Choosing your Degree Course – Philosophy

Why Choose Philosophy and What Can You Get Out of It?

Many people don’t truly understand what the study of philosophy is, so here is the dictionary definition – the study of the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, and existence, especially when considered as an academic discipline. If you’re considering a philosophy degree and you haven’t studied it at GCSE or A-Level, then you’ll need to be able to think deeply and beyond the parameters that we currently set in our life.

Moreover, you’ll have to be able to express your ideas in open debate and be willing to write long continuous prose. Universities offer both BSc and BA options in Philosophy and Philosophy with another subject, with BA being the most common.

Where can Philosophy take you?

There is no obvious job as a follow on to philosophy as there is in medicine or other similar jobs. Unfortunately, unless you make a name for yourself, by simply thinking of a new philosophical concept and write a book about it, the most common job after University is teaching. While other people have become barristers, solicitors, civil service fast streamers or government officers. The good thing about a philosophy degree is that it will show you are able to think deeply into certain subjects and then present your findings in both open debate and in written reports.

Civil Service Fast Streamers

What did you say? This is a graduate programme to prepare them for positions high in the civil service and will include postings in government departments and agencies. The idea of this is for you to gain some experience in all areas of the civil service but will be confined to a specific range of work such as policy or corporate services. Starting salaries are approximately £26000 and can increase to £45000 depending on promotion.

Local Government Officers

These people aid the council in creating local policy and ensure that these policies are implemented in the long run, while ensuring that all services are provided for the local people. There are plenty of Local Government Officer jobs available in different sectors, such as finance, travel etc. With this means that there are plenty of opportunities for promotion and movement into management or senior positions and consequently a higher pay scale. Typical starting salaries range from £16000-£20000 and with experience and promotion can rise up to £30000 and more.

 

Remember that you don’t always have to enter a job that is related to your degree. Employers are looking for your transferable skills that you will be able to use from your university degree and school life that will be helpful to complete their jobs.