Philosophy represents the broad human desire to question and to know. A major in philosophy offers students the opportunity to explore the history of ideas and the ways in which humans have sought to understand, analyze, and craft better understandings and ethical paths for action. As a major prepares students for a wide range of professional career options. The key focus in a philosophy major is critical reading, thinking, writing-all vital skills in the workplace and in life. For example, philosophy majors often go into fields as diverse as business, technical writing, and information technology. Many graduate professional programs (medicine and law) welcome majors from philosophy.
The program at St. Joseph’s College focuses on a rigorous training in thinking, speaking, and writing and would encourage pairing a philosophy major with another area of study, either as a double major or minor. It will also dovetail with our sponsored minor programs in Women’s Studies and Labor, Class, and Ethics.
Philosophy majors must complete 36 credits from the departmental offerings but six relevant credits from Religious Studies can be substituted if so desired. A thesis is optional but if chosen, students who wish to combine this major with a major in another area can explore the possibility of a cross-disciplinary thesis.