Philosophy, B.A.
The philosophy program is designed for students who are interested in examining life's deepest questions and applying this study to the community and world.
Students are admitted directly into this program.Program Overview
Philosophy graduates receive a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree. The curriculum is designed to facilitate interdisciplinary study.
Why Study Philosophy at Grand Valley?
- The program emphasizes learning the history of philosophy as the foundation for further study and application.
- Courses are offered in all major contemporary schools of philosophical thought as well as in non-Western traditions.
- The study of philosophy is an excellent preparation for a wide variety of careers.
- Study abroad programs directed by faculty members are especially beneficial for students. The GVSU Summer School in China represents a rare opportunity to study many aspects of Chinese culture, including Buddhist, Daoist, and Confucian philosophy in China.
- The Undergraduate Teaching Apprentice Program, Philosophy Colloquium/Speakers Series, and the Philosophical Society of GVSU offer out-of-classroom opportunities.
Career Insights
This tool shows an overview of potential career opportunities for this major. Actual salaries, employment opportunities, and job titles may change over time.
Location & Format
Undergraduate students in this major study at Grand Valley's Allendale Campus.
- Face To Face
Coursework
Philosophy students receive a broad education in the subject, covering topics like:
- Aesthetics
- Eastern philosophy
- Ethics
- Great philosophers
- Logic
- Social and political philosophy
Study Abroad: Philosophy students are encouraged to take advantage of the study abroad programs in China.
Minor: Students seeking a minor in philosophy are invited to devise an appropriate program suitable to their interests. It must include a minimum of 18 hours of philosophy, at least 6 hours of which must be upper-division, with 3 of these at the 400 level.
The department also offers interdisciplinary minors in STEM Ethics,
Health Care Ethics, and Ethics, Culture, and Society.
Combined Degree Programs
Many GVSU undergraduate programs can be combined with an existing master’s degree program to save on tuition and get you into the workforce sooner. On average, you can save $8,500 by pursuing a combined degree and take up to four fewer courses than if earning the degrees separately.
Talk with an advisor about how you can build your combined degree from existing programs to further personalize your education and create your own niche area of expertise.
REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE
Hands-on learning and other fieldwork not only deepen your mastery of your discipline but also give you the edge employers seek. Visit our experience matters page to see the work GVSU students are doing in their co-ops and internships.Admission Requirements
Visit the Admissions website for undergraduate requirements.
Helpful Links
For More Information
Department of Philosophy
gvsu.edu/philosophy
B-3-105
Mackinac Hall
(616) 331-2114
“I found all of my professors to be very interested in my holistic education; not just my education as it pertained to philosophy. The accessibility of the professors directly contributed to the strength of my education.”
PHILOSOPHY ALUMNUS