leading to strong writing and editing abilities. Problem Solving: The ability to tackle multifaceted issues with a logical and rational approach. Adaptability: Flexibility in adapting to new challenges and changing environments.

Job Prospects for Philosophy Graduates

While a direct relationship between a philosophy degree and a specific job may not always be apparent, an MA or MS in philosophy opens doors to a variety of career opportunities beyond academia. Here are some potential career paths and industries where these skills can be applied:

Communication and Publishing

Journalists, editors, and content creators in various sectors (including news, magazines, or books) benefit from the strong writing and research skills developed during philosophy studies. Additionally, marketing and public relations roles often require effective communication and strategic thinking, which are strengths of philosophy graduates.

Consulting and Strategy

Many consulting firms and strategy agencies seek individuals with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. The framework and methodologies learned in philosophy can be applied to business analysis, strategic planning, and corporate consulting.

Legal and Policy fields

Lawyers, policy analysts, and lawmakers value individuals with robust critical thinking and analytical skills. These skills are crucial in policy development, legal analysis, and advocacy.

Education

Educators, both in academia and in K-12 institutions, often require strong communicative and analytical skills. Philosophy graduates can find roles as lecturers, professors, or curriculum developers.

Human Resources and Management

HR professionals and managers can benefit significantly from philosophy graduates' ability to analyze complex work environments, understand human behavior, and communicate effectively with diverse teams.

Finding the Right Fit

While the skills gained through a philosophy degree are versatile, it's important to match one's interests and career goals carefully. Many philosophy graduates find that combining their degree with another field (such as business, law, or communications) can broaden their career opportunities further.

Conclusion

Can you find employment with an MA/MS in philosophy? The answer is a resounding yes, but it's about leveraging the wide range of skills acquired during the program to identify suitable career paths. Whether in communication, consulting, education, or other fields, the ability to think critically, communicate effectively, and solve complex problems is highly valued.