Philosophy

Close-up of two hands cradling a small glass globe, representing how philosophy majors examine the world.

As a philosophy major, you will critically examine the most fundamental beliefs about the world and the place of people in it. Philosophy dives into big questions like: Can we be certain of our beliefs? What makes scientific claims scientific? How do we distinguish between right and wrong? What does it mean to be a good person and live a good life? Are our decisions and actions truly free? Is there a God? What does it mean to be conscious, and will AI ever be capable of consciousness?  

You will build critical reasoning, decision-making and problem-solving skills through rigorous training in this philosophy major. Also, you will learn to spot the difference between a truly strong argument and something that is just phrased well. These important human skills cannot be automated. Whether you are building a successful career or navigating daily life, clear thinking and strong communication are more valuable than they have ever been.

ALUMNI PURSUITS

Graduates with a philosophy major pursue careers in a range of industries, excelling in jobs that demand deep critical thinking, problem-solving and communication skills.

Alumni work at: 

  • U.S. congressional offices
  • American English Center
  • prAna Living
  • Sierra Club
  • Henry Ford Health System
  • Educational Testing Service
  • State of Michigan

Alumni work as: 

  • Ethics officers and advisors
  • Entrepreneurs
  • Legislative aides and directors
  • Professors and teachers
  • Advertising account managers
  • Writers and journalists
  • Museum curators

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