A professor speaks to a group of students sitting in the film viewing room with black and white film on the screen over his shoulder.

Philosophy

Anyone can ask “Why?” But philosophy majors can respond with clear viewpoints, sound arguments, plus the ability to handle complex decision-making. It’s no wonder employers seek out philosophy graduates.

Philosophy is the kind of major anyone can benefit from, because everyone needs to be able to express their thoughts, understand the viewpoints of others, and critically evaluate intellectual problems. As a philosophy major, you’ll study the abiding questions facing humankind: What is the nature of God? Why be moral? Is there an afterlife? What is truth and justice? But you’ll also have extensive instruction in building practical skills that mold you into an ideal candidate for post-graduate studies in law, medicine, business, and more.

Philosophy has its roots in Ancient Greece and translates to love of wisdom. Rory Kraft, assistant professor of philosophy, talks about fostering that love in the learning environment. Download a transcript of this video.
Prof. Dennis Weiss delivering the winter 2014 Commencement address
Philosophy professor Dennis Weiss, Ph.D., delivering a commencement address.

PhilosophyYour future in

The best use of a philosophy degree may be to think outside the box — LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman and Flickr founder Stewart Butterfield are just some of the success stories of people who took a background in philosophy and applied it to a career elsewhere. This major is also excellent preparation for graduate school. Our graduates work for Catholic Charities, Early Intervention and United Way of the Capital Region. You'll find philosophers in careers such as:
  • Professor, teacher, writer
  • Religious or civil rights leader
  • TV personality, comedian, actor
  • Public service employee, politician
  • Public relations, and more

Program Requirements

Required Courses and Degree Requirements for Graduation
catalog icon

2023-2024 Undergraduate Catalog

Related Programs

Contact Us
History and Political Science Department
Corey Brooks, Ph.D., Chair
Humanities Center, 101
Phone: 717.600.3869
cbrooks4@ycp.edu

Deb Staley, Administrative Assistant
Humanities Center, Room 100
Phone: 717.815.1349
dstaley@ycp.edu