Studying A Level Philosophy can open up a range of degree options, as it develops critical thinking, analytical, and argumentative skills that are highly valued in many academic and professional fields. While A Level Philosophy alone may not directly qualify you for specific careers, it can serve as a solid foundation for further study in various disciplines. Here are some degree options you can pursue with A Level Philosophy:
- Philosophy Degrees: A natural progression from A Level Philosophy is to pursue a degree in Philosophy. This could be a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Philosophy, where you can delve deeper into philosophical theories, concepts, and debates. Philosophy degrees cover a wide range of areas, including ethics, metaphysics, epistemology, logic, political philosophy, and the philosophy of mind.
- Joint Honors Degrees: Many universities offer joint honors degrees that allow you to combine Philosophy with another subject of interest. Some common joint honors combinations include:
- Philosophy and Politics
- Philosophy and Psychology
- Philosophy and History
- Philosophy and Literature
- Philosophy and Sociology
- Philosophy and Economics
- Law: A Level Philosophy can be advantageous for studying Law as it fosters critical thinking and analytical skills, which are essential for legal reasoning and argumentation. Many law schools value applicants with a strong background in philosophy due to its emphasis on logic and ethics.
- Politics and International Relations: Philosophy provides a solid foundation for understanding political theory, ethics, and the principles underlying governance and international relations. A degree in Politics or International Relations, with a focus on political philosophy, can be an excellent fit for A Level Philosophy graduates.
- Ethics and Applied Ethics: If you’re particularly interested in ethical theory and its practical applications, you may consider pursuing a degree in Ethics or Applied Ethics. These programs explore ethical issues in various contexts, such as healthcare, business, environmental policy, and social justice.
- Cognitive Science: Cognitive Science combines elements of psychology, philosophy, neuroscience, linguistics, and computer science to study the mind and its processes. A Level Philosophy can be valuable for understanding philosophical questions related to consciousness, perception, and cognition.
- Education: A Level Philosophy can be beneficial for those interested in pursuing a career in education. Studying philosophy of education or educational theory can provide insights into teaching methods, curriculum design, and educational policy.
- Journalism and Media: Philosophy develops strong critical thinking and communication skills, which are valuable in journalism and media-related fields. A degree in Journalism, Media Studies, or Communication with a focus on ethics and critical analysis can be a suitable option.
Ultimately, the degree you choose should align with your interests, career goals, and academic strengths. A Level Philosophy can provide a solid foundation for pursuing various academic and professional pathways, offering flexibility and opportunities for interdisciplinary study and personal growth.