Philosophy : Your skills

Employers are interested in your understanding of the skills developed through your philosophy degree and how you link these to the requirements of the job. Although philosophy is generally considered to be a non-vocational degree, many employers value the specific skills that the study of philosophy develops.

Studying philosophy helps you to develop the ability to:

• analyse and construct sound arguments;
• think logically and critically about ideas and issues;
• distinguish fine differences between views and find common ground;
• present ideas convincingly through well-constructed, systematic arguments;
• write clearly and persuasively;
• generate ideas and come up with solutions to problems;
• be open to new ideas and new ways of thinking.

You also gain many other general skills sought after by a range of employers. These include:

• self-motivation and the capacity for independent study and thought;
• clear communication and presentation;
• the ability to prioritise work and meet deadlines;
• flexibility;
• creativity;
• the ability to identify, absorb and sift complex information;
• teamwork;
• increased knowledge of and familiarity with information technology.

The Where Next? Unlocking the Potential of Your Philosophy Degree Employability Guide, available on the Higher Education Academy - Subject Centre for Philosophical and Religious Studies website, has more information on the skills gained through the study of philosophy.

Consider the skills developed on your course as well as through your other activities, such as paid work, volunteering, family responsibilities, sport, membership of societies, leadership roles, etc. Think about how these can be used as evidence of your skills and personal attributes. Then you can start to market and sell who you really are, identify what you may be lacking and consider how to improve your profile. Take a look at job application advice for some useful tips.