Alternatively, a departmental major graduating with a concentration in religion might most readily move into work directly connected with religious service, into the human services fields or into teaching. A concentration in philosophy leads most directly into teaching or law school. Studies have shown that, on the national level, philosophy majors are among the highest scorers on the law board examinations. A student's opportunities are by no means limited to these more obvious options. While there is no direct path from philosophy and religion to many specific jobs, in the long run students who have majored in philosophy and religion can do very well in finding satisfying employment.
Employers seek many of the capacities which the study of philosophy and religion develops.
These capabilities represent transferable skills useful in almost every work environment. Many students of philosophy and religion ultimately find careers in business or industry, in government or public service, in law, human services and communications. Students should work with the Office of Career Services for help in finding suitable employment. The department cosponsors a summer archaeological field program in Israel at Tel Miqne, the ancient Philistine site of Ekron, as an optional part of the sequence in biblical studies. The dig is open to all JMU students, regardless of major.