Pursue Numerous Career Paths with an Associate Degree in Philosophy from NECC
Why pursue a degree in Philosophy?
Are you a deep thinker with an inquisitive mind? Would you like to make sense of the world around you by better understanding the human condition? If so, NECC’s associate degree in philosophy program will give you a broad liberal arts education as you explore various career paths, including law, education, public service, religion, business, social work, professional writing, and more.
Affordable General Education Paths for Inquisitive Professionals
At NECC, our associate degree in philosophy combines a mix of general education courses with career workshops, giving you a solid foundation to build on as you further your education in the field of your choosing. Upon program completion, our academic advisers will show you how to transfer credits towards a bachelor’s degree at a four-year school, saving you thousands of dollars on your education!
Ready to explore where your inquisitive mind can take you?
What you’ll get from our Philosophy program
Gain Reasoning and Essential Job Skills
Immerse yourself in the secrets of the universe, as you explore philosophical questions, empowering you to become a master of thought. Study the basic ideas about truth, knowledge, right and wrong, religion, and the nature and meaning of life. Become more proficient in the soft skills employers value most, including critical thinking, logical reasoning, communication, public speaking, purposeful debate, and open-mindedness. Once you’ve completed our program, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to advance your education at a four-year school, proving that following your career dreams can lead to something truly remarkable!
Do Cool Stuff, Not Just Homework
Forget about endless lectures. We’re talking about interactive classes and workshops where you practice what you’ve learned in real-life scenarios, as well as projects that connect you with other deep-thinkers in the community.
Gear Up for a Great Career in the Field of Your Choosing
At NECC, we’re here to help you build a skill set that’s in demand. Whether you see yourself as the next great lawyer, teacher, social worker, researcher, or other professional opportunities,, we’ve got you covered. While guiding you every step of the way, our experienced instructors will show you how to:
Improve your ability to reason and understand complex issues- Learn critical thinking skills to solve challenging problems
- Develop your communication skills
- Utilize NECC resources to help you succeed, including computer labs, tutoring centers, the career and academic advising center, and participation in career workshops
Your Schedule, Your Rules
Juggling life, work, and study? No sweat. With a mix of online and on-campus options, NECC makes it easy for you to fit study into your life, not the other way around. Once you’ve completed our philosophy degree program, you’ll be able to apply those credits towards a bachelor’s degree in your chosen field at a four-year school.
Where this journey can take you
Upon graduation from NECC, you will have completed your general education degree requirements, saving you thousands of dollars on the cost of your bachelor’s degree. Like a blank canvas, you can use your liberal arts foundation to pursue a career in law, education, business, public service, professional writing, religion, and many other fields.
Imagine yourself serving in one of these professional roles:
- Representing clients in legal matters as a Lawyer
- Mentoring children with varying levels of understanding as a Teacher
- Helping college students realize their career dreams as an Associate Professor
- Solving complex problems as a Research Associate
- Providing spiritual guidance as a Clergy Member
- Advocating on behalf of community members as a Social Worker
- Informing and entertaining readers as a Professional Writer
Why choose NECC for your Philosophy degree?
We Get It
At NECC, inspiring our students to succeed is our top priority. Modern, relevant, and engaging, our degree in philosophy courses are designed with you in mind.
NECC’s dedicated faculty and staff help students develop the skills they need to advance in the workforce or transfer to a four-year college or university. Our small class sizes ensure personalized attention and support, empowering students to thrive academically. We also offer a variety of student support services, including tutoring, counseling, and academic advising.
With over 60 credit programs, two convenient campuses, robust student support services, and a vibrant student life, NECC is committed to providing an affordable, accessible, and high-quality education for all.
Learn from the Pros
Our instructors aren’t just teachers. They’re experienced professionals who live and breathe philosophy and the liberal arts.
Experience Beyond the Classroom
At NECC, it’s not just about earning a degree. It’s about building a network, finding your tribe, and acquiring the tools necessary to chase your dreams. Our Haverhill and Lawrence campuses are home to a diverse range of clubs and organizations and activities that help students connect with peers who share similar interests.
Whether you choose to gain leadership experience, stay healthy and fit, join a club, or participate in varsity sports, and student activities, we’ll guarantee you’ll have fond memories of your time at NECC.
We Got Your Back
From the day you start until the day you land your first big gig, our team is here to support, guide, and cheer you on. At NECC, our goal is to empower our students by equipping them with the skills and tools necessary to thrive, wherever they choose to work.
Career Services
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What Can I Do With This Major?
Got Prior Learning or Work Experience?
With NECC’s Credit for Prior Learning, you can move through the program at a faster pace, and graduate sooner! The best part is these credits are covered free-of-charge for eligible Massachusetts learners.
Support for Every Student
NECC offers a variety of student support services, including tutoring, counseling, and academic advising, to help students thrive academically. Want to transfer to NECC? Our advisors are happy to assist you.
Career Outlook for Philosophy Graduates north of Boston
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Liberal Arts graduates with a philosophy emphasis work in various fields, including education, law, business, public service, research, and religion.
For example, job opportunities for lawyers are projected to rise 5% over the next nine years. Furthermore, BLS projects a 7% increase in job openings for social workers during the same period, higher than many other occupations.
At NECC, our Liberal Arts: Philosophy program graduates have an exceptional rate of employment while working in a wide variety of professions and settings. Some have gone on to start their own successful businesses!
How much can I expect to make with an AA Degree in Philosophy?
The earning potential for professionals with a degree in philosophy varies based on several factors, including education, role, certifications, experience, setting, and additional skills. For example, according to Salary.com, the average annual salary for a Social Service Specialist in Massachusetts was $78,158 as of October 2024.
With a degree in Liberal Arts: Philosophy from NECC, you’ll be qualified to advance your education as you prepare for these roles:
Lawyer
Advises and represents clients in criminal or civil proceedings and in other legal matters. The median annual wage in Massachusetts for this role was $148,646 as of October 2024. The wage range typically falls between $125,219 and $171,746.¹
Teacher
While serving as guides, mentors, and facilitators, teachers plan lessons and differentiate instruction for children with varying levels of understanding. The median annual wage in Massachusetts for this role was $64,954 as of October 2024. The wage range typically falls between $54,296 and $79,224.¹
Associate Professor
Organizes and performs the functions of higher education. Professors engage in a variety of activities, from running laboratory experiments and supervising graduate student research to giving undergraduate lectures and writing textbooks. The median annual wage in Massachusetts for this role was $110,811 as of October 2024. The wage range typically falls between $100,247 and $122,803.¹
Research Associate
Uses various research methods to gather, analyze, and present information to solve problems, address issues, and predict trends. The median annual wage in Boston, MA, for this role was $80,212 as of October 2024. The wage range typically falls between $69,111 and $92,690.¹
Clergy Member
Conducts religious worship and performs other spiritual functions associated with beliefs and practices of religious faith or denomination. The median annual wage in Massachusetts for this role was $118,100 as of October 2024. The wage range typically falls between $97,000 and $133,800.¹
Social Worker
Helps individuals and families in their community and beyond improve their quality of lives through counseling, advocacy, and reporting. The median annual wage in Boston, MA, for this role was $74,544 as of October 2024. The wage range typically falls between $66,799 and $83,130.¹
Professional Writer
Creates written works, such as books, short stories, articles, poems, plays, digital content, or screenplays, to inform and entertain readers. The median annual wage in Boston, MA, for this role was $63,690 as of October 2024. The wage range typically falls between $52,627 and $76,719.¹
How to get started as a Philosophy Major near the Merrimack Valley
Feeling pumped? We thought so! Learn more about how to apply for the Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts: Philosophy program. Still unsure that it’s the right fit for you? Contact us to chat more about why this could be the best decision you’ll ever make!
FAQs
Sources and Citations: ¹Salary information provided on this page is sourced from Salary.com. The data reflects estimates based on employer surveys and job listings. Actual salaries may vary based on location, experience, and other factors.