Philosophy Major

Thinking critically is the ultimate transferable work skill.

Do you enjoy grappling with some of life's most difficult questions? Do you like analyzing and challenging important texts? If this sounds like you then consider philosophy. You'll strengthen your skills in research, writing, critical analysis, problem solving and more. Consider this major for a career in law, business, public administration or education. You'll also be well-prepared for graduate school.

Why study philosophy at the College of Charleston?

Join a supportive community that seeks to understand the human experience. You'll study our shared intellectual heritage and reflect on your own beliefs and values. We have small class sizes so you can get individual attention. You may conduct research alongside your professors.

What will I learn?

You'll study the methods philosophers use to tackle some of the deepest and most difficult questions we face. You'll use critical thinking to contemplate these questions. You'll develop essential skills for the classroom and your career. Learn to read carefully, write effectively and construct logical arguments. You'll have the opportunity to work on research alongside faculty and present at conferences. 

View Curriculum: Philosophy

Program Highlights

The philosophy major is quite flexible and can be adapted to your needs and interests. You can, for example, major in philosophy while pursuing a pre-med or pre-law curriculum. It is also possible to combine your study of philosophy with the study of another discipline. You may add a double major or minor in another field.
  • Hands-On Learning

    You'll have opportunities to learn in and outside of the classroom. You can pursue individual research under faculty supervision. You'll have the opportunity to present your work at conferences. You can join the Philosophy Club. This is a student-run club that provides conversations about philosophical ideas. You may take part in informal reading groups with students and faculty.

  • Internship and Volunteer Opportunities

    We will help connect you to networking opportunities. Internships, part-time jobs, service learning and volunteering will prepare you for your future. You can become a teaching apprentice in the department. You can also take part in the Washington, D.C. Semester Program for Democracy, Culture and the Arts. You may volunteer to tutor students in logic and writing for philosophy.

Careers & Outcomes

Angela Davis, Wes Anderson, Rep. John Lewis, Susan Sontag, and Matt Yglesias all majored in Philosophy. The skills you learn prepare you for graduate school or may lead you to a surprising career. Our students have been very successful and have followed a number a different career paths. Recent graduates have continued on to:
  • graduate school and law school.
  • the Peace Corps and Americorps.
  • teachers at every level of education.
  • political advocacy.
  • non-profit work.
  • filmmaking.
  • administration.
  • real estate.
  • religious service.
  • business management.

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A philosophy worth exploring

Patrick Wohlscheid '22 understands that the human condition is complicated. He's digging in to the tough questions and sharing his findings.

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About the Minor

A minor in philosophy is the perfect complement for any major. You'll develop the ability to reason well and to think critically. You'll learn how to communicate with others. You'll grapple with ethics and prepare to tackle life's tough questions outside of the classroom.

View Curriculum: Philosophy Minor