Learn to think clearly, question assumptions, and view problems from multiple perspectives at once. Philosophy majors walk away with universally applicable and highly valued cognitive skills.
The primary task of the philosophy major is to become adept in the arts of careful reasoning. Our students achieve this through the rigorous investigations of some of the most challenging, interesting, and important puzzles that we face as curious human beings.
Why is there something rather than nothing? What are space and time? Is there more to the human being than material atoms? What is the relation between the mind and the brain? Do we have free will? Is there such a thing as "human nature"? Is there a morally correct way to act? What justifies political authority? Is there an ideal form of human society?
By carefully studying and evaluating historical and contemporary attempts at these problems, students hone cognitive skills that are applicable far beyond the purely philosophical: sound judgment, flexible and creative problem-solving, ethical sensitivity, just to name a few.
For the curious mind, majoring in philosophy is a win/win: While a student, one gets to emerse oneself in a profoundly interesting array of interconnected puzzles about humanity and the universe. After graduation, one walks away with cognitive skills that set them apart in the workplace, the critical mindset necessary for being a good citizen, and a deeper appreciation of what it means to live well.
Contrary to many assumptions, philosophy majors tend to do very well in the job market. See here for more information about the practical and economic benefits of majoring in philosophy.
The standard Philosophy major gives students a comprehensive picture of the breadth of the discipline, with required coursework in logic, value theory, the history of philosophy, and non-western philosophy, and with various elective options in metaphysics, the philosophy of mind, aesthetics, epistemology, bioethics, social theory, and other areas. At only 33 credit hours, Philosophy can be an excellent choice for students who want to double major.
Students may pursue a course of study that emphasizes social justice. This optional track retains requirements in logic, history, and non-western philosophy, expands requirements in ethics and social/political philosophy, and includes an interdisciplinary component.
Our most advanced and ambitious philosophy majors may opt to conduct a research project in addition to the standard requirements for the major. Honors thesis students work closely with a faculty mentor to articulate a philosophical problem, conduct a literature review and then craft an original argument about this topic. The project culminates in a lengthy essay and a public presentation and defense of the thesis. Successful students receive a "with departmental honors" designation on their transcript. Abstracts for recent Honors Thesis projects can be found here.
View degree requirements and course descriptions in the Undergraduate Catalog. Information about the standard Philosophy major, the Social Justice track, and the Honors Thesis option can be found here.
One of the benefits of a joining a small major is that our students don't get lost in the crowd. We are proud of the strong community that our students and faculty build and maintain throughout each academic year.
The "Philosophy Party" is a student-run organization that meets weekly to discuss philosophical topics of their choosing.
There are four essay competitions every year, each awarding scholarship money to the winners. The Ian Moore and the Walter Fuchs Memorial Prizes are administered each fall, and the Wing-Chun Wong and Paul Pojman Memorial Prizes are administered each spring. See the Student Resources page for more details.
The Wing-Chun Wong Memorial Lecture is typically held during the fall, and the Ian Moore Memorial Lecture is typically held during the spring. These events are opportunities for students to hear from both established figures and new voices in the field. Both lectures include lengthy Q&A sessions followed by catered dinners, so that students have the chance to engage directly with visiting scholars.
Small classes taught by experienced faculty give you a real opportunity to interact with your instructors and fellow classmates.
The beautiful 322-acre campus is in close proximity to a number of places of worship and museums that provide a historical perspective on philosophy and religion.
The department’s faculty award three essay prizes each year, and a scholarship for an undergraduate philosophy major. Learn more about all of the department’s scholarship opportunities.
