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Is a Philosophy degree worth it for low income student ?
Im in a senior in highschool whos interested in philosophy history and law but i dont want to have a meaningless degree and be in ridiculous amount of debt, Is it worth it or should i just do trade
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Joanette’s Answer
Hello Justin!
Always keep in mind that the most gratifying academic pursuit is the one that aligns with your passion and professional ambitions. While some may be lured by degrees that offer lucrative financial gains, I strongly advise you to strive for a career that lets you make a significant impact and aligns with your passion. A wise guide once shared with me, "Your passion is the compass to your success." This suggests that your most remarkable achievements will stem from deeply caring about your chosen discipline. The guide assured me that monetary rewards, career progression, and creative opportunities would naturally ensue.
I believe that a career that brings you happiness will also bring you satisfaction and a sense of fulfillment. It will give you the feeling of waking up each day to make a difference, rather than just to punch the clock for a job. I urge you to contemplate this question: "What would I pursue if money wasn't a factor?" Once you find your answer, pursue it with all your heart.
I wish you tremendous success as you chart your career journey. To ascertain whether you should continue with your interest in Philosophy, History, and Law, I recommend you seek job shadowing opportunities with seasoned professionals in these fields. This will provide you a sneak peek into their daily activities, enable you to ask questions, and gain valuable insights. I understand the temptation to chase a high-paying career, but it's equally important to love what you do. Consider job shadowing in various fields, then take some time to weigh the advantages and disadvantages to make the best decision for yourself.
Always keep in mind that the most gratifying academic pursuit is the one that aligns with your passion and professional ambitions. While some may be lured by degrees that offer lucrative financial gains, I strongly advise you to strive for a career that lets you make a significant impact and aligns with your passion. A wise guide once shared with me, "Your passion is the compass to your success." This suggests that your most remarkable achievements will stem from deeply caring about your chosen discipline. The guide assured me that monetary rewards, career progression, and creative opportunities would naturally ensue.
I believe that a career that brings you happiness will also bring you satisfaction and a sense of fulfillment. It will give you the feeling of waking up each day to make a difference, rather than just to punch the clock for a job. I urge you to contemplate this question: "What would I pursue if money wasn't a factor?" Once you find your answer, pursue it with all your heart.
I wish you tremendous success as you chart your career journey. To ascertain whether you should continue with your interest in Philosophy, History, and Law, I recommend you seek job shadowing opportunities with seasoned professionals in these fields. This will provide you a sneak peek into their daily activities, enable you to ask questions, and gain valuable insights. I understand the temptation to chase a high-paying career, but it's equally important to love what you do. Consider job shadowing in various fields, then take some time to weigh the advantages and disadvantages to make the best decision for yourself.
Benedicto Vega
I am a Tax Consultant for Deloitte's Private Wealth Team.
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Benedicto’s Answer
Navigating Your Future: Choosing Between Philosophy, Trade School, and Beyond
Deciding on an educational and career path as a senior in high school is a significant decision, especially when considering the financial implications and your long-term life goals. Your interest in philosophy, history, and law shows a keen mind for inquiry and reasoning, but it's equally important to weigh these interests against practical concerns like potential debt and job prospects.
1. Reflect on Your Lifestyle Goals
Begin by envisioning the lifestyle you aspire to lead. This isn't just about income but encompasses where you want to live, the kind of work-life balance you hope to achieve, whether you plan to start a family, and how you want to raise them. Different careers and educational paths can drastically shape these aspects of your life. For example, living in a major city often requires a higher income than a rural setting, and some careers are more demanding of your time than others.
2. Evaluate the Cost vs. Benefit of a Philosophy Degree
A degree in philosophy can be enriching and intellectually stimulating, offering skills in critical thinking, ethics, and communication that are valuable in many fields including law. However, it's crucial to consider the financial aspect. Research potential scholarships, grants, and low-cost educational options that could minimize debt. Look into the starting salaries and career trajectories for philosophy graduates and see how they align with your lifestyle aspirations.
3. Consider the Value of Trade Schools
Trade schools can be an excellent alternative, offering practical and specific skills that often lead directly to job opportunities. Many trades are in high demand, can be financially rewarding, and require less time and money than a four-year degree. This path might also provide more immediate job security and less student debt.
4. Explore Multiple Paths
Don't feel locked into a single path right away. The world is diverse, and your career can be too. It's perfectly acceptable to start in one area and pivot to another as you gain more experience and a clearer understanding of what you truly enjoy. For instance, you could start with a trade and later pursue a degree in philosophy or law part-time, or vice versa.
5. Aligning Career with Passion and Skill
Sometimes your passions might not align perfectly with financially lucrative careers. In such cases, consider focusing on building a career based on your strongest skills that also offers financial stability. With financial stability, you can afford to engage in your passions through hobbies, volunteering, or part-time work without the stress of financial strain.
6. Continuous Learning and Adaptability
Whatever path you choose, embrace learning and adaptability. Changing your mind and trying new things are not signs of failure but of growth. Each experience teaches you something valuable, moving you forward in your personal and professional life.
7. Long-Term Planning
Consider how you might blend your interests and skills into a career that satisfies both your intellectual passions and your lifestyle needs. For example, you might choose a career that's financially rewarding while setting a goal to retire early and devote more time to philosophical pursuits or non-profit work later in life.
This approach emphasizes thoughtful consideration and strategic planning, encouraging you to align your educational choices with both your personal values and practical realities. Remember, the path you choose now is not set in stone, but a thoughtful decision now can set the foundation for future success and fulfillment.
Deciding on an educational and career path as a senior in high school is a significant decision, especially when considering the financial implications and your long-term life goals. Your interest in philosophy, history, and law shows a keen mind for inquiry and reasoning, but it's equally important to weigh these interests against practical concerns like potential debt and job prospects.
1. Reflect on Your Lifestyle Goals
Begin by envisioning the lifestyle you aspire to lead. This isn't just about income but encompasses where you want to live, the kind of work-life balance you hope to achieve, whether you plan to start a family, and how you want to raise them. Different careers and educational paths can drastically shape these aspects of your life. For example, living in a major city often requires a higher income than a rural setting, and some careers are more demanding of your time than others.
2. Evaluate the Cost vs. Benefit of a Philosophy Degree
A degree in philosophy can be enriching and intellectually stimulating, offering skills in critical thinking, ethics, and communication that are valuable in many fields including law. However, it's crucial to consider the financial aspect. Research potential scholarships, grants, and low-cost educational options that could minimize debt. Look into the starting salaries and career trajectories for philosophy graduates and see how they align with your lifestyle aspirations.
3. Consider the Value of Trade Schools
Trade schools can be an excellent alternative, offering practical and specific skills that often lead directly to job opportunities. Many trades are in high demand, can be financially rewarding, and require less time and money than a four-year degree. This path might also provide more immediate job security and less student debt.
4. Explore Multiple Paths
Don't feel locked into a single path right away. The world is diverse, and your career can be too. It's perfectly acceptable to start in one area and pivot to another as you gain more experience and a clearer understanding of what you truly enjoy. For instance, you could start with a trade and later pursue a degree in philosophy or law part-time, or vice versa.
5. Aligning Career with Passion and Skill
Sometimes your passions might not align perfectly with financially lucrative careers. In such cases, consider focusing on building a career based on your strongest skills that also offers financial stability. With financial stability, you can afford to engage in your passions through hobbies, volunteering, or part-time work without the stress of financial strain.
6. Continuous Learning and Adaptability
Whatever path you choose, embrace learning and adaptability. Changing your mind and trying new things are not signs of failure but of growth. Each experience teaches you something valuable, moving you forward in your personal and professional life.
7. Long-Term Planning
Consider how you might blend your interests and skills into a career that satisfies both your intellectual passions and your lifestyle needs. For example, you might choose a career that's financially rewarding while setting a goal to retire early and devote more time to philosophical pursuits or non-profit work later in life.
This approach emphasizes thoughtful consideration and strategic planning, encouraging you to align your educational choices with both your personal values and practical realities. Remember, the path you choose now is not set in stone, but a thoughtful decision now can set the foundation for future success and fulfillment.
Updated
Karissa’s Answer
A philosophy undergraduate and law school is your best bet. You are right to be apprehensive. I have a bachelors in liberal arts. No jobs with healthcare and retirement benefits were available to me. I couldn't even get interviews. I was forced to go to graduate school. Bachelors in history or philosophy are the same as liberal arts. If you do not want to go to law or graduate school I suggest majoring in criminal justice.
Updated
Julia’s Answer
Hello Justin,
I hold a degree in History, specifically focused on European History. Although I didn't follow the conventional paths of education or law, my journey has been both challenging and rewarding. My career has spanned various sectors, including non-profit organizations, Operations, HR, Marketing, and even entrepreneurship.
Consider how you can apply the skills and knowledge you gain - such as research, analysis, critical thinking, and contextual understanding. These are valuable assets in numerous professions.
While degrees in Engineering, Computer Science, and Economics might be more likely to yield high salaries, don't underestimate the potential of a philosophy or history degree. Success isn't exclusively tied to your field of study.
I hope my perspective as a former History major is helpful!
I hold a degree in History, specifically focused on European History. Although I didn't follow the conventional paths of education or law, my journey has been both challenging and rewarding. My career has spanned various sectors, including non-profit organizations, Operations, HR, Marketing, and even entrepreneurship.
Consider how you can apply the skills and knowledge you gain - such as research, analysis, critical thinking, and contextual understanding. These are valuable assets in numerous professions.
While degrees in Engineering, Computer Science, and Economics might be more likely to yield high salaries, don't underestimate the potential of a philosophy or history degree. Success isn't exclusively tied to your field of study.
I hope my perspective as a former History major is helpful!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 => Optimization Of Human Performance: jim.frangos@gmail
6620
Answers
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Justin,
A Philosophy Degree Can Be Worth It for a Low-Income Student, Depending on Career Goals and Individual Circumstances
Philosophy is a discipline that explores fundamental questions about reality, knowledge, values, and ethics. While it may not directly lead to specific careers like law or engineering, a philosophy degree can provide valuable skills and knowledge that are applicable to various fields and industries. For a low-income student considering the value of pursuing a philosophy degree, it is essential to weigh the potential benefits against the costs.
Firstly, let’s examine the potential benefits of a philosophy degree. Philosophy students develop critical thinking skills, which are highly sought after by employers in various industries (American Philosophical Association, 2021). These skills enable individuals to analyze complex problems, evaluate arguments, and make informed decisions. Moreover, philosophy graduates often demonstrate strong communication abilities due to their extensive writing experience (American Philosophical Association, 2021). This skill set can be advantageous in many careers.
Additionally, some philosophy graduates pursue advanced degrees or careers in related fields such as law, education, or research (American Philosophical Association, 2021). For instance, studying philosophy can provide an excellent foundation for law school as it helps students understand legal concepts and ethical dilemmas (Law School Admission Council, n.d.). Furthermore, philosophy graduates have been successful in various industries such as finance, marketing, and technology (American Philosophical Association, 2021).
However, it is essential to acknowledge that pursuing a philosophy degree may come with significant debt for low-income students. According to CollegeData (n.d.), the average cost of tuition and fees for undergraduate students attending private institutions is $55,890 per year. Public institutions cost an average of $27,060 per year (CollegeData, n.d.). To mitigate this financial burden for low-income students considering a philosophy degree:
Explore financial aid opportunities: Students should apply for federal grants and loans as well as state grants and scholarships based on their financial need (U.S. Department of Education Student Aid). Additionally, they can research external scholarships offered by organizations or foundations that support students pursuing degrees in philosophy or related fields.
Consider community colleges: Community colleges offer more affordable tuition rates than four-year institutions while providing similar foundational coursework (National Center for Education Statistics). Students can complete their general education requirements at community colleges before transferring to four-year universities to save on costs.
Look into part-time work or internships: Students can work part-time jobs during their academic years or participate in internships to gain practical experience while earning income to offset educational expenses (National Center for Education Statistics).
Evaluate career prospects: Before committing to a particular major or career pathway based on passion alone without considering potential earnings or job opportunities post-graduation could lead to financial difficulties down the line (Bureau of Labor Statistics). Students should research career prospects within their desired field and assess whether they align with their long-term goals and financial needs before making a decision about pursuing a philosophy degree or another major that may offer more immediate employment opportunities upon graduation but might not be as personally fulfilling for them.
Consider alternative education paths: If traditional college education is not financially feasible but still desirable due to personal interests or career goals related to philosophy history and law; students could explore alternative education paths such as online courses through reputable educational platforms like Coursera or edX which offer certificates from top universities at significantly lower costs than traditional college degrees while still providing valuable knowledge in these areas of study.**
Authoritative References Used: American Philosophical Association., n.d.-a.What Can You Do With A Philosophy Major? Retrieved March 31st 2023 from https://www../careers/whatcanyoudo> American Philosophical Association., n.d.-b.Why Study Philosophy? Retrieved March 31st 2023 from https://www../careers/why> Law School Admission Council., n.d.Philosophy Majors & Law Schools Retrieved March 31st 2023 from https://www../jd/applying-to-law-school/choosing-a-major/philosophy> U.S Department of Education Student Aid., n.d.Federal Student Aid Retrieved March 31st 2023 from https://studentaid.. National Center for Education Statistics., n .d.Average Annual Costs Retrieved March 31st 2023 from https://nces..
God Bless You,
JC.
A Philosophy Degree Can Be Worth It for a Low-Income Student, Depending on Career Goals and Individual Circumstances
Philosophy is a discipline that explores fundamental questions about reality, knowledge, values, and ethics. While it may not directly lead to specific careers like law or engineering, a philosophy degree can provide valuable skills and knowledge that are applicable to various fields and industries. For a low-income student considering the value of pursuing a philosophy degree, it is essential to weigh the potential benefits against the costs.
Firstly, let’s examine the potential benefits of a philosophy degree. Philosophy students develop critical thinking skills, which are highly sought after by employers in various industries (American Philosophical Association, 2021). These skills enable individuals to analyze complex problems, evaluate arguments, and make informed decisions. Moreover, philosophy graduates often demonstrate strong communication abilities due to their extensive writing experience (American Philosophical Association, 2021). This skill set can be advantageous in many careers.
Additionally, some philosophy graduates pursue advanced degrees or careers in related fields such as law, education, or research (American Philosophical Association, 2021). For instance, studying philosophy can provide an excellent foundation for law school as it helps students understand legal concepts and ethical dilemmas (Law School Admission Council, n.d.). Furthermore, philosophy graduates have been successful in various industries such as finance, marketing, and technology (American Philosophical Association, 2021).
However, it is essential to acknowledge that pursuing a philosophy degree may come with significant debt for low-income students. According to CollegeData (n.d.), the average cost of tuition and fees for undergraduate students attending private institutions is $55,890 per year. Public institutions cost an average of $27,060 per year (CollegeData, n.d.). To mitigate this financial burden for low-income students considering a philosophy degree:
Explore financial aid opportunities: Students should apply for federal grants and loans as well as state grants and scholarships based on their financial need (U.S. Department of Education Student Aid). Additionally, they can research external scholarships offered by organizations or foundations that support students pursuing degrees in philosophy or related fields.
Consider community colleges: Community colleges offer more affordable tuition rates than four-year institutions while providing similar foundational coursework (National Center for Education Statistics). Students can complete their general education requirements at community colleges before transferring to four-year universities to save on costs.
Look into part-time work or internships: Students can work part-time jobs during their academic years or participate in internships to gain practical experience while earning income to offset educational expenses (National Center for Education Statistics).
Evaluate career prospects: Before committing to a particular major or career pathway based on passion alone without considering potential earnings or job opportunities post-graduation could lead to financial difficulties down the line (Bureau of Labor Statistics). Students should research career prospects within their desired field and assess whether they align with their long-term goals and financial needs before making a decision about pursuing a philosophy degree or another major that may offer more immediate employment opportunities upon graduation but might not be as personally fulfilling for them.
Consider alternative education paths: If traditional college education is not financially feasible but still desirable due to personal interests or career goals related to philosophy history and law; students could explore alternative education paths such as online courses through reputable educational platforms like Coursera or edX which offer certificates from top universities at significantly lower costs than traditional college degrees while still providing valuable knowledge in these areas of study.**
Authoritative References Used: American Philosophical Association., n.d.-a.What Can You Do With A Philosophy Major? Retrieved March 31st 2023 from https://www../careers/whatcanyoudo> American Philosophical Association., n.d.-b.Why Study Philosophy? Retrieved March 31st 2023 from https://www../careers/why> Law School Admission Council., n.d.Philosophy Majors & Law Schools Retrieved March 31st 2023 from https://www../jd/applying-to-law-school/choosing-a-major/philosophy> U.S Department of Education Student Aid., n.d.Federal Student Aid Retrieved March 31st 2023 from https://studentaid.. National Center for Education Statistics., n .d.Average Annual Costs Retrieved March 31st 2023 from https://nces..
God Bless You,
JC.
Thanks, can't wait to put this advice into action!
Justin
Updated
Margaret’s Answer
Hi Justin, you've received very solid advice already, so I'll just offer some perspective from my experience as a History major who worked manual labor (house painting and roofing) immediately after college due to a bad job market, went to graduate school for a different subject (MA in communication studies), and is now a consultant.
The difficult part: Getting my first office job was hard. I spent a couple years applying for jobs and not hearing back even when required skillsets were a close match for the skills developed through a history degree (e.g., research, critical thinking, written and spoken communication). Going to graduate school helped me reset my resume because communication studies sounds more relevant to hiring managers than history. Stephanie makes a good point about minoring in a field that is more easily marketable, and I agree with James' advice about researching financial aid and considering state schools or completing your general education requirement classes at a community college to minimize student loan debt.
The great part: I really enjoyed my history coursework - it was interesting, challenging, and allowed me to explore a wide-range of topics within a single major. The thought processes I learned in writing history papers have been very helpful in my career; every time I start a new project I need to gather and organize contextual information about the client, their current challenges, how those challenges developed, how different stakeholders perceive the situation, etc.
Being able to quickly gather, analyze, and apply information is a valuable skillset in almost any profession. Education in history or philosophy can set you up for success in numerous career paths, but it will likely take some time with twists and turns in the road.
The difficult part: Getting my first office job was hard. I spent a couple years applying for jobs and not hearing back even when required skillsets were a close match for the skills developed through a history degree (e.g., research, critical thinking, written and spoken communication). Going to graduate school helped me reset my resume because communication studies sounds more relevant to hiring managers than history. Stephanie makes a good point about minoring in a field that is more easily marketable, and I agree with James' advice about researching financial aid and considering state schools or completing your general education requirement classes at a community college to minimize student loan debt.
The great part: I really enjoyed my history coursework - it was interesting, challenging, and allowed me to explore a wide-range of topics within a single major. The thought processes I learned in writing history papers have been very helpful in my career; every time I start a new project I need to gather and organize contextual information about the client, their current challenges, how those challenges developed, how different stakeholders perceive the situation, etc.
Being able to quickly gather, analyze, and apply information is a valuable skillset in almost any profession. Education in history or philosophy can set you up for success in numerous career paths, but it will likely take some time with twists and turns in the road.
Updated
Stefanie’s Answer
Hi Justin ~ great question! If philosophy and history are something you are really interested in, you should pursue them -- but know that there aren't too many jobs that you would find after graduating college that would be a specific match. You could definitely major in either of those and then move onto law school, though, which you also say you are interested in. Another option would be to major in something else -- like criminal justice or pre-law (if the school you are interested in offers those) and then minor in Philosophy or History. The other thing to keep in mind or look for is that many schools allow you to delay declaring your major for the first or even first 2 years of college -- so you can explore some different classes to see what you decide you are most interested in before you go ahead an settle on a major.
Good luck - and don't feel too pressured to know exactly what you want to do, yet - -most kids don't when they start college!
Good luck - and don't feel too pressured to know exactly what you want to do, yet - -most kids don't when they start college!
Updated
Dino’s Answer
Hello Justin,
Thanks for getting in touch with us! You've asked a great question. Your options fall under the umbrella of the Liberal Arts department, where Philosophy, History, and Law are interconnected. If you're considering a career in law, both Philosophy and History can serve as excellent foundational majors.
Typically, students who pursue these two majors often progress into roles such as Philosophy or History teachers. From my experience, many students who study Philosophy aspire to become priests, lawyers, or educators. What's driving your interest in Philosophy or History?
As for job prospects, graduates with degrees in Philosophy and History often find rewarding opportunities in education. Currently, there's a shortage of individuals majoring in these fields, which makes their skills highly sought after. If your ultimate goal is to become a lawyer, both these majors can serve as a solid stepping stone.
Best of luck with your career exploration, Justin!
Thanks for getting in touch with us! You've asked a great question. Your options fall under the umbrella of the Liberal Arts department, where Philosophy, History, and Law are interconnected. If you're considering a career in law, both Philosophy and History can serve as excellent foundational majors.
Typically, students who pursue these two majors often progress into roles such as Philosophy or History teachers. From my experience, many students who study Philosophy aspire to become priests, lawyers, or educators. What's driving your interest in Philosophy or History?
As for job prospects, graduates with degrees in Philosophy and History often find rewarding opportunities in education. Currently, there's a shortage of individuals majoring in these fields, which makes their skills highly sought after. If your ultimate goal is to become a lawyer, both these majors can serve as a solid stepping stone.
Best of luck with your career exploration, Justin!