Does anyone know the earning potential of a Philosophy graduate?

ILW

TopQuark wrote: »

In my own work experience (hard science), a philosophy degree is seen (rightly or wrongly) as 'arm-waving'.

That's not to say that the subject itself isn't immensely interesting and important. However, I'd echo the thoughts of other posters and say that it is not viewed as being particularly practical.

Another useful tip for the world of work is 'nobody likes a smart alec', especially not a teenage smart alec.

Probably one of the best bits of advice to be posted today.

rageagainstessays

TopQuark wrote: »

Another useful tip for the world of work is 'nobody likes a smart alec', especially not a teenage smart alec.

duly noted.

Pricivius

Which has been more useful, my philosophy-based degree or my law conversion degree? Law degree, every day of the week and twice on Sunday. I struggled to get any decent job with the philosophy-based degree as no one knew what to do with me or what it really meant to them and their business. I was fighting a battle demonstrating how I would fit it and what I could do for them. On the other hand, once a lawyer, always a lawyer (unless you do something really bad) so it's a fantastic position if you can get there and opens many doors to other things you may not have considered.

Can you become a lawyer with a 2.ii? Yes. Whilst firms may advertise no applicants below a 2.i, there are legitimate ways around this. It is extremely difficult, but if you are committed and confident enough and can show you have what it takes, it can happen.

Would I do a straight law degree if I had my time again? No, but then I'm not a career-minded high flyer and I enjoyed the years of random jobs and character building rejection. It certainly shaped me.

Savvy_Sue

From DH's experience, it entirely depends on your chosen career field.

He has a joint degree in Maths with Philosophy. Spent a year selling books freelance (earning not a lot). Spent some time working in a University bookshop (earning a bit more). Went into computer programming and started earning serious money. Came out of that and went into the voluntary sector (earning a lot less). He's now managing a small charity and earning a little bit more than our recently graduated son who is ... programming computers.

If the law doesn't work out, then I hope you're into computer programming, although that's not a reliable way to earn money either.

notanewuser

I know quite a few philosophy graduates. Not one earns more than £26k.

Tiglath

My stepson's a Philosophy graduate, currently doing a Masters in public policy. His goal is to work overseas for an NGO of some kind - obviously a little way into the future. No idea what the earnings potential is, but I wouldn't say it's megabucks.

rageagainstessays

notanewuser wrote: »

I know quite a few philosophy graduates. Not one earns more than £26k.

With respect, I doubt that is true.
I know 3 philosophy graduates all of whom are doing rather well.

rageagainstessays

Tiglath wrote: »

My stepson's a Philosophy graduate, currently doing a Masters in public policy. His goal is to work overseas for an NGO of some kind - obviously a little way into the future. No idea what the earnings potential is, but I wouldn't say it's megabucks.

I don't think its megabucks, like I don't expect to be driving a lambo in 10 years- but I hope I'll be able to stretch to a BMW at least
If none of this works out, I'll just be an auditor.

rageagainstessays

I get that some people are trying to help- but I did not wake up one morning and think 'actually, I'll go and do a philosophy degree'- 2 years of thought have gone into this and I actually happen to be very good at Philosophy.

poet123

samc1234 wrote: »

I don't think its megabucks, like I don't expect to be driving a lambo in 10 years- but I hope I'll be able to stretch to a BMW at least
If none of this works out, I'll just be an auditor.

I suspect a Maths degree may be of use in that field.