Philosophy
Philosophical reflection encourages you to seek the truth, no matter what your investments in a situation. As a philosophy major at Duquesne University, you will ask big questions about yourself, your surroundings and the larger world—questions like “What is thinking, and what are its limits?” “Is language a social intervention, an innate ability or an imitation of nature?” “Is there a God, and what is God like?” “How should we organize our society?” “Why are there inequalities, and is justice only the law of the stronger?” “Are mind and body one thing, two things or many?” “Are standards of beauty objective, or do they depend on the observer?”
As a student in our philosophy program, you will cultivate the art of thinking and engage deeply in the history of philosophy so as to develop a competency powerfully to engage diverse intellectual positions on all issues pertaining to human existence. The philosophy faculty walk alongside you as you develop a broad understanding of diverse philosophical positions to aid in your future success, regardless of path or industry.
What can you do with a philosophy degree?
Philosophy majors distinguish themselves as leaders in academia, medicine, politics, journalism, public relations, finance, public interest research, ministry, law, business and education. Paired with Duquesne’s broad liberal arts approach, a philosophy degree provides you with a valuable skillset of problem-solving, careful thinking, analytical clarity, critical precision, clear presentation of complex ideas and innovative thinking that can be applied to any career path.
Duquesne’s philosophy department is unique in that they have one of the largest phenomenology centers in the US. The faculty nurture individual thought through primary literature and recommend that students publish and their papers at academic conferences. The level of individual mentorship is nearly impossible to find elsewhere and has added immense value to my academic career.
Program Information
Our Philosophy program helps you to develop logical analysis, conceptual interpretation, and critical argumentation skills. Dive deep into the history of philosophy to engage diverse intellectual positions on human existence.
Program Type
Major, Minor
Degree
Bachelor's
Academic Department
Philosophy
Duration
4-year
Required Credit Hours
30
The philosophy major and minor are structured to maximize your freedom to choose your
own path through our curriculum. Philosophy minors must complete 15 credits in philosophy:
"Philosophy unlocked several previously unknown doors for me. Studying philosophy
offers you a new way of thinking, helps you comprehend the metaphysical world and
its people (including yourself) and perhaps most importantly presents you hope for
any possibilities and outcomes."
Program Requirements
Select 9 philosophy credits at the 300-level. Some course offerings include:
Select 3 credits at the 400-level or above. Some course offerings include:
View Catalog
Please refer to the list of courses in the major requirements section, but know that
those courses are not the full extent! Philosophy courses are constantly being added
to the catalog for maximum student benefit.
Where Our Students Have Held Internships
Learning Outcomes of a Philosophy Degree
Contact
Dr. James Swindal