Many English or philosophy majors become teachers. Some return to school to become professors, while others find jobs in middle or high schools. The level of education required to teach depends on the state, but in many states those with only a bachelor's degree can teach high school.
Many professional writers majored in English or philosophy in college. Both require a good deal of writing and critical thought. English and philosophy majors may become newspaper reporters or magazine journalists, or may take jobs as advertising copywriters.
Civil service jobs, or jobs working for the government, are available to those with a bachelor's degree in English or philosophy. The social and communication skills learned while completing those majors are valuable in government jobs, whether at the local, state or federal level.
Due to their finely honed communication skills, English and philosophy majors often make excellent managers. The constant interaction with people of all types may keep a liberal arts graduate happy in her job. Some managers do not have formal instruction in management, but have formal training in the humanities and learn management skills on the job.