Our philosophy program critically engages the ideas that create the foundation for how we think about ourselves, others, and the world. A diverse range of courses offers students the opportunity to study classical philosophical texts, global philosophical traditions, and ongoing research in contemporary problems.
What is Philosophy?
A major in philosophy is excellent intellectual training for practically anything! Many of our students are drawn to philosophy out of intellectual curiosity, an appreciation for the depth of understanding that philosophy cultivates, and the satisfaction of learning how to carefully articulate, analyze, and defend various viewpoints. Philosophical study trains students in rigorous critical and analytical skills, creative thinking, and clear communication, some of the so-called “soft skills” which employers highly value.
There is no single career path for philosophy majors: graduates from our program now work in a variety of careers, including non-profits, businesses, higher-education, law, and film. Philosophy is highly recommended for students who plan a career in law, as philosophy majors do better than any other liberal arts major on the LSAT. Philosophy is also excellent preparation for the GRE, as philosophy majors score higher than any other major on the verbal reasoning and analytical writing sections. Our graduates have been accepted to graduate programs throughout the US and Canada.
Whatever your path, philosophy can help you understand and interact with the world in more meaningful ways!
Program Information:
We offer a B.A. degree in philosophy. Philosophy is a flexible degree that easily pairs with other programs (double majors, interdisciplinary minors, honors program, etc.).
The philosophy major requires 33 degree hours in philosophy, in addition to standard lower division and upper division UCA Core requirements. The philosophy minor requires 18 hours. The structure of the program includes many electives, which allows students to tailor their education to their own interests and career goals.
Philosophy Majors Checksheet (NEW, for students entering the program after Fall 2022)
Philosophy Majors Checksheet, Pre-Fall 2022 (For students who entered the program prior to Fall 2022)
Course Schedule
An official list of all courses offered can be found in the Undergraduate Bulletin, Philosophy Courses and in the Undergraduate Bulletin, Religious Studies Courses. In addition to these courses, and in response to faculty and student requests, we offer various special “Topics” and “Readings” courses, Honors Tutorials, and Internships.
The schedule of classes is available from the Registrar under “Schedule of Classes.” If you have questions about a class or would like to talk to a faculty member about your schedule, please contact us!
