Philosophy at University of California-Berkeley

Berkeley, CA · Public · Bachelor's Degree
35 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
36
Optimistic
35
Base Case
29
Pessimistic
Earnings $36,355/yr (13% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (64% exposed)
Job Market Medium (15,000 openings/yr)
ROI 9.1x earnings multiple (3.0x out-of-state)
Ranked #24 of 77 Philosophy programs Top 50%

Program Analysis

Your Berkeley Philosophy degree provides a rigorous foundation in critical thinking, logic, and complex problem-solving—skills exceptionally valued by employers, particularly in the Bay Area's dynamic tech and consulting sectors. This rigorous training, combined with the university's elite reputation and robust alumni network, helps graduates secure roles that often outpace national averages for the field. While the direct application of philosophy might seem abstract, these analytical abilities are precisely what companies seek for strategic analysis, product management, and even ethical AI development. To truly leverage this advantage, actively seek internships that blend your philosophical insights with practical business or technical challenges, demonstrating how your unique analytical toolkit translates into tangible value for employers.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Philosophy graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $552K $543K $495K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 9.3x 9.1x 8.3x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 3.0x 3.0x 2.7x
Probability of Field Employment 51% 44% 29%
DegreeOutlook Score 36 35 29

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$59,400
Out-of-state: $182,508 (3.0x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$59,916
-1% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$13,345
4.4 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$55,247
52% growth from Year 1

About University of California-Berkeley

Only 12% of applicants gain admission to University of California-Berkeley, reflecting elite selectivity, one of the larger campuses at 33,073 students in Berkeley, CA.

See all programs and financial aid at University of California-Berkeley →

Top Career Paths

Natural sciences managers $161,180/yr
Mathematicians $121,680/yr
Mathematical science teachers, postsecondary $79,350/yr
View all 4 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Philosophy at Other Schools

Other Majors at University of California-Berkeley

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 35/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Philosophy at University of California-Berkeley?
At 35/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Philosophy programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Philosophy at University of California-Berkeley?
The 64% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →