So, what is a philosophy major?
Philosophy is the study of ideas—about existence, morality, knowledge, logic, and human behavior. As a major, it challenges you to read complex texts, evaluate arguments, write persuasively, and think both deeply and clearly. You’ll explore the ideas of thinkers from ancient Greece to modern times and learn how to analyze the world from multiple perspectives.
What kind of courses will I take?
Expect to take classes like ethics, logic, metaphysics, epistemology (the study of knowledge), and political philosophy. Many programs also offer concentrations in areas like law, science, or religion. You might even dive into courses that intersect with computer science, psychology, or linguistics.
How this major levels up thinking and writing skills
Philosophy majors build serious mental muscle. You’ll learn how to spot weak arguments, write with precision, and question assumptions. These reasoning and critical thinking skills are incredibly valuable—not just in class, but in real life and in almost every profession.
Is philosophy the right fit for me?
If you love asking big questions, enjoy healthy debates, and find beauty in a well-structured argument, this could be your academic home. It's especially great for students who want flexibility in their career path and aren’t afraid to challenge themselves intellectually.
What are some common double philosophy majors and minors?
Philosophy is super versatile and pairs well with majors like political science, English, history, economics, or biology. It’s also a great minor if you’re majoring in pre-med, business, or computer science—adding depth to technical or specialized degrees.
What can I do with a philosophy degree?
More than you might think! Philosophy grads go into law, business, journalism, education, tech, government, and nonprofit work. It’s also a solid prep for grad school in a variety of fields. In fact, philosophy majors often score among the top on the LSAT and GRE exams.
Let’s bust a myth: Philosophy majors DO get jobs
There’s a big misconception that philosophy isn’t “practical.” But employers love philosophy grads for their ability to solve problems, think independently, and communicate clearly. The truth? Philosophy might be one of the most underrated pre-professional majors out there.
Notable schools with strong philosophy programs
You don’t have to go to the Ivy League to get a great philosophy education. Check out schools known for their standout philosophy departments:
Many liberal arts colleges also offer close-knit, discussion-based programs that philosophy students thrive in.
How do I pay for my philosophy degree?
Good news: You’ve got options. You can search specifically for scholarships for philosophy majors to get started. Or explore scholarships by major and check out Scholly Scholarships to unlock even more opportunities.
One easy way to win money for school is by entering the $2,000 No Essay Scholarship To view scholarship options at different colleges, Scout College Search.
A philosophy major isn’t just about asking “Why?”—it’s about learning how to think better, argue well, and live thoughtfully. Whether you want to be a lawyer, a coder, a teacher, or an entrepreneur, this major gives you a foundation that never goes out of style. And if you're curious about where philosophy can take you, start by exploring your scholarship options and building your school list today.
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