BA in Philosophy

Majoring in philosophy helps students prepare for future careers by teaching them valuable intellectual skills, including how to: Think rigorously Express ideas clearly and logically Understand and evaluate conflicting points of view Reason in a careful way Philosophy raises fundamental questions about ourselves and the world, which result in a sharpened perception of the value of our lives and an increased ability of analysis. Such critical ability enables students to better understand the world around them; to evaluate the values and social forms by which we live; to ask which values should have priority and why; to make judgments about how various social structures realize, or fail to realize, these values. In addition to offering extensive courses on philosophical thought, the Philosophy Department supports the career interests of its students, offering courses in logic, medical ethics, business ethics, philosophy of law, various courses in social philosophy, philosophy of science, and philosophy of religion. Career opportunities for philosophy majors include academics, law, business, public administration, journalism, health care and more. Some students become teachers of philosophy; others recognize it as excellent preparation for law school. Philosophy provides a valuable foundation for careers in communication, public administration and policy making by teaching the student how to identify and examine the underlying questions of values and methodology implied in every practical decision.