Philosophy has to do with critically analyzing fundamental issues and questions such as the meaning of life, nature of reality, knowledge, truth, right, and wrong, etc. Philosophy is a course that encourages its students to think, ask questions and try to argue things through.
The study of Philosophy helps to hone one’s ability to reason effectively, formulate logical arguments and write persuasively. Generally, the course helps to improve your logical and critical thinking. Students of Philosophy write lots of essays and debate different philosophical theories. Philosophy also allows its students to further diversify ones studies into various fields. This leads us to the purpose of this article. Many wonder what can be done with a degree in Philosophy, as it is not strictly defined as a professional course. This article aims to answer this question. This post provides you with the various career opportunities available to a graduate of Philosophy in the corporate world.
Career Opportunities in Philosophy in Nigeria
Undergraduate course
Studying Philosophy as an undergraduate course takes four years to complete in Nigerian universities. Philosophy is oftentimes classified as a degree in the humanities. However, the course has ties with the sciences too.
Aspects of Philosophy studied in Nigerian universities include:
- Logic
- Philosophy of mind
- Metaphysics
- Ethics
- Philosophy of science
- Political philosophy.
Skills acquired and developed while studying philosophy
- The ability to formulate and solve problems
- The ability to analyse hypothesis and assumptions and suggest other possible explanations
- The ability to objectively analyze a position
- The ability to analyze, develop and formulate logical arguments
- Philosophy informs students so they can make informed decisions with proper knowledge of the consequences of their actions
- The ability to write and speak clearly and effectively
- Questioning and reasoning
- Analytical thinking
The skills obtained while studying Philosophy and mentioned above are transferrable skills that are needed in other professions and sectors. These skills are of benefit in professions that require problem-solving skills and the ability to analyze information and make decisions based on critical thinking.
For example, students of Philosophy who specialize in ethics are able to apply their knowledge on medical teams and are able to influence the decisions being made.
Students who study political philosophy are fit for roles such as news reporting on political affairs
Career Opportunities
Below are career opportunities available to graduates of Philosophy in Nigeria.
- Careers in teaching
A graduate of philosophy can go into the teaching profession at any level; primary, secondary or tertiary level. The study of Philosophy allows its students to develop excellent communications and critical thinking abilities which is essential for a teaching career.
All you will need to do is pursue an additional professional teaching qualification. This is required in order to get into the teaching profession. In order to be able to teach at tertiary institutions, one will need to have taken advanced courses such as Masters or doctorate degree. Graduates of Philosophy are best for the field of research because of their ability to engage in arguments in their undergraduate years. If one wishes to get into the academic research line, one must show expertise in ones chosen field of specialization.
· Careers in the public sector
Graduates of Philosophy are well suited for roles in the public sector which includes state ministries etc. Philosophy enables its students to have a deeper insight and knowledge of societal issues and how the mind works. This is vital in the administration of duties in the public service.
Careers in the public sector vary according to ones specialization. Those who study philosophy are well-placed for careers in the public sector since their degree has helped them develop an understanding of complex societal issues and world affairs, as well as general analytical abilities.
Sectors, where the services of Philosophers are needed, include:
- Administrative roles within the civil service and Government
- Administrative roles in Health services
- Administrative roles in Police forces and Armed forces.
· Careers in publishing and journalism
Publishing involves the production of magazines, books, newspapers and academic journals both online and offline. In this digital world, a career in publishing is a very good one for a graduate of Philosophy. One can work choose to with a media outlet or freelance and publish e-books and post articles on his/her own blog. When looking at a career in publishing, ensure you focus on a particular field and become an expert in it. Other careers in publishing include roles in editorial, production, marketing and sales.
- Journalism
Journalism focuses on research, writing, editing, presenting and various forms of broadcasting and multimedia. In order to be successful in this field, one needs to gain work experience and develop a portfolio of journalistic works.
· Careers in law
A degree in Philosophy is a good foundation for a legal career. Law requires a great deal of research, analysis of arguments, formulation of logical arguments etc. Therefore, a graduate of Philosophy who already has these skills will find it easier to navigate through the sometimes complex fields of law. Indeed, there are certain roles in the fields of law that require that one has law qualifications while there are others such as research, secretarial and paralegal positions, in which the graduate of Philosophy can easily learn on the job.
· Careers in psychotherapy and counselling
Professionals in the fields of counseling are required to have excellent communication skills and adequate knowledge of psychological and emotional processes. This is needed in order to interact with individuals and couples during therapy sessions. Thus, a graduate of Philosophy is well equipped to take up this role.
Other opportunities available to graduates of Philosophy include:
- Public relations
- Human Resources
- Advertising
- Banking
- The sciences
- Religion
- Business
- International diplomacy
- Social work
- Medical management
- Advertising, marketing and public relations agencies
- Management consultancies
- Educational institutions
- Charities
- Accountancy firms
- Recruitment agencies.