Philosophy Major — Salary & ROI 2026
Study of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, and ethics.
Starting Salary
$42K
median
Mid-Career
$70K
salary
ROI Payback
6.5 yrs
avg payback
Unemployment
4.5%
rate
Philosophy Overview
Study of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, and ethics.
Category
Humanities
Degree Level
Bachelor's
Graduation Rate
60%
Enrollment Trend
declining
Online Available
Yes
Underemployment
38%
Lifetime Premium
$300K
Female Graduates
38%
Philosophy Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your actual return on investment based on school type and scholarships.
0 to $40K/year in aid
Est. Total Cost
$17,100
4-year tuition
Net Cost (w/ aid)
$17,100
after scholarships
ROI Payback
2 years
to break even
Lifetime Return
$282,900
Lifetime earnings premium ($300,000) minus net degree cost ($17,100)
Philosophy Salary Progression
Common Philosophy Careers
Attorney
Ethics Consultant
Policy Analyst
Professor
Top Employers
Skills You'll Learn
Top Schools for Philosophy
#1
NYU
#2
Rutgers
#3
Princeton
#4
MIT
#5
University of Pittsburgh
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Philosophy Degree FAQ
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