120
Credit-Hour Major
18
Credit-Hour Minor

Degree

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  • Minor https://www.stmarytx.edu/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/male-student-reading-2018.jpg
  • Bachelor of Arts https://www.stmarytx.edu/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/male-student-reading-2018.jpg

School

Department

Department Chair

Philosophy at St. Mary’s

Students in the Department of Philosophy at St. Mary’s University combine the study of philosophy as an academic discipline with the practice of philosophy as a way of life.

Guided by logic, epistemology, metaphysics, ethics and aesthetics from philosophical traditions around the world, from antiquity to the present, philosophy students ask “the big questions” about what’s true, real, good and beautiful. Through personal reflection and critical thinking, they apply the lessons of their coursework and the results of their research to the world and their own lives.

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Program of Study

The Philosophy major program introduces students to the systematic study of Philosophy across a broad range of topics. Students often pursue a double major in a field of study that complements their interests, such as Business, Mathematics, Political Science or Theology.

The Philosophy minor supports students majoring in related subjects where knowledge of philosophy is beneficial. It introduces students to critical reflections in the history of philosophy, logic and other philosophical topics.

Philosophy students listening to professor.

  • Degree Plan

    Students can pursue a 120-credit-hour bachelor’s degree in Philosophy:

    Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy

    St. Mary’s also offers an 18-credit-hour Philosophy minor. Courses include:

    • Symbolic Logic
    • History of Philosophy and Philosophical Traditions
    • Parts of Philosophy and Philosophical Topics

    Minor in Philosophy

  • Courses

    Courses include but are not limited to:

    • Ancient Greek and Roman Philosophy
    • Asian Philosophy
    • Environmental Philosophy
    • Existentialism
    • Foundations of Ethics
    • Introduction to Philosophy
    • Medieval Philosophy
    • Modern European Philosophy
    • Philosophy in Latin America
    • Philosophy in the Catholic Intellectual Tradition
    • Philosophy of Language
    • Philosophy of Religion
    • Philosophy of Science
    • Political Philosophy
    • Symbolic Logic
    course catalog
$94,300
Median mid-career salary for a person with a bachelor’s degree in Philosophy
$52,600
Starting salary of Philosophy majors — the highest of any humanities majors
13-to-1
Student-to-faculty ratio

What can I do with a degree in Philosophy?

Payscale Inc.’s College Salary Report (2021) shows that people with a bachelor’s degree in Philosophy have the highest starting salary of any humanities major ($52,600) and the highest percent increase between starting and mid-career salary ($94,300).

  • Job Fields

    Philosophy majors are well prepared for graduate study as well as various career paths. Potential job fields include:

    • Business
    • Education
    • Entertainment
    • Law
    • Politics
    • Science
    • Technology
    • Other Academic Disciplines

Law School Options

St. Mary’s University offers a Pre-Law Program for undergraduate students interested in pursuing law school and law-related careers. Students in the Philosophy major may qualify for the Nelson Wolff Law Early Admission Program, which offers motivated, talented undergraduate students who plan to attend law school the opportunity to complete a bachelor’s degree and a law degree from the St. Mary’s University School of Law in less time. 

The Guaranteed Law School Admission Program guarantees St. Mary’s graduates admission to the School of Law, if they meet certain criteria.

Outside the Classroom

Student Activities and Programs

St. Mary’s students enjoy a wide variety of events, activities and special programs. Philosophy students may be especially interested in: 

Philosophy students receive an award at the Regional Ethics Bowl.

Phi Sigma Tau

Phi Sigma Tau is the international honor society in Philosophy. The Texas Lambda chapter provides outlets and support for both student and faculty scholarship in philosophical issues through essay workshops, lectures and paper presentations. 

The organization promotes student interest in research and advanced study, providing opportunities for the publication of student research and encouraging a professional spirit and friendship among those who have displayed marked ability in the field. 

arts, humanities and social sciences clubs
Photo of philosophy professor and student sitting outside library talking about philosophy course.

Faculty

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We’re eager to hear from you and answer any questions you have! Feel free to reach out to learn more about St. Mary’s University.

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