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College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies

Major in Philosophy

Think deeply and analytically about some of the most interesting and complex issues of all time.

What We Offer

Our program will introduce you to a wide range of questions, develop your capacity to think for yourself about challenging issues, and help prepare you for graduate study, professional training and work in any field that requires clear and responsible thinking.

We offer a B.A. in philosophy and a B.S. in philosophy, plus three concentrations. These different programs cover basic core areas of philosophy while allowing students to pursue and showcase different areas of emphasis.

B.A. or B.S.?

The biggest differences between the B.A. in philosophy and the B.S. in philosophy relate to College of Humanities and Social Sciences requirements:

  • For the B.A., the college requires more courses in the humanities and social sciences, including a 3-credit 201-level course in a foreign language.
  • For the B.S., the college requires more courses in the natural sciences and mathematics, plus a 15-credit science or technology option.
  • Students with strong interests in a foreign language, history or literature.
  • Students who would like to transfer to a philosophy major from another major in the humanities or social sciences.
  • Students who would like to combine a major in philosophy with another major in the humanities or social sciences.
  • Students with strong interests in mathematics, science or technology.
  • Students who would like to transfer to a philosophy major from a major in mathematics, science or technology.
  • Students who would like to combine a major in philosophy with another major in mathematics, science or technology.

Degree Requirements

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Undergraduate Admissions

Start your application with the NC State admissions office.

Apply now

Add or Change a Major or Minor

Are you interested in adding a second major or changing your degree? We can help.

How to start the process

What Can I Do With My Degree?

A degree in philosophy prepares you for a career that requires critical and constructive thinking — including administration, consulting, editing, journalism, management, public service, research, business and much more.

Explore career paths
The NC State Belltower at dusk and night.

Philosophy Prize

The Philosophy Prize in honor of professor Robert S. Bryan was introduced in 2010-11. The prize, which includes a cash award, is presented each spring to an outstanding senior in philosophy.

  • 2023: Sophie Korenek
  • 2022: Aidan Farmer
  • 2021: Daniel Browning
  • 2020: Abby Scheper
  • 2019: Annabel Breen
  • 2018: Harrison Payne
  • 2017: Thomas Austin Olander
  • 2016: Arianna Sultana Nasser
  • 2015: Melodi T. Charles
  • 2014: Wilson Gray Maddrey
  • 2013: Kevin J.  Blackwell
  • 2012: Daniel C. Rowe
  • 2011: Jefferson Evans Guilford

contact us

Director of Undergraduate Advising

Catherine Driscoll
434B Withers Hall
Phone: 919-513-7846

catherine_driscoll@ncsu.edu

Student Services Associate

Kendall Hubbard
340A Withers Hall
Phone: 919-515-6100

khubbar4@ncsu.edu