UCLA Philosophy Major - Worth it?

I'm thinking about majoring in philosophy at UCLA, but I'm not sure if it's a good idea. What are your thoughts on their philosophy program? Are the faculty and resources good? How are job prospects after graduation for philosophy majors?

UCLA has a strong philosophy program with renowned faculty members and an abundance of resources to support your studies. The department is ranked among the top philosophy programs in the United States and is known for its diverse course offerings, covering various philosophical traditions and contemporary issues. The faculty comprises experts in many areas of philosophy, such as ethics, metaphysics, epistemology, and more. Additionally, there are numerous opportunities for undergraduate research, giving students a chance to delve deeper into the subject matter and gain valuable academic experience.

As for job prospects, it's essential to consider that philosophy is generally not a direct-entry career field like engineering or business, where there is a specific job waiting once you graduate. Instead, philosophy majors have transferable skills that they can apply to various roles across multiple industries. Examples of such skills include critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and analytical abilities.

While some philosophy graduates opt for academic careers, pursuing advanced degrees (such.as a master's or doctorate) and entering academia or research, others leverage their skills in fields like law, business, journalism, public policy, or nonprofit work. To help with your job prospects after graduation, I'd recommend gaining relevant experience during your time at UCLA, such as internships, part-time jobs, or extracurricular involvement related to your desired career path. Building a solid professional network and developing practical skills could increase your employability upon graduation.

In conclusion, majoring in philosophy at UCLA is worth considering if you're passionate about the subject and you're willing to actively work on making the connections between your philosophical studies and potential future career paths. Remember, your major is simply one piece of the puzzle when it comes to building a successful career, so take advantage of UCLA's resources and opportunities to explore different fields and gain hands-on experience.