Philosophy

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Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science
Major
School of Arts and Sciences
Four-Year Degree

Overview

"Philosophy is a battle against the bewitchment of our intelligence by means of language," said Ludwig Wittgenstein.

We can define philosophy as a long and considered thinking about what matters, and why. It is a quest for a comprehensive understanding of human existence, and a consideration of those principles which underlie our conceptions of ethics, art, knowledge, science and reality. It differs from any other field. It is unique both in its methods and in the nature and breadth of its subject matter. Philosophy pursues questions in every dimension of human life, and its techniques apply to problems in any field of study or endeavor.

Key Benefits

  • Small classes provide the opportunity for serious and in-depth philosophical exchange between students and teachers.
  • Every year Westminster offers the Tanner-McMurrin Lecture on the History and Philosophy of Religion, bringing notable scholars in history and philosophy of religion to the college.
  • Seminars provide opportunities for research and analysis of specific topics in philosophy or religion, leading to the development of a senior thesis.

"Reserve your right to think, for even to think wrongly is better than not to think at all."

Hypatia

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Career Opportunities

Potential Careers

Philosophy is an excellent choice of study for pre-law students, as preparation for graduate school in philosophy, as a minor or second major for liberal arts students preparing for graduate school, and for anyone who would benefit from a discipline of clear thinking, writing, and problem solving in the pursuit of wisdom.

Philosophy majors consistently score higher than most other majors on LSAT, GMAT, and GRE tests. (In fact, twice in the past several years the scores of philosophy majors on these three tests were higher than any other discipline.) In addition, the ability to think critically, argue persuasively, and solve problems (which is the focus of philosophical training) is essential for success in our society's rapidly changing work environment.

Student Success

Our students have continued their studies in many prestigious institutions, such as the London School of Economics, Binghamton, Cornell, University of Arizona, Tufts University.

Other Philosophy Programs

The Philosophy program offers an academic major in philosophy leading to a Bachelor of Arts degree or a Bachelor of Science degree, as well as an academic minor.

Learn More About the Philosophy Program

Check Out the Philosophy Department

Tuition and Aid

There's No Better Investment Than You

We know you want an education where you matter—a place that will serve as a launchpad for a successful career and a meaningful life. We’ll work with you individually through every step of the financial aid process. From scholarships to grants and loans, we help you make it happen.

With the highest percentage of students who complete one or more internships in the state, our students hit the ground running with real-world experience. Plus, 90% of our students were either employed or attending graduate school within 5 months of graduating. With a Westminster degree, you don't have to choose between a successful career and a fulfilling life.

Average Cost After Financial Aid

$14,042 ($7,021 per semester)

Cost Breakdown (2018–2019)

  • Tuition: $34,000
  • Room: $5,526
  • Board: $3,164

Financial Aid

Average Total Financial Aid

$27,834 (merit scholarship, work-study, grants and loan funds)

Scholarships

You’ll be Automatically Considered for Scholarship and Grant Opportunities

In addition to general merit scholarships, we have other scholarship programs to support you throughout your time at Westminster.

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