The University of Manitoba campuses and research spaces are located on original lands of Anishinaabeg, Ininiwak, Anisininewuk, Dakota Oyate, Dene and Inuit, and on the National Homeland of the Red River Métis. More
University of Manitoba
Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada, R3T 2N2
Map out your career pathway from the start of your academic journey!
Get the information you need for academic planning and connect with experiences to develop the knowledge, skills and attributes that employers are seeking.
This resource is meant as a guide to provide suggestions throughout your time at university (refer to the Academic Calendar for a complete list of program requirements). Develop a plan and timeline that suits you best. Make intentional choices for your courses and work experiences.
Student spotlight
“I always had an interest in moral philosophy and ethics but part of why I really love philosophy is the challenge it provides; it’s really fun brain work. Philosophy makes you analyze and problem solve, it is difficult but despite the struggle, it is satisfying.”
Ivy Madden, philosophy student
As a philosophy student in the Faculty of Arts, you will learn how to use logic, language and assessment of evidence to understand the world, our place in the world, and our values. Philosophers use the tools of rigorous logic and clear conceptual analysis. Their goal is to understand things such as nature of reason, the physical universe, right and wrong, the human mind, and sometimes even the meaning of life. The study of philosophy will help you not only consider these important questions, but also improve your clarity of expression and ability to think critically. It will provide you with a general intellectual toolbox to help you understand reality and solve problems in the real world.
Year 1 - 30 credit hours
Course requirements:
Honours and Advanced: 6 credit hours at or above the 1000 level.
(If considering Honours or Advanced, PHIL 1300 is required).
General: 6 credit hours at or above the 1000 level.
To do this year:
Year 2 - 60 credit hours
Course requirements:
Refer to the Academic Calendar for a complete list of program requirements.
To do this year:
Year 3 - 90 credit hours
Course requirements:
Refer to the Academic Calendar for a complete list of program requirements.
To do this year:
Year 4 - 120 credit hours
Course requirements:
Refer to the Academic Calendar for a complete list of program requirements.
To do this year:
Year 1 - 30 credit hours
Start planning your career:
Year 2 - 60 credit hours
Make professional connections:
Market your skills: Develop your resumé and cover letter and refine your interview skills.
Year 3 - 90 credit hours
Investigate your career options:
Consider continuing your studies: Check out the Faculty of Graduate Studies, Extended Education or other academic institutions.
Year 4 - 120 credit hours
Start job search 9 months in advance:
Contact Career Services to refine your job search and self-marketing strategies. You can visit the office up to 6 months after graduation.
If you are continuing on to graduate school:
Finalize your application materials and required tests. Use the awards database to search for funding and awards to help finance your continuing education. Contact your department to find out how their awards deadlines are advertised.
Year 1 - 30 credit hours
Link experiences to your career interests. Options include:
Year 2 - 60 credit hours
Explore student research opportunities: Apply for an Undergraduate Research Award.
Gain practical experience by volunteering: Check out legal and social service organizations such as the John Howard Society of Manitoba and local neighbourhood associations or volunteer opportunities through Volunteer Manitoba.
Find opportunities to market yourself: Become a Faculty of Arts Student Ambassador.
Year 3 - 90 credit hours
Continue or start research: Participate in the Undergraduate Research Poster Competition. Consider submitting a paper to journals such as the UBC Journal of Philosophical Enquiries or presenting at the Annual Congress of The Canadian Philosophical Association.
Check out student job opportunities with: Legal Aid Manitoba, social services agencies and market research firms.
Assess your resumé: Identify any gaps in experience and fill them through volunteering, work placements or internships such as Post-Secondary Recruitment Program.
Year 4 - 120 credit hours
Ensure you have references in place: Ask your professor for a reference or a letter of recommendation if you're applying for graduate school.
Search for job opportunities online: Check out Job Bank, Find My Job, Indeed or other search engines.
Use your networks and connections: Inquire about unadvertised job openings (the "hidden job market").
Year 1 - 30 credit hours
Considering international opportunities? Explore Exchange Programs through the International Centre.
Explore communities and cultures you want to work with: Visit Migizii Agamik, the International Centre or learn about local agencies via 211 Manitoba. Join the Philosophy Student Association Mailing List to learn about upcoming events.
Year 2 - 60 credit hours
Develop global career skills and expand intercultural learning: Consider an international student exchange or Travel Study program, or a service-learning program, My World Abroad or SWAP for a "working holiday".
Staying local? Check out the WUSC Student Refugee Program or Community Engaged Learning programs. Consider learning a new language and culture through the Language Partner Volunteer Program.
Year 3 - 90 credit hours
Did you travel abroad? Become an exchange mentor for the International Student Mentorship Program, join the exchange student community at the University of Manitoba or write an article about your experience.
Participate in the multicultural opportunities on campus: Participate in the Intercultural Development and Leadership Program, volunteer for the Land and Water: Land-based Education or take part in Graduation Pow Wow.
Year 4 - 120 credit hours
Prepare to work in a multicultural environment:
Visit Canada's National Research Centre for Truth and Reconciliation on campus or explore Manitoba Start, which offers events and free workshops for newcomers to assist their job search.
Industries such as business, communications, government, health and law would value a philosophy major in combination with the employability skills that are highly sought after by employers. These include:*
Attain skills through your classroom education by taking advantage of experiential education opportunities.
*Information has been adapted from Employability Skills 2000+ and Workplace Education Manitoba – Essential Skills.
Meet with a career consultant for a confidential discussion about your career goals, job search, resumé/CV and interview preparation.
Contact Career Services at cs.receptionist@umanitoba.ca or call 204-474-9456 to make an appointment.
Talk to an academic advisor who will guide you to resources to help you make important decisions for your future. Advisors are specialized, often by program, faculty/school or unit.
Department of Philosophy, Faculty of Arts
450 University College
220 Dysart Road
University of Manitoba (Fort Garry campus)
Winnipeg, MB R3T 2M8
Career Services
Room 474 UMSU University Centre
65 Chancellor's Circle
University of Manitoba
Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2 Canada
