Philosophy navigates human thought, offering an understanding of fundamental questions about existence, morality, and knowledge.
Beyond fostering critical thinking and intellectual curiosity, a degree in philosophy cultivates skills highly sought after in lots of professions. Graduates often find themselves in careers such as law, journalism, education, business, and public policy.
The ability to analyse complex issues, articulate compelling arguments, and engage in interesting discussions help philosophers to thrive in roles that demand clarity of thought and effective communication. The adaptability and broad perspective gained through philosophical studies set people up for success in a rapidly evolving job market, making philosophy not just a field of study, but a foundation for a choice of careers.
- Actively engage in public discourse, advocating for social justice, human rights, and political reform.
- Instil critical thinking skills and nurture future generations with a deeper appreciation for knowledge and inquiry.
- Play a role in environmental advocacy, promoting sustainable practices and ethical considerations in ecological decision-making.
- Symbolic logic
- Reason, argument, and analysis
- History of philosophy
- Sartre and existentialism
- Metaphysics
- Social and political theory
- Engaging with the humanities
Chat to a current philosophy student
Chat to a current philosophy student using UniBuddy.
Some conversation starters for you:
- Ask which modules they really enjoyed.
- Find out how easy it was for them to make friends on their course.
- Do they have any tips on your personal statement?
- Did they do anything to prep for uni before they went?
- Are there books, podcasts or YouTube channels they would recommend?
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- Analytical reasoning skills
- Accessing and evaluating academic sources
- Historical understanding
- Precision and attention to detail
- Communication skills, both written and verbal
- Open mindedness
- Cultural awareness
- Flexibility in thinking
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Getting in: Entry requirements
Find out more about what you'll need to study philosophy at university or as an apprenticeship.
Average requirements for undergraduate degrees
Entry requirements differ between university and course, but this should give you a guide to what is usually expected from philosophy applicants.
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Choose your own philosophy adventure
A free activity on OpenLearn that explores key questions in philosophy.
- Are there any books, articles or philosophers that have influenced your thinking?
- Perhaps there are philosophical questions that you find intriguing – mention why it’s interesting and any conclusions you’ve come to.
- Demonstrate your ability to engage with difficult questions and uncertainties. Are there examples you can share from school or personally?
- It’s essential to have an open mind in philosophy, so be sure to show examples of where you’ve considered diverse perspectives on a particular topic.
- If there’s a particular area in philosophy that you love, such as ethics or metaphysics, talk about why that’s especially interesting to you.