Bachelor of Arts - Philosophy

The philosophy department at Alma College has a particular strength in the area of applied ethics, but aims to provide a solid grounding in all the core areas of philosophy.

Philosophy is the study of fundamental questions about the nature of reality and one's place within it. It involves unearthing and evaluating assumptions that are normally taken for granted.

Philosophical questions arise in all areas of study and human activity, such as:

the nature of scientific knowledge

how one can distinguish good from bad reasoning

the justification of belief in God

the foundation (if any) of morality

Some philosophy students continue to study philosophy at graduate school and go on to become professors. Many philosophy graduates go to law school, where the ability to analyze and present arguments, which is central to philosophy, is a prerequisite for success.

More generally, the critical thinking and writing skills at which philosophy majors get extensive practice are invaluable in virtually any field, including government, education, and business.

Some students double major in philosophy and a second, more career-oriented discipline, such as business.