Philosophy
Academic Department
We explore life’s biggest questions and help students develop the skills to think deeply, write clearly, and reason effectively. At UNC Philosophy, we’re passionate about making philosophical education accessible to all students—fostering critical thinking, logic, and meaningful dialogue about what it means to live a good and just life. Our graduates leave prepared for a wide range of careers and a comprehensive understanding of our world.
Philosophy in the Real World
From Classroom to Career
Have you ever considered the advantage of majoring in Philosophy? Curious about the career opportunities a philosophy degree can offer? Or interested in learning about some of the most influential individuals who have studied philosophy?
Philosophy - words from wooden blocks with letters, love of wisdom philosophy concept, white background
Think Big. Do More.
A philosophy degree can help you with more than just thinking clearly and being creative. This guide explains the benefits of studying philosophy and how you can use it in jobs like law, business, medicine, starting your own company, and more!
Alumni Highlight
Class of 2021
"My time as a UNC philosophy major taught me more than just different philosophical theories. I learned how to think clearly, speak confidently, and defend my ideas. The faculty fostered an environment of respectful engagement and provided the support I needed to grow both academically and personally."
Vanessa Salazar
Pilgram's Production Planning Manager
Class of TBD
"The Philosophy Department at UNC helped not only in gaining knowledge within my interests but also allowed me to experience wonderful opportunities. Through the department's hard work, I was able to complete an honors thesis, an internship, and participate in the Ethics bowl!"
Daniel Mangandi-Escobar
Graduate Student, California State University Long Beach, Master's in Philosophy (Expected Spring 2026 Graduation)
Class of TBD
"My time as a student in UNC's Philosophy department helped me build the skills in writing, critical thinking, and analysis necessary for my career. I received so much dedicated and individualized support from the faculty in the department."
Rachel Lesser
Pursuing a Master's degree in clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Colorado Denver
Fundamental Skills for Philosophy
Critical Thinking
Identify and respond to needs based upon an understanding of situational context and logical analysis of relevant information.
Equity and Inclusion
Show that you understand and respect people from different cultures and backgrounds. Be fair to everyone and speak up against unfair rules or systems that cause racism and inequality.
Leadership
Identify your own strengths and the strengths of your team and use them to help reach the goals of the group or organization.
Teamwork
Get along with others by building good relationships, working as a team to reach the same goals, and respecting different ideas and shared duties.
Communication
Share information, ideas, facts, and opinions clearly and in a way that others can understand, both with people in your group and outside of it.
Professionalism
Understand that every workplace is different, show good work habits, and make choices that help your team and the community.
Technology
Learn how to use technology in a fair and responsible way to work better, finish tasks, and reach your goals.
Graduate Career Ready with Philosophy
Studying philosophy helps you learn how to think about big questions, like what is right or wrong, how rules work. and what life means. It can help you understand the world better and be more active in your community. These same skills can help you take control of your own life and find a career that’s right for you.
Many Career Paths
Another myth about philosophy is that it can only really prepare you to be a philosopher! In reality, philosophy majors end up in careers all across the career spectrum. Our alumni work in education, animal care, nursing, psychology, library science, law, politics, and business. There are also many important (and famous) people who have started their career after studying philosophy.
Student Voices in Philosophy
Philosophy student reps help build community by planning fun events and sharing student perspectives in department meetings. They’re here to listen—so if you have ideas for improving the program or want to get more involved, they’re a great place to start.
Whether you’re a philosophy major or just love deep conversations, everyone is welcome. Come see what we’re all about!
Philosophy Resources
Philpapers is a one-stop shop for research in philosophy. It hosts the largest open access archive in philosophy, and if you lof in through the Michener Library website using your UNC credentials you will be able to download most articles with just one click.
- The American Philosophical Association
- The American Philosophical Association’s lift of Resources for Undergraduates
- The Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy
- Philosophy Bites
- The Philosopher’s Magazine
- Philosophy Pages
- Philosophy Talk
- Project Vox
- Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy
- The Society for Women in Philosophy
- The Voice of the Shuttle: Philosophy
- A Guide to Writing Philosophy Essays by Colin Allen
- Guidelines on Writing a Philosophy Paper by James Pryor
- Guidelines on Reading Philosophy Paper – by James Pryor
- Paper Writing Strategies for Introduction Philosophy Courses – by Joe Cruz
- Philosophical Writing Manual – Long Version – by Martin Young
- The Pink Guide to Philosophy – by Helena de Bres
- Guide to Writing in Philosophy by Dr. Omar Rivera