Philosophy or English at uni?

[ImagoLuna]

DD is dithering between studying either Philosophy or English at university. She has no idea yet about a future career and isn't therefore sure which subject to apply for at uni.

Someone told her that Philosophy degrees from top unis are very mathematical and whilst she got A* in maths at GCSE, she's not considered a very good mathematician and isn't doing this at A level. So she's a bit put off that she may need to be very mathematically minded if she does Philosophy at places like Oxbridge or Durham/Warwick etc.

However, she's also been told that it's incredibly difficult to get into a good English degree course at top unis, so she's again not sure about this as a subject either.

She also considered Theology at Oxbridge but when pressed, admitted she 's not interested in the religious aspects, (and Oxbridge seems very religious-based) only the philosophical aspects of Theology. Her A level subjects are English Literature, Religious Studies and Pre-U Philosophy.

Today, she asked me what 'people/employers' think about those various degrees as a starting point of study before applying for jobs. I wondered if the collective wisdom of MN could offer opinions about this? Philosophy versus English?

Also, is it better to get a Theology degree from one of the top unis than a Philosophy or English degree from a lower rung Russell group uni?

[BubblesBuddy]

With regard to employability, apart from possibly university and degree classification, (which could apply to any graduate), I do not think employers are likely to favour one subject over the other. However what will be important is other skills that can be demonstrated to employers. So work experience, volunteering, internships, organising a club at university etc. Plus personality! Being able to solve problems and work in a team are good attributes to demonstrate.

It is unlikely employers will worry about linguistics or what books you have read or whether you can talk for an hour about your favourite philosopher. You have to impress them with skills that are appropriate for the job and make sure you get shortlisted.