Program Overview

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Philosophy Program Overview

The Philosophy program at the University of Dayton offers students the opportunity to investigate deep and difficult questions about human existence, morality, truth, and knowledge. The major is comprehensive and challenging, incorporating logic, ethics, the history of philosophy, and a generous number of electives that allow students to pursue their own particular interests.

Degree Information and Sample Plan

The objective of the philosophy major program is to provide students with the opportunity to understand contemporary philosophy in view of the history of philosophy. Students majoring in philosophy must successfully complete a minimum of 30 semester hours. The philosophy major program is also offered in India in conjunction with the Marianists.

Sample Plan of Study

This is a sample plan of study for students starting at the University of Dayton in the academic year. This is a recommended course sequence, but the schedule may vary depending on previously earned college credits, course availability, advisor recommendations, and personal goals and interests.

• Semester 1:
  • ASI 150 Introduction to the University Experience
  • HUM 101 Chaminade Seminar: Reading and Responding to the Signs of the Times
  • CMM 100 Principles of Oral Communication
  • CAP Social Science
  • L2 Language 101
  • Major Required Elective
  • Total Credit Hours: 16
• Semester 2:
  • HUM 102 Marie Thérčse Seminar: Human Dignity and the Common Good
  • CAP Arts
  • CAP Natural Science (with lab)
  • L2 Language 141
  • Major Required Elective
  • Total Credit Hours: 16
• Semester 3:
  • CAP Second Year English
  • CAP Math
  • L2 Language 201 or Contextual Course
  • PLW 301 Mock Trial
  • Major Required Electives (2 Required Choices)
  • Total Credit Hours: 16
• Semester 4:
  • CAP Advanced Religious Studies, Faith Traditions
  • Arts
  • Social Sciences
  • PLW 301 Mock Trial
  • Major Required Elective
  • Open PHL Elective
  • Total Credit Hours: 16
• Semester 5:
  • CAP Advanced History, Diversity and Social Justice
  • Natural Sciences / Math
  • Humanities
  • PLW 301 Mock Trial
  • Major Required Seminar
  • Open PHL Elective
  • Total Credit Hours: 16
• Semester 6:
  • CAP Major capstone (PHL 480)
  • Depth Electives (3 Courses)
  • Major Required Seminar
  • Open PHL Elective
  • Total Credit Hours: 18

3+3 J.D. Accelerated Program for Philosophy

For undergraduate students pursuing any Bachelor of Arts degree, the College of Arts and Sciences and the School of Law offers a 3+3 J.D. program, allowing students to complete their Bachelor's Degree and Juris Doctor in a total of 6 years.

Why Study Philosophy at UD?

Driven, high-achieving philosophy majors are now eligible to matriculate directly into the University of Dayton School of Law. Undergraduates must participate in the Core Program and declare a philosophy major by the end of the fall semester of their second year.

Related Degrees and Programs

• Philosophy (Minor)
• Philosophy, Justice and Society (Minor)
• 3+3 J.D. Program
• Communication (B.A.)
• Criminal Justice Studies (B.A.)
• Economics (B.A.)
• English (B.A.)
• History (B.A.)
• Human Rights Studies (B.A.)
• International Studies (B.A.)
• Political Science (B.A.)
• Premedicine (B.S.)
• Psychology (B.A., B.S.)
• Sociology (B.A.)
• Sustainability (B.A., B.S.)
• Women's and Gender Studies (B.A.)
• Global Cultures (Minor)
• Marianist Studies (Minor)
• Race and Social Justice (Minor)
• Ethics and Leadership (Undergraduate Certificate)
• Nonprofit and Community Leadership (Graduate Certificate)

Tuition and Financial Aid

The University of Dayton is dedicated to being transparent and ensuring student success. A variety of scholarships, grants, loans, and part-time work-study are available to help students cover their costs.

Success After Graduation

At the College of Arts and Sciences, students have the opportunity to combine the classroom and business world together in a way that allows them to further sharpen their skills. This is a key reason why employers love hiring University of Dayton students they can hit the ground running.

Career Statistics

• $61,798 average starting salary for University of Dayton graduates in all majors
• 97% success rate after graduation across all majors

Design Your Academic Path

Core Program

All first-year philosophy majors are enrolled in the Core program. To deepen the learning experience, Core students live together while participating in an innovative, interdisciplinary curriculum.

Phi Sigma Tau

The University of Dayton hosts a chapter of the national philosophy honor society, Phi Sigma Tau. This offers a setting in which students can pursue philosophical reflection and dialogue with philosophy faculty outside of formal classroom work.

Richard R. Baker Philosophy Colloquium

The Richard R. Baker Philosophy Colloquium brings outstanding scholars from across the country to campus to present and discuss their research, focusing on either a set of philosophical issues or the work of a renowned individual philosopher.

Dean's Summer Fellowship Program

The Deans Summer Fellowship program provides an opportunity for undergraduate students in the College of Arts and Sciences to conduct research during the summer under the guidance of a full-time faculty mentor.