Philosophy
Philosophy Heading link
Many employers and professional programs are looking for people who can reason well, articulate a viewpoint, defend their beliefs in writing, and solve very general abstract problems – the very skills that are preeminently developed by a philosophical education. Studies include a general knowledge of the philosophical tradition and emphasize clear thinking, chains of reasoning, sound argument, and effective communication.
Philosophy majors at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) enjoy small classes and direct contact with award-winning professors. Graduates who have kept in touch with the department have noted how helpful their philosophical training has been in developing their job skills. Additionally, the department hosts The Philosophy Club, which brings your favorite subject outside the classroom with movie screenings, talks by faculty and graduate students, outings to cultural events, discussions of real-world ethical issues, and more!
See how other students found their fit below with this major!
Alumni Highlights Heading link
Below is a sample of how UIC alumni have applied their Philosophy major to a professional path!
- Chicago Deputy Director, New America
- Director of Business Development, Taylor Farms
- Director, Title IX Office, Wake Forest University
- Professor of Philosophy, DePaul University
- Regional Branch Operations Manager, Austin Public Library
- Sr. Regulatory Specialist, Abbott
- Sr. Staff Technical Writer, Scientific Games
- Sr. Manager, Talent Acquisition, CVS Health
- VP, Business Process Lead and Solutions Architect, Wells Fargo Capital Finance
- VP of Technology, Vibes
Unique Skills and Competencies Heading link
In addition to the foundation set of skills and competencies you will gain in any liberal arts and science major, there are also unique skills and perspectives you gain from your Philosophy major. Review the list below to learn more:
- Awareness of a range of historical and contemporary approaches to fundamental questions about the nature of reality, knowledge, and value
- Understand, summarize, and evaluate difficult texts
- Critically evaluate claims, evidence, and arguments
- Develop and defend arguments in support of a position
- Ability to think carefully about the consequences of different courses of action
- Ability to think creatively about possible solutions to problems
- Approach questions from a variety of perspectives
- Ability to write and speak clearly and effectively
- Engage in productive dialogue with people who hold opposing views
Industry Clusters Heading link
There are many work place settings, industries, and career areas you can apply your major based on your professional interests. Below is a sample list of industry clusters that other Philosophy majors have transitioned into professionally. What type of setting or career focus appeals to you?
- Arts, Media, and Communications
- Business and Entrepreneurship
- Criminology and Law Enforcement
- Cultural and Museum Studies
- Education
- Engineering and Technology
- Government, International Affairs, and Public Service
- Healthcare and Wellness
- Law and Legal Services
- Marketing, Advertising, and Public Relations
- Science and Research
- Social Services
Meet Claudia Debruyn! Heading link
“I went into college wanting to know how to think. I took my first course in the theory of knowledge. I noted the small classroom size and professor who raised important questions and facilitated meaningful discussions. I began to notice a shift in the way I approached difficult questions. I was taking different perspectives and evaluating arguments on a deeper level. As a pre-med student, I enjoy philosophical courses outside of pre-med requisites because I feel like I have developed into a person with a deeper sense of what it means to be human. A philosophy major helps you understand the importance of sound logic.”