Philosophy teaches you how to think for yourself and how to analyse and communicate ideas in an understandable, balanced and well thought-out manner. You are taught to think through an argument logically and work independently, encorporating all your ideas into a clear essay. This logical way of thinking is a key skill that all employers look for. In fact, in 2013 91% of Philosophy graduates were in work or further study six months after graduation.
Career facts
You may feel that a degree in Philosophy will only be helpful if you wish to go further into academia, however this isn't true. Philosophy allows you to gain many academic skills that are vital in any enviroment, you will learn to analyse other philosophers arguements and justify them with clear and logical reasoning; a core part of any philosophy degree. These skills can then be applied in all aspects of the work force with many graduates finding jobs in finance, public relations, management and marketing.
Philosophy at Southampton
Throughout your course you will continually fine-tune your logical, clear and systematic modes of arguing whilst acquiring the ability to think in a complex and in many cases abstract way, without getting lost in empty rhetoric.
You will emerge from your degree as a clear communicator with a creative and analytical mind - skills which are continually sought out by employers.
Philosophy gives you the skills to access careers that might normally be associated with other degree subjects, for example one of our recent graduates has gone into journalism, a career more associated with English, as an Editorial Intern working for the Mark Allen Group. Meanwhile, another of our students works as a Web Designer, a career you probably never thought a Philosopher would do.
Clear communication is a skill that philosophy instils, and a skill which I employ on a day-to-day basis when responding to a range of stakeholders. It is paramount in passing assessment centres and I believe will be increasingly valued as developed economies continue their shift toward service industries.