Program Overview

Philosophy, Religion, and Law

The Philosophy, Religion, and Law (PRL) program brings together big ideas and practical skills. It's an interdisciplinary degree that lets you explore topics like the ethics of AI, war, and healthcare; how to think critically and argue clearly; the philosophy of law and justice; and how religion shapes cultures, values, and conflicts.

Along the way, you'll build a foundation in philosophy, religion, and law while developing the skills to navigate complexity, communicate across differences, and think ethically about the world. You'll also gain the cultural and religious understanding needed to take your place as a global citizen in an increasingly interconnected world.

Whether you're preparing for law school, public service, advocacy, or any path that demands clear thinking and a strong sense of purpose, PRL gives you the tools to lead a thoughtful, meaningful, and flourishing life.

What Will I Learn?

• Develop foundational skills in critical thinking, reading comprehension, and argumentative writing
• Gain a deep understanding of philosophy, world religions, and legal reasoning
• Learn to analyze complex ethical issues in areas such as:
  • Business administration
  • Healthcare and medical ethics
  • Public policy and law
  • Risk assessment and compliance
• Work with your advisor to specialize in a cross-disciplinary area through one of three guided pathways:
  • Religion and World Cultures
  • Ethics
  • Philosophy and Law
• Explore some of life's most challenging and meaningful questions about values, society, culture, and human history
• Prepare for careers or advanced study in law, public service, business, education, and more

Scholarships

• Forrest Wood Outstanding Philosophy Student Award
• Clayton and Mae Sullivan Outstanding Religion Minor Award

Why Pursue this Major?

Graduates of philosophy degree programs consistently score the highest on the LSAT and verbal and analytical writing sections of the GRE, and near the highest on the GMAT and other graduate admission exams.

Availability

• Philosophy, Religion, and Law BA: Hattiesburg, Online 100%
• Philosophy Minor
• Religion Minor

College of Arts and Sciences

Career Opportunities

• Teaching
• Diplomacy
• Law and Legal Services
• Business Administration
• Public Policy and Government
• Public Relations and Communications

Recent Program Alumni

• Brad Champine, 2012: Philosophy BA, Assistant District Attorney, Shelby County, Memphis, TN
• Michael Dodge, 2005: Philosophy BA, Assistant Professor in the Dept. of Space Studies, John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences
• James Ewing, 2009: Philosophy BA, Co-founder and CEO of Valet Energy
• Georgia Rea Rainer, 2013: Philosophy BA, Graduate Student of Philosophy, Florida State University
• Ilena Jimenez, 2017: Philosophy BA, Law Student, University of Colorado Law School
• Gary Kertis, 2004: Philosophy BA, Tech Account Manager, PubMatic, New York, NY