History, Philosophy and Religion
History, Philosophy and Religion
Mission
ÄÛ²ÝӰԺ’s History, Philosophy and Religion Department provides a rich curriculum in the Humanities that shapes students into strong critical thinkers, creative problem-solvers, clear communicators, and informed citizens. We offer programs in History, Philosophy, Religion, and approved co-majors with select Education degrees. We also provide a wide variety of General Education offerings.
Career
Our graduates go on to develop careers in teaching, journalism, law, public relations, advertising, business, international relations, politics, library science, criminal justice, public history, consulting and more—just a sampling of what is possible.
Historians study past societies for change and continuity over time. Every generation of historians has a duty to reexamine the major questions of the past. Historians glean their lessons to prepare us all for a better present and a brighter future. ÄÛ²ÝӰԺ’s History Programs are committed to promoting equity and social justice and offer a well rounded curriculum in U.S. and world history as well as contemporary issues. Students may take either in-person or online courses depending on their needs.
History graduates do extremely well in today’s job market. The ÄÛ²ÝÓ°Ôº History Programs train students with useful skills from day one. At different course levels, students learn how to develop questions and plan investigations, apply disciplinary concepts and tools, gather, evaluate, and use evidence, and work collaboratively to communicate conclusions (C3 Framework, 2013). A degree in history can be a great foundation for many lucrative careers. Employers value the knowledge and skills of history majors and utilize them to perform a wide array of professions (see Figure 1). Thus, a bachelor's degree in history is a general admission ticket to career success. According to ZipRecruiter, the median salary of a history major in 2023 was $62,115 or about $30 an hour. Top earners within the 90th percentile earned an average of $105,500 annually. With additional professional study, many history majors enter the specialized fields of education, law, journalism, library science, museum curation, and archival work. In business and government, history majors are valued as public relations specialists, advertising executives, business analysts, and researchers.
![Diagram showing the Careers of History Majors](/sites/default/files/styles/ifde_wysiwyg__natural/public/images/2023-12/CareersOfHistoryMajors.jpg?itok=u1OvGP9k)
Philosophy challenges students to think deeply, question established norms, and develop a unique perspective on life, ethics, and society. As well as preparing you for a wide number of jobs, it is a pathway to a successful, thoughtful, and fulfilling life. The skills and insights gained are invaluable, enriching both personal development and professional success. To learn about all the reasons you might study philosophy, explore the resources collected by the American Philosophical Association in their ‘’ page. Here are just a few.
Philosophers get jobs
Philosophy majors are employable across various sectors. Their training in critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication equips them for diverse roles in law, business, education, and public service. And contrary to common stereotypes, they earn healthy salaries, with a median mid-career salary of approximately $81,000. See the . For more insights into the employability of philosophy majors, you can explore articles from and .
Philosophers excel at postgraduate exams
Philosophy students consistently outperform their peers in standardized tests like the GMAT, LSAT, and GRE used in the admission processes for Law Schools, Graduate Management Program, and other Postgraduate Degree Programs. The analytical and critical thinking skills honed through their studies give them a distinct edge. For more information on how philosophy majors perform on standardized tests, visit and .
Philosophers are leaders
Philosophy students have gone on to become leaders in the arts, politics, businesses and more. Here are a few examples:
- Reid Hoffman: As the co-founder of LinkedIn, Reid Hoffman's background in philosophy has been instrumental in shaping his approach to business and networking. Hoffman's philosophy-influenced business strategies are detailed in profiles like this one from .
- Angela Davis: A prominent political activist and scholar, Angela Davis's study of philosophy has deeply influenced her work in social justice and civil rights. Davis's life and philosophical influence are explored in various biographies and articles, such as this profile by .
- Martin Luther King Jr.: The civil rights leader's philosophical studies, particularly in ethics and theology, profoundly shaped his approach to nonviolent resistance and social activism. His philosophical influences are detailed in resources like this article from .
To learn more about the many philosophy students who have become leaders in their fields, see
Culture
Our faculty is student-centered and passionate about bringing the humanities to life. We endeavor to create a welcoming environment conducive to deep reflection and vibrant discussion. Our specialties are as diverse as our student body, and we are engaged experts in our disciplines. We are dedicated to helping students learn, grow and succeed.
Contact Us
Dr. Jacob A. Zumoff, Chair
Kartnoutsos Arts & Sciences Hall, Room 505
Email: jzumoff@njcu.edu
Tel: 201-200-3256
Dr. John K. Bragg, Interim Philosophy Coordinator
Karnoutsos Arts & Sciences Hall, Room 505
jbragg@njcu.edu
201-200-2431
Ms. Jessica N. McKenzie
Administrative Assistant
Karnoutsos Arts & Sciences Hall, Room 505
jmckenzie@njcu.edu
201-200-3251