Philosophy
In philosophy, you’ll explore the most pressing and perennial questions of existence, meaning and value: What can we know? What is real? What is the good life? You’ll address these questions through an expanding set of philosophical texts and discussions with other philosophers, both past and present.
Studying philosophy nurtures a love of wisdom that serves as a solid foundation for further education and various careers. More importantly, it cultivates what Socrates described as "the examined life," which he believed to be the only life worth living. By engaging in philosophy, you will critically evaluate your own fundamental commitments and values. Why study philosophy? Because it deepens and enriches our lives.
Why Philosophy at Stetson University?
In Stetson's Philosophy department, you will deepen and enrich your understanding through mentored research and engaging in one-on-one conversations with faculty members.
The department hosts a seminar where you and your peers can interact thoughtfully with the entire philosophy faculty in an upper-level course. Each year, one faculty member selects a topic and leads the discussion, but all faculty participate, fostering a collaborative environment for philosophical dialogue. Additionally, the Philosophy Club offers a monthly meeting space for you, other philosophy students and faculty to continue these discussions outside of class. A student convener organizes each meeting, setting the agenda and distributing texts, creating a congenial atmosphere for deeper engagement with philosophical topics.
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"I’ve taken away the importance of thinking about thinking. In one way or another, philosophy is about examining how and why we think about our world and the things in it.."
Noah McGahagin '22
"I am a legal assistant for a small law firm in Winter Park and I would say it realized my plans as I knew I wanted to study philosophy to gain reading skills and interpretation skills to enable me to have a successful future in law school."
Miracle Duff ’21
Career Outcomes
Earning a bachelor's degree in Philosophy or Religious Studies from Stetson opens doors to a variety of career paths, such as teaching at the secondary or post-secondary level, law, education administration and software development. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage in these fields is $55,000 but can increase significantly for those who pursue a law degree or doctorate.
A degree in philosophy is particularly advantageous if you're considering graduate school, especially law school, due to its strong emphasis on logic, which is vital for legal careers.
As a Stetson Philosophy major, you will find diverse opportunities in law, education, technology and medicine. Many graduates have advanced to prestigious law and graduate programs at institutions including Oxford University, Cornell Law, London School of Economics, Columbia University, University of Sussex, Georgetown University and Stetson College of Law, among others.
As you begin your journey, you will work with some of our distinguished faculty and dedicated professionals who will provide you with personal attention and expert guidance to help you thrive academically and professionally.
- Melinda Hall, PhD, Vanderbilt University
- Susan Peppers-Bates, PhD, University of Pennsylvania
- Joshua Rust, PhD, University of California at Riverside
In Stetson's Philosophy program, you will explore a wide range of courses including Introduction to Philosophy, Introduction to Logic, History of Ancient Philosophy, History of Modern Philosophy, Philosophy of Law, Philosophy of Mind and Philosophy of Language. The curriculum also emphasizes Stetson's core values through courses in Social and Political Philosophy, Existentialism, Feminist Philosophy, Philosophy of Race and Philosophy of Religion, each focusing on elements of social justice or ethical and spiritual inquiry.
You will engage in a distinctive research track that leads to a senior thesis, the capstone course of the Philosophy program. This project, undertaken in your senior fall, involves intensive planning, research, writing and an oral defense under close faculty supervision, allowing you to integrate and focus your philosophical interests deeply. Preparation begins in your junior spring with the required Research in Philosophy course. Upon completing your thesis, you are encouraged to present your findings at undergraduate conferences, with substantial support and funding from the Philosophy department. This comprehensive approach not only enhances your learning but also prepares you for professional and academic opportunities post-graduation.
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