Philosophers study everything from the origins of the universe to the latest questions about the ethics of cloning. Their research and thinking affects business transactions, government policy, religious guidelines, and personal courses of action. Philosophy is not abstract. It is relevant every day in every field of endeavor.

Philosophy’s range encompasses ideas and issues in every domain of human experience, and its methods apply to an unlimited variety of problems. Students develop personal sophistication, critical thinking, and writing abilities that apply to other academic and professional pursuits and in everyday social and personal life. The study of philosophy can profoundly affect both the thinking one does and the kind of person one is.

We offer three approaches to the philosophy major. The standard major offers a maximum number of electives so you may choose subjects that match your own backgrounds and interests. The concentration in law and justice focuses elective course work in the areas of law, social and political philosophy, and applied ethics. The concentration in religious studies uses electives to explore a variety of both religious expressions and methods of inquiry. In all of these courses, students study the works of great thinkers, diverse religious traditions, and applications of philosophical reflection to contemporary issues in ethics, politics, and the professions.