Philosophy
What We Do:
The study of philosophy develops critical intellectual skills you can use in a wide variety of careers. Philosophy students learn how to think rigorously about fundamental questions and evaluate conflicting points of view. They learn how to express ideas logically and clearly, and to reason in a careful, systematic way.
A philosophy major will prepare you for careers in fields like law, public service, business and journalism. Or, if you are interested in becoming a philosophy professor or researcher, you will be ready to pursue the necessary graduate degrees.
Philosophy is also ideal as a second major. Many students choose this option as a way to broaden their analytical skills and complement their primary area of study.
How We Stand Out:
- Our faculty have been published in top scholarly journals and continually engage in research. Several of our professors have been recognized for excellence in teaching.
- Students have the chance to work with professors on research projects through the Faculty / Student Research Program.
- Our curriculum provides a strong foundation in all periods of the history of philosophy, preparing you well for graduate school.
- Our student club, the Philosophy Society, offers events like philosophical discussions and writing workshops.
Programs:
- - offers foundation courses in topics like ethics and logic, followed by thematic electives like Political Philosophy and Computers and Ethics. Students can also pursue independent study topics.
- - allows students of any major to incorporate philosophy into their studies. There are different areas of study within the minor that can link to a student's other areas of interest, such as pre-law or business.
Inside the Classroom:
Over your four years here, you'll develop an understanding of the major traditions and contemporary ideas within the field of philosophy. You'll learn how to write and speak effectively about philosophy and other subjects. You'll learn how to analyze and respond to material from any other discipline.
Once you complete your introductory courses, you can delve into specialized areas like the history of philosophy, ethics in professional life, and philosophy's relationship to science.
You'll have opportunities to complete independent studies and honors tutorials with your professors, and collaborate with them on research.
Career Outcomes:
Our graduates have gone on to careers in a variety of fields that include:
- Higher education
- Politics
- Medicine
- Journalism
- Psychology
- Religion
Alumnus Joseph Bertino, '12, for instance, is a clinical bioethicist for Wellstar Health Systems.
Graduate school is the other path for philosophy majors. Our alumni have been admitted to master's and doctoral programs at such schools as:
- Fordham University
- Loyola University Chicago
- Yale University
- Boston College
- Villanova University
- Vanderbilt University
