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The Philosophy Department is located in Beck House.

Why study philosophy?

Philosophy asks the most fundamental questions about existence, the nature of reality, knowledge, and how we ought to live. In addition to general courses on traditional philosophical topics - history of philosophy, metaphysics, ethics and epistemology - students may choose from a variety of courses dedicated to special areas of investigation, including environmental ethics, philosophy of law, origins of analytic philosophy, existentialism, self and nature, and philosophy of psychology.

Philosophy is an ideal liberal arts degree. Studying philosophy helps develop clear focused writing, logical and analytical skills, and effective thinking. Majors perform exceptionally well on pre-professional examinations and the philosophy degree is excellent preparation for advanced study in most fields.

Currently, the department is staffed by seven full-time professors (including two visiting professors) and three part-time lecturers, all of whom are committed to excellence in teaching and working closely with individual students. Learn more about the department faculty and their areas of individual research by clicking the link in the menu above.

What can I do with a philosophy degree?

The philosophy degree is an ideal first step towards any number of professional occupations. We are very proud of our alumni. Recent graduates of the department have gone on to professional studies in law, management, medicine, and public health, as well as to Ph.D. programs in philosophy, environmental science, mathematics, journalism and linguistics.

I like philosophy, but I have a different major in mind.

Don't worry. Not only is philosophy an ideal double-major, the philosophy department also offers two minor tracks and participates in concentrations such as Ethics and Public Policy, Law and Society, and Environment and Society. Philosophy is an excellent complement to all fields of study. You don't have to be a major or a minor to benefit from courses in philosophy.

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Academic Catalog & Requirements

Program & Courses Major Requirements Minor Requirements Honors Program

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Ethics and Public Policy Law and Society

Gwladys Ngo Tedga, double major in philosophy and government, spent the summer of 2005 conducting research at the Ethics Institute of South Africa in Pretoria. Read more.

Professor Gary Overvold is the editor of Idealistic Studies, a professional philosophy journal. Interested students are always welcome to become involved in the management and production of the journal.