Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy
At its core, the study of philosophy teaches you how to think — analytically, logically, and through the careful application of expert reading and writing skills. While you may not find a career as a philosopher, your BA in Philosophy is an excellent foundation for working in the law, communications, business, education, public policy, and a host of other fields.
Explore fundamental questions while developing and practicing essential, real-world skills.
While philosophy contends with somewhat abstract ideas like how we define reality, the nature of human existence, or how we can understand our life’s purpose, the study of philosophy is highly practical.
You’ll develop exceptional reasoning and analytical skills, practice communicating your ideas to others, and connect with others who are intrigued by using the philosophical method in real-world applications.
- Engage with faculty mentors to grow your skills in research through our Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program
- Hone core skills such as critical and analytical thinking, excellent verbal and written communication, assessing and integrating information and ideas, making evidence-based decisions, and finding elegant solutions to complex problems
- As you progress in your degree, you’ll have the opportunity to teach introductory philosophy courses, giving you practical experience as an educator
The Double Major of Choice
Since BA in Philosophy majors need just 33 credits to complete the major’s requirements, it is an excellent choice if you want to double major.
A few complementary majors include:
- BA in Anthropology (opens in new tab)
- BA in Communication Studies (opens in new tab)
- BA in Economics (opens in new tab)
- BA in English (opens in new tab)
- BA in History (opens in new tab)
- BA in Political Science (opens in new tab)
- BA in Sociology (opens in new tab)
You can consult your faculty mentor and academic advisor to choose the right combination that meets your goals.
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Why earn your bachelor’s degree in Philosophy at UM-Flint?
Engage with the community
We partner with many local organizations to offer you opportunities to apply your learning through internships.
One such organization is the Sylvester Broome Empowerment Village, which is affiliated with philosophy program faculty.
Develop core research and communication skills
UM-Flint’s philosophy faculty explore ideas around metacognition, the ethical considerations of scientific developments, and more.
Through individualized mentorship, you’ll have the opportunity to collaborate with them on research projects, community engagement initiatives, and co-curricular activities.
Enhance your knowledge and expertise
Several of UM-Flint’s minors and certificates are exceptional complementary programs to your study of philosophy. A few popular choices include:
- Anthropology Minor (opens in new tab)
- Biology Minor (opens in new tab)
- Communication Minor (opens in new tab)
- Design Thinking Certificate (opens in new tab)
- Economics Minor (opens in new tab)
- Entrepreneurship Minor (opens in new tab)
- Healthcare Ethics Certificate (opens in new tab)
- Humanistic Inquiry in the Liberal Arts Certificate (opens in new tab)
- Interaction Design Minor (opens in new tab)
- Linguistics Minor (opens in new tab)
- Political Science Minor (opens in new tab)
- Professional Writing Minor (opens in new tab)
- Psychology Minor (opens in new tab)
- Public Policy Minor (opens in new tab)
- Sociology Minor (opens in new tab)
Free Tuition with the Go Blue Guarantee!
UM-Flint students are automatically considered for the Go Blue Guarantee upon admission, a historic program offering free tuition for high-achieving, in-state undergraduates from lower-income households. Learn more about the Go Blue Guarantee to see if you qualify and how affordable a Michigan degree can be.
Curriculum Overview
UM-Flint offers a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and a Philosophy Minor.
BA in Philosophy
After establishing foundational knowledge in the study of philosophy, you’ll explore concepts involving value theory, the history of philosophy, metaphysics and epistemology, and then select from a series of electives that match your interest.
Philosophy Minor
This 18-credit program gives you a foundational understanding of philosophical thinking, value theory, and more.
Career Outlook
Your BA in Philosophy will train you with fundamental skills that are adaptable to an array of careers.
Here is a selection of career paths our alumni have taken, along with their 2024 median annual pay:
- Financial Analysts: $101,910
- Lawyers: $151,160
- Market Research Analysts: $76,950
- Operations Research Analysts: $91,290
- Postsecondary Teachers: $83,980
- Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers: $131,450
Many of these careers are growing at an average or higher rate.
Admission Requirements
Whether you’re a first-year student or a transfer student, we aim to keep the admissions process simple, saving you time and money. We accept applications on a rolling basis; however, we recommend submitting all application materials at least 1 month before you plan to start your first semester. Review our academic calendars to learn more.
When applying to UM-Flint’s BA in Philosophy program, please submit the following:
- A completed online or paper application
- Official transcripts from all previous schools
- Review UM-Flint’s complete undergraduate admission requirements.
Have questions about our admissions requirements or application process? Please contact our Office of Undergraduate Admissions at admissions.flint@umich.edu for more detailed information.
Academic Advisor
Scholarships for Philosophy students
UM-Flint offers two scholarships specifically for philosophy students:
- Candace Marie Bolter Scholarship
- Ralph M. and Emmalyn E. Freeman Philosophy Scholarship
Our Office of Financial Aid offers a variety of other scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. They’re all part of our effort to make your world-class UM-Flint education affordable.