Think critically about the complex questions of our world. Search for understanding and wisdom through inquiry into fundamental questions regarding existence, knowledge and "how to live a good life."
Program Overview
Agreeing with Socrates that “the unexamined life is not worth living,” the B.S. in Philosophy asks student to think critically about the most complex, enduring questions regarding existence, knowledge, and values facing the world.
- How are right and wrong determined?
- Does science give us objective truth?
- Do humans have free will?
Through research, reflection, and discussion, the program equips students with the reasoning and critical-thinking skills needed to be responsible citizens and tomorrow’s global leaders.
Designed For Dual Majors
The philosophy program is designed to allow students to bring new perspectives to other fields of study.
Program Outcomes
Students who graduate from this program will be able to demonstrate the ability to:
- Apply critical thinking and logical reasoning in producing, analyzing, or evaluating ideas and arguments.
- Describe accurately, compare, and evaluate key features of a variety of approaches, ideas, and philosophers across the history of philosophy.
- Solve real-world problems using logical reasoning, development of concepts and ideas, and clear communication skills.
After Graduation
A degree in philosophy provides a solid foundation for careers and graduate studies in law, medicine, journalism, artificial intelligence, and more.
"Philosophy has greatly enhanced my learning experience at Rensselaer by refining my ability to grasp and reason through complex concepts while teaching me how to think more critically about the topics within my major."
— Mina Kodsi