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Philosophy is the oldest, broadest, and most fundamental form of inquiry. It's a discipline that bridges the humanities and sciences, offering fresh perspectives on both. As a philosophy major, you'll wrestle with moral questions about justice, law and ethics, investigate scientific puzzles about the mind and quantum mechanics, and explore how words shape meaning and truth. But philosophy is more than a set of big questions—it's a way of thinking. It uses logic and reason to break down complex ideas, revealing new insights about the world and our place in it. 

As a philosophy major at Illinois, you'll sharpen your critical thinking, logic, and communication skills—tools that can't be automated and are essential in a world that's constantly evolving. 

The flexibility of the philosophy major allows students to customize their path through the curriculum and follow their interests. In small, discussion-centered classes you’ll be part of a supportive atmosphere both inside and outside the classroom. You'll learn how to think critically and rigorously, communicate difficult ideas, identify faulty assumptions, make sound arguments, and engage in debate over complex issues—skills that will set you up for success in a diverse range of careers. 

Philosophy major Degree requirements

Minimum required major and supporting coursework normally equates to 44 hours including at least 32 hours of Philosophy courses.

Twelve hours of 300- and 400-level courses in the major must be taken on this campus.

A Major Plan of Study Form must be completed and submitted to the LAS Student Affairs Office before the end of the fifth semester (60-75 hours). Please see your advisor.

Download a sample course sequence

Required philosophy courses (20 hours)

  • PHIL 202 - Symbolic Logic (3 hours)
  • PHIL 203 - Ancient Philosophy (4 hours)
  • PHIL 206 - Early Modern Philosophy (4 hours)
  • PHIL 421 - Ethical Theories (3 hours)
  • At least one course in Epistemology or Metaphysics chosen from the following:
    • PHIL 426 - Metaphysics (3 hours)
    • PHIL 430 - Theory of Knowledge (3 hours)

If possible, students should take these courses prior to their senior year. Substitutions may be made only with the approval of the head of the department.

Capstone Course (3 hours)

  • PHIL 499 - Capstone Seminar (3)

Elective philosophy coursework (12 hours)

Students must complete at least 12 additional hours of coursework in philosophy, with 9 of those hours being above the 100-level (including at least two 300- or 400-level courses).

Cognate or minor or double major (12 hours)

A student may select either of two types of programs of supporting coursework and should work out a specific program of the type chosen with the help and approval of the department adviser. Coursework must be at least twelve hours. 

Select 1 of the below options

Option 1: Coursework in another discipline

Courses normally beyond the 100 level in one other discipline. Most approved minors satisfy this requirement. A second major may also be used to satisfy this requirement.

Option 2: Special program of study built around a unifying theme or topic

Coursework outside philosophy in one or more other discipline(s), normally beyond the 100 level.

 

Departmental Distinction

Eligibility for distinction may be pursued by either: (1) the thesis option, which requires at least 35 hours of philosophy courses (including 5 courses at the 300- or 400-level), a grade point average of 3.0 in all philosophy courses, and writing a thesis; or (2) the course work option, which requires 38 hours of philosophy (including 8 advanced courses) and a 3.5 grade point average in all philosophy courses. 

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What can you do with a degree in philosophy?

Our graduates are innovators and leaders in a wide range of fields including business, law, technology, education, public policy, the diplomatic corps, and more. They also have among the highest salaries of any non-STEM majors and excel on entrance exams for law school, medical school, and graduate school.

At Illinois, 99% of 2022-2023 philosophy graduates secured a first destination right after graduation, with an impressive median starting salary of $76,000. 

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