UG
PHIL 1010: Introduction to Philosophy
3 credits
Survey of major philosophers and traditional philosophical problems concerning knowledge, values, and the nature of reality.
Undergraduate
Philosophy, B.A.
Investigate the deep questions that inform decision-making.
“My reasoning abilities and worldview have been dramatically altered in ways that made me a more discerning, inquisitive, and engaged human being. I am better able to question and evaluate the practices and principles I see at play around me, and I feel confident in embarking on a career in law.”
Eleanor Anthony (B.A. Philosophy and Math '16)
JD Law, Stanford Law School
Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy
The Department of Philosophy and Religion in the College of Liberal Arts offers the B.A. in Philosophy. Philosophy is the study of the fundamental ideas underlying every dimension of human life. Using logic and reasoned argument, philosophy majors investigate core principles of ethics, ask questions about how knowledge is attained, and explore the nature of ultimate reality.
Emphasis in Religious Studies. Philosophy majors can choose the optional emphasis in religious studies. They aim to understand sympathetically, yet critically, the world’s religions, and to explore the phenomenon of religion itself as a prominent component of human life and culture.
Accelerated Master's Degree. Earn the B.A. and M.A. degrees in 5 years. Our accelerated master's program offers undergraduates the opportunity to begin earning credit towards a graduate degree while they complete the final requirements for their undergraduate degree. This saves students time and money as they complete their advanced degrees. Undergraduate philosophy students can apply to the Program for an Accelerated Advanced Degree after completing 90 credit hours with a GPA of 3.0.
The Value of a Philosophy Degree
A liberal arts education empowers and prepares students to deal with complexity and change through a broad knowledge of the world. Students gain key skills in communication, problem-solving, and working with a diverse group of people. They learn to clarify their own beliefs about the world, formulate a coherent approach to life, and they constantly practice critical thinking. Because conversation is crucial to philosophical inquiry, philosophy majors are trained to be open-minded, civil, and clear-headed even in the midst of passionate debate. Philosophy exposes students to the core arguments and principles that ground decision-making in nearly every professional venue.
Related careers in philosophy include law, medicine, non-profit work, education, business, corporate training, public relations, journalism, counseling, religion, social services, and more!
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Program Information
Degree
B.A. in Philosophy
Emphases
Religious Studies
Required Credit Hours
120
Program Type
Major
Minor
Program Location
School
Duration
4 years
What are some courses you will take to earn a Philosophy Bachelor's Degree?
Here are some of the classes you may take while earning your Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy. See all Philosophy courses.
UG
PHIL 1020: Introduction to Professional Ethics
3 credits
Students will examine the moral dilemmas professionals face as a consequence of their special training, skills, and work-related duties.
UG
PHIL 1030: Logic: Critical Thinking
3 credits
Principles and methods of sound reasoning, emphasizing analysis of everyday arguments.
UG
PHIL 3330: Ethical Theory
3 credits
This course is an introduction to ethical theory, from the classical period to the present.
UG
PHIL 3090: Philosophy of Mind
3 credits
An introduction to philosophical psychology, e.g., the body/mind problem, the nature of consciousness, and personal identity.
UG
PHIL 3650: Plato
3 credits
The dialogues and their influence on later thought.
Department Opportunities
What are the resources for success at the university? How do you get involved in the department community? How do you best prepare for life after graduation?
Video: Get to Know the Department of Philosophy and Religion
Hear firsthand from students, faculty, and staff about the Philosophy program.
Earn your B.A. and M.A. in Philosophy in Five Years
The Accelerated B.A. and M.A. offers undergraduates the opportunity to begin earning credit towards a graduate degree while they complete the final requirements for their undergraduate degree. This will save you time and money as they complete their advanced degree.
Undergraduate philosophy students can apply to the Program for an Accelerated Advanced Degree after completing 90 credit hours with a GPA of 3.0. Accelerated BA/MA students who have performed well during their senior year may apply for a competitive graduate funding package that includes a 100% tuition waiver and a TA stipend for the Masters/fifth year.
What Can You Do With a Philosophy Degree?
- Co-Founder, Emmett Till Interpretive Center
- Associate Manager, Digitas
- Physician, North Mississippi Medical Center
- Professor, University of Alabama
- President, South Coast Oil Corporation
- Assistant U.S. Attorney, U.S. Dept of Justice
- Appropriations Committee Staff, U.S. Senate
- Sales Representative, Stryker Spine
- Senior Health Care Fellow, Mathematica
- Staff Council, MS Public Service Commission
- Superintendent, Vicksburg Warren School District
- Director of City Planning, Tupelo
Welcome to the College of Liberal Arts
As Coordinator of Student Recruitment for the College of Liberal Arts, I work with students, and their parents, who are interested in attending UM for their undergraduate degrees. I coordinate personalized visits to our departments, answer questions about the majors and programs in the CLA and handle all recruitment communications from the CLA. Please feel free to send me any questions you may have. It is my job to make sure you have everything you need to make an informed decision on where to spend your college career, and I hope it will be with the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Mississippi!
Annabelle Harris
CLA Coordinator of Student Recruitment
Future CLA Students
College of Liberal Arts Undergraduate Students
We invite future undergraduates to learn about the College of Liberal Arts, the value of the liberal arts education, our programs, career opportunities, and resources to help you succeed. You can also request a personalized degree sheet.
Next Steps
Explore Affordability
We have a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help make college more affordable for you and your family.
Apply to the University of Mississippi
Are you ready to take the next step toward building your legacy?