Minor Available
125 credits
125 credits
required for program
Minor Available
Department of Biblical & Theological Studies
Philosophy
Department of Biblical & Theological Studies
Philosophy
- Bachelor of Arts
- Undergraduate
Get relevant Bible training to inform your study of philosophy. Explore what is real, what we can know, how we should think, and how we should live. Be prepared for graduate study in any field.
Philosophy may be the right degree for you if you
- love to explore ideas
- want to communicate ideas that matter
- enjoy learning about issues and finding creative solutions
- want to boost your skills in communication and analysis
Why study philosophy at Northwestern?
Examine philosophy through the lens of theology from Christian philosophers who think deeper and want you to grow in your faith. Begin to see how everything exists in Christ. “For in Christ all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible … He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” Colossians 1:16-17 NIV
Ideas are powerful. At UNW, you'll learn to evaluate and communicate them effectively by exploring connections. You'll discern how to respond to important ethical issues facing our world today.
A philosophy degree has exceptional earning potential. Employers value creative problem-solving and analytical abilities. Studying philosophy will help you excel in these skills.
4 main areas of philosophy
Enjoy thought-provoking discussions as you learn more about philosophy:
- Ethics (how we should live)
- Metaphysics (the nature of reality)
- Logic (rules for reasoning)
- Epistemology (the nature of knowledge)
Study philosophers from ancient times to the present.
Opportunities to grow
This is the place to:
- Work with faculty on research projects
- Share your insights by presenting at a conference
- Participate in monthly science & theology chapels
- Consider adding a minor of your choice
- Apply for Northwestern's prestigious Eagle Scholars honors program for high-achieving students
- Take assessments to discover your God-given personality, strengths and values
Listen to Steven and Marie talk about their experience in the philosophy major.
Careers in philosophy
A degree in philosophy will benefit you in any career.
What types of work are related to this degree?
- Consulting
- Teaching (additional education may be needed)
- Research
- Administration
- Academic affairs
- Foreign service
- Library sciences
- Law enforcement
- Bioethics
- Environmental ethics or policy
- Law-related pursuits
- Politics
- Legislative, executive, or judicial services
- Public policy/analysis
Who employs people with this degree?
- Special interest groups
- Labor unions
- Research organizations and think tanks
- Mission agencies
- Churches and parachurch organizations
- Environmental agencies
- Colleges and universities
- Hospitals, medical, and professional schools
- Nonprofit organizations
- Law firms
- Consulting firms
- Federal, state, or local governments
Strategies for success:
- It is important for philosophy students to identify potential career goals and seek out the experiences and education required to enter those fields.
- An undergraduate degree qualifies one for entry-level positions in business, nonprofit organizations and government.
- Join related student or professional organizations. Work toward leadership roles.
- Develop knowledge in other areas such as mathematics, medical or business ethics, science, or religion.
- A high GPA and faculty recommendations are key when applying to graduate programs.
- A PhD is required for college/university teaching and research.
- Seek related summer or part-time work experience or internships in area(s) of interest.
- Conduct informational interviews or shadow professionals in fields of interest.
Professional associations:
- American Philosophical Association
- American Society for Bioethics and Humanities
- Association for Practical and Professional Ethics
- Society for Business Ethics
- Evangelical Philosophical Society
- American Philosophical Practitioners Association
- Society of Biblical Literature
- The Evangelical Theological Society
- The Center for Bioethics & Human Dignity
Philosophy
graduates earn top scores nationwide on GRE and LSAT exams
95%
of seniors received relevant and appropriate preparation for their field
Graduates
of philosophy double their income in the first 10 years of employment
What will I learn?
You will develop valuable skills in creative problem-solving, think deeper, and analyze key concepts.
Discover the Department of Biblical & Theological Studies
Professors at Northwestern are focused on their students first. Our faculty include experts in their respective fields who want to help you grow in your faith while you earn your degree.
Meet the staff Explore the department