The mission of the Manchester University department of Philosophy and Religious Studies is to help students explore the fundamental human questions of finding and making meaning in our lives. By requiring that students think critically and independently and write well, we instill skills that are valued across disciplines and prepare our students for a variety of careers and graduate programs. Our philosophy and religious studies programs are streamlined to allow students to complement their studies with a second major or easily add a graduate-level certificate to their program.
The Manchester University Philosophy program studies questions of being, knowledge, action and the good, and examines conceptual frameworks and practices of other disciplines such as religious studies, art, psychology, and the natural sciences.
The Manchester University Religious Studies program engages in the academic study of religion, which aims to understand religious phenomena – texts, beliefs, doctrines, practices, and worldviews – by way of historical, critical, and constructive methodologies.
The Manchester University Psychology and Religious Culture program nurtures a deep understanding of the intricate interplay between psychology and diverse religious cultures, fostering empathy, critical thinking, and open-mindedness. Through rigorous academic exploration, compassionate mentorship, and experiential learning, we aim to equip our students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the human psyche within the rich tapestry of religious diversity.
Unlike many local peer institutions, Manchester's philosophy and religious studies major combines the insights, intuitions and practices of both disciplines into one integrative major. This combined program can help students who are fascinated by religion and spirituality and want to apply this field to new varieties of ministry or service. Manchester University prepares students to develop innovative forms of ministry that are related to a multitude of careers – not just the preacher's pulpit.
As traditional churches and places of worship continue to change in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the philosophy and religious studies major seeks to equip students with the skills needed to adapt to this new situation and to create new forms of meaningful connections – be it remotely, in a place of worship, or in service to others
While philosophy may not lead to a single, predefined career path, data shows that philosophy majors are highly competitive across a wide range of fields. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and various educational research studies:
Earnings
Philosophy majors consistently rank among the highest-earning humanities graduates. Mid-career salaries often exceed $80,000, and many report significant salary growth over time—more than in many other disciplines.
Employment Flexibility
Philosophy majors find work in law, government, tech, consulting, business, and education. Their skills in analysis, writing, and argumentation are especially valued in fields that require clear reasoning and ethical judgment.
Graduate and Professional School
Philosophy majors have some of the highest average scores on the LSAT, GRE, and MCAT, making them well-prepared for law school, graduate programs, and even medical school. Law is a particularly common path.
Job Growth Areas
Projected growth is strong in fields like tech ethics, public policy, nonprofit leadership, and education. As society grapples with complex moral and philosophical issues—such as artificial intelligence, climate change, and bioethics—the demand for people who can think critically and ethically is on the rise.
Philosophy majors may not have a set roadmap, but they’re well-equipped to shape their own. Their success lies in adaptability, intellectual rigor, and the ability to tackle life's biggest questions—skills that are increasingly valuable in a fast-changing world.
Religious studies majors cultivate skills in critical thinking, cultural literacy, and ethical reasoning, equipping them for diverse career paths across both religious and secular sectors.