The bachelor's degree in Philosophy at NDMU explores the ideas of Western Philosophy's great thinkers and applies those concepts to current issues through scholarship and interactive discussion. Our program focuses on social justice issues impacting the world today, including those related to equity, race, sexuality, and vulnerable populations. This unique emphasis combined with a study of philosophers from traditionally underrepresented groups leads our philosophy majors to develop a broader perspective and the ability to communicate an informed point of view in a logical, respectful way. These skills are invaluable to employers and can lead graduates to a successful career in any number of fields.
Research
One of the hallmarks of the rich educational environment at NDMU is the opportunity to participate in research in your field of interest. Our annual Nancy Kreiter Student Research Day provides the perfect forum to showcase your hard work with a formal research presentation to the NDMU community.
Capstone Experience
In the fourth year, philosophy majors take everything learned over four years to complete a senior research thesis as a culminating capstone project. Under faculty guidance, a philosophical topic of interest is chosen to explore in greater depth and develop into a thesis.
The capstone experience is an opportunity to reflect on your growth, further explore your interests, and prepare to present your work professionally.
Get Involved
Ethics Bowl
The regional Ethics Bowl is an opportunity to use the skills developed in the Philosophy program to compete against other colleges and universities in a challenging debate-style competition. Each year, the Philosophy Department sponsors a team of students to represent NDMU.
The team receives a book of cases several months in advance and meets as a class over the course of the semester to evaluate the ethical issues presented in each case. When it’s time to compete, the team must be ready to present the cases, debate the issues, and respond to counterarguments and challenges by the judges.
Clubs & Honor Societies
The philosophy department at NDMU offers opportunities to get involved beyond the classroom through clubs and activities throughout the semester. Join the Philosophy Club for student-led activities or if eligible, become a member of Phi Sigma Tau, our chapter of the national philosophy honor society.
Philosophy Careers
The ability to think critically, present a reasoned argument, and make ethical decisions are skills that often stand out to future employers. A degree in philosophy can be particularly well-suited as a foundation for pursuing professional programs such as law or medicine.
Graduates of the NDMU philosophy program have gone on to pursue advanced degrees and careers in fields including:
- Business
- Education
- Healthcare Administration
- Law
- Medicine
- Politics
- Public Policy
- Theatre
Additional Info
Sample program of study for the philosophy major. Students should select courses with the assistance of a faculty advisor.
| Fall | Spring | ||
|---|---|---|---|
First Year |
|||
| ENG-101 College Writing | 3 | PHL-201 Introduction to Philosophy | 3 |
| NDMU-100 1st Year Seminar | 4 | General Education/Electives | 3 |
| General Education/Electives | 4 | ||
| [11 credits] | [6 credits] | ||
Second Year |
|||
| PHL Historical sequence course | 3 | PHL Ethics/Value Theory Course | 3 |
| General Education/Electives | 12 | PHL 300/400 Elective | 3 |
| General Education/Electives | 12 | ||
| [15 credits] | [18 credits] | ||
Third Year |
|||
| PHL Religion and Human nature course | 3 | PHL Metaphysics and Epistemology course | 3 |
| PHL Social Philosophy | 3 | PHL Seminar course | 3 |
| General Education/Electives | 9 | General Education/Electives | 9 |
| [15 credits] | [15 credits] | ||
Fourth Year |
|||
| PHL 300/400 Elective | 3 | PHL 300/400-level elective | 3 |
| PHL 411—Senior Thesis | 3 | General Education/Electives | 12 |
| General Education/Electives | 9 | [15 credits] | |
| [15 credits] | |||
If you are interested in pursuing a professional program after graduation, NDMU offers specialized advising to help you prepare.
Types of Professional Programs
- Health Professions (Medical, Dental, Veterinary & More)
- Law School
- Pharmacy School
- Veterinary School
Pre-professional coordinators can help you:
- Choose a profession that aligns with your interests and goals
- Select a bachelor’s degree program that will meet required prerequisites to apply to a professional school
- Monitor your academic progress through in-depth, one-on-one advising sessions
- Explore experiential learning opportunities and secure internships
- Connect with alumni who currently work in the field
- Prepare for the application process