Philosophy
Philosophy is the oldest of the liberal arts, and is often defined simply as the love of wisdom. Philosophy is at the core of the liberal arts tradition and provided the foundation for the modern university, yet it remains highly relevant to life in technologically complex, diverse, global, information driven societies such as our own. The Philosophy major provides in-depth study of fundamental issues that inescapably confront all persons, such as ethics, social and political philosophy, aesthetics, metaphysics, philosophy of mind, philosophy of religion, epistemology, philosophy of science, and logic. These studies enhance imaginative, interpretive, analytical, critical, and communicative capacities. Majors thus may acquire intellectual abilities crucial for self-fulfillment, responsible participation in public life, and success in a wide range of careers—including law, business, education, journalism, medicine, and public service.
Degree Types: Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Minor
Degree Options
Degree Concentrations
- 6 BA options
General Philosophy - Humanities and Arts
- Science and Mathematics
- Social Sciences
- Professional Studies
- Justice, Law, and Values
Popular Double Majors or Minors
- Political Science
- Bioethics
- Languages
- History
- Classics
About the Program
Why should I pursue this degree?
You might like this program if…
- You want to develop critical thinking skills, including constructing, interpreting, and critically analyzing philosophical arguments.
- You want to learn about major thinkers, schools, and trends of the Western philosophical tradition, and to appreciate the importance and value of other thought.
- You want to compose clear, coherent written expressions of complex philosophical ideas, theories, and arguments.
- You have enthusiasm for inquiry and want engage in philosophical discussions about ethics, social and political philosophy, metaphysics, and aesthetics.
Coursework
Opportunities to explore the following topics:
- Ethics
- Love and Sex
- Social and Political Philosophy
- Bioethics
- Medical and Health Care Ethics
Out-of-Classroom Experiences
Internships
- Foundation for Individual Rights in Education
- WSFS Bank
- The Harwood Institute
- Various law offices
- Altria
- Dispute Resolution Institute, Inc.
- Penn State Office of Government and Community Relations
- Kohl’s
Education Abroad Destinations
Australia
France
Netherlands
Spain
United Kingdom
Post-Graduation Opportunities
Continuing Education
- Law school
- Medical school
- Graduate school to study philosophy, data science, philosophy, communication, history, international affairs, labor and employment relations, public policy, poetry, higher education administration, sociology, and political science
Alumni Industries
Business Analysis, Consulting, Finance, Human Resources, Political/Campaign Organization, Service (Teach for America)
Have questions about this program?
Future students, contact the Liberal Arts Recruitment Team.
Current students, contact your academic adviser.
This program is housed in the Department of Philosophy
at Penn State University Park.