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Philosophy Major

What is a Major in Philosophy?

Major in philosophy at Virginia Tech to engage with the world of ideas and learn effective reasoning. Work with award-winning faculty to gain hands-on experience through special projects, study abroad, and internships. The major offers a degree track in premedical professions for students interested in pursuing careers in health or medicine. The philosophy major positions you for graduate and professional school as well as a variety of careers in business, education, government, journalism, law, medicine, and public policy.

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Why Study Philosophy at Virginia Tech?

Philosophy students are best-trained in the ability to understand and evaluate reasoning. The discipline provided by philosophical training prepares students for a variety of professional and scholarly fields where independent judgment, conceptual dexterity, and intellectual acumen are required. The skills of philosophy are universal skills, basic to professional expertise in fields such as law, business, journalism, and education. This accounts for why philosophy majors are among the most sought-after of all university graduates.

 
1:4
Faculty-Student Ratio

 
100%
Research Project Completion

 
62
Undergraduate Philosophy Majors

Careers and Further Study

What Can You Do with a Philosophy Major?

Jobs Held by Our Graduates

  • Executive Trainer
  • Business Analyst
  • Attorney
  • Finance Director
  • Family Therapist
  • Software Developer
  • Research Assistant
  • Teacher/Professor
  • Paralegal
  • Non-profit Coordinator
  • Journalist
  • Consultant
  • Healthcare Administrator
  • Political Analyst
  • Entrepreneur

Beyond the Classroom

Experiential Learning

Research 

Majoring in philosophy at Virginia Tech means joining an active and welcoming community. Our faculty work side-by-side with you to advise you on pursuing research interests, presenting and publishing their work, and preparing you for a career after graduation. 

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Come With Us

Studying abroad gives you the opportunity to connect with a different culture, experience new ways of thinking, and explore new places, all while gaining unique understandings and perspectives. Check out programs by visiting the study abroad page or by searching the Global Education Office's programs.

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Internships

In a competitive job market, experience is an important commodity. Internships provide you with valuable skills and real-world perspective regarding your chosen career field while giving you the opportunity to explore the possibilities for the future.

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Student Organizations 

The members of the Philosophy Club believe in the importance of wisdom. We believe in challenging assumptions and leaving nothing unquestioned: ignorance may be blissful, but it is not fulfilling. We desire to recognize our own ignorance and to do everything we can to overcome it. Realizing that recognizing one's own ignorance can be difficult for many reasons, we gather together to help each other overcome it and take the necessary steps to being that much wiser.

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Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy Degree

Philosophy Major Requirements

  • Ancient Through Medieval Philosophy
  • History of Modern Philosophy
  • Knowledge and Reality 
  • Philosophy of Mind 
  • Ethical Theory

Minor and Elective Hours

Our program gives you the opportunity to build knowledge in another area by pursuing a minor, double major, or cognate.


120 hrs
B.A. Philosophy

45 hrs
General Education

36 hrs
Major Requirements

39 hrs
Elective


 

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