What you'll learn studying Philosophy at UW-Platteville
At the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, you can earn a bachelor’s degree or a minor in the study of interdisciplinary philosophy. The academic program is offered through the vibrant Department of Humanities in the College of Liberal Arts and Education.
Philosophy literally means the “love of wisdom.” This intellectual discipline enables us to think more critically and rigorously and then develop genuine insights about some of the most fundamental questions of life: What is human nature? Do humans have free will? What is genuine happiness? What makes an action “right” or “wrong”? What can we know for certain? Does God exist?
By challenging our students to think carefully about perennial questions like these, the Interdisciplinary Philosophy program provides a pathway to a fulfilling life of the mind.
As philosophical questions are raised across the whole range of human experience, and by a variety of academic disciplines, when you major in integrated philosophy you will graduate with skills and knowledge you can apply in diverse professions, whether you choose to work inside or outside of the academy.
Why study Philosophy?
Through this academic major, you will acquire a foundation of knowledge in philosophy, complemented by knowledge in a companion discipline related to your philosophical or career interests. You will grow your critical-thinking skills and build an excellent foundation, whether starting your career after earning your degree or continuing your studies in law school or graduate school.
The philosophy program offers both a major and minor, encompassing the whole sweep of the history of philosophy. It also offers important courses if you are majoring in other disciplines. Some of those courses include:
- Introduction to Philosophy
- Ethics
- Philosophy of Religion
- Philosophy of Law
As a philosophy major, you may graduate with honors in philosophy by maintaining a high grade point average and, in your senior year, completing an independent research project.
Careers in Philosophy
Studying the humanities, including philosophy, can prepare you for a variety of careers in the corporate, nonprofit, religious, and government sectors. Whether your interest is working in law, marketing and communications, publishing, education, the arts, or other fields, you will gain the skills and knowledge to succeed. Studying philosophy can be your path to making a life, but also to making a living. In fact, there is no career whose foundations are untouched by philosophy.
Philosophy graduates from UW-Platteville are now employed in many professions, as there is always a demand for able and thoughtful people. Some of the most popular and fastest-growing careers for philosophy majors and minors include:
- Attorney
- Business professional
- Clergy/religious leader
- Community services liaison
- Counselor
- Diplomat
- Editor
- Information technology specialist
- Journalist
- Librarian
- Political scientist
- Probation officer
- Sales leader
- Therapist
- Writer
The study of philosophy is valuable to you as a person, no matter what specific career you may have in mind. After attaining a bachelor’s degree, many students go on to graduate school in philosophy or prepare for a professional career.
Discover by doing
In addition to attending lectures and participating in classroom discussions, as a philosophy major or minor, you will learn through experiential learning opportunities, such as conducting research, doing internships, and attending exciting university events.
