Philosophy

Major or Minor

Explore the philosophy bachelor's degree program at UW-Eau Claire

Explore life’s biggest questions — and use reason and argument in an attempt to answer them — with a bachelor’s degree in philosophy from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.

As a philosophy major, you’ll learn to think critically, argue forcefully and read carefully. Classes within the program will help you to understand the history of philosophy and how it has shaped modern thought and culture. Through coursework and unique projects, you'll learn to carefully analyze thoughts and arguments concerning a wide range of issues, from politics to sociology, to mathematics, science, literature and beyond.

With chances to study abroad, intern locally and participate in faculty-led research, you'll find endless opportunities to open your mind — and build your resume. Upon graduation, you'll have developed skills in analytical reasoning, problem-solving, communication and creativity, all of which can help you grow.

Why philosophy at UW-Eau Claire?

Insightful internships. The extensive education you receive at UW-Eau Claire makes you a great candidate for exciting and career-building internships. For example, a partnership with Memorial High School will provide you with the opportunity to co-teach a philosophy class, earning credit in addition to gaining invaluable experience.

Unique curriculum. Coursework throughout the philosophy program is designed to give you a comprehensive education. Our expert faculty utilize their diverse backgrounds to offer varied and compelling courses, such as Philosophy and Feminism, Environmental Ethics, Philosophical Perspectives on Forgiveness and Philosophy and Film.

Opportunities to take your studies to the field. At UWEC, we believe that in order to get the most out of your education, you need to have real-life experiences outside of the classroom. Many philosophy majors take part in cultural immersion or study abroad programs. Explore places like Australia, England, Greece, Scotland and Chile.

Endless job possibilities. Philosophy graduates find themselves well prepared for advanced study or a career in a variety of fields, including law, business, social work, politics, data science, research and education. No matter your path, you'll graduate with the knowledge, skills and tools to make a positive impact on all your future endeavors.

Connection to local employers. Annual on-campus Career Conferences and a Non-Profit and Government Career Fair bring potential employers right to you. These events are excellent opportunities to network and submit your resume for current and future job openings.

100% employed

or continuing education after graduation

2020-2021 Graduate Report

Quick facts

Philosophy program details

Program length: four years
Offered: in person
Campus: Eau Claire
This major requires a minor or certificate.
This program is also available as a minor.
Students majoring in this program may choose either a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) degree.

Student organizations

Philosophy Club

What can I do with a philosophy degree from UWEC?

With an emphasis placed on reason, logic and argumentation, a degree in philosophy is excellent preparation for a wide range of careers, as well as post-graduate education. Philosophy majors tend to do very well on the qualitative reasoning and analytical writing portions of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and are typically among the highest scorers on the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), the Graduate Management Aptitude Test (GMAT) and the Medical College Aptitude Test (MCAT).

Philosophy jobs

Organizational specialist
Attorney
Membership director
Research consultant
Legal secretary
Data scientist
Job coach

The true strength of studying philosophy is in helping all of us become disciplined and careful thinkers — the benefits of which apply to all of life’s various compartments.

Nathaniel Taylor Philosophy

Philosophy bachelor's degree program curriculum

Rooted in discussion and experiential learning, you will explore fascinating topics while at UW-Eau Claire. You may try to define happiness, analyze the relationship between art and society, examine the philosophical thinking on the nature and value of friendship or learn the history of American pragmatism.

Because much of the program requires argumentation, logic, ethics and critical thinking, those wishing to declare a pre-law path may find that majoring in philosophy is beneficial.