Our Philosophy program offers a foundation for diverse career paths like law, education, and public policy. Through critical analysis and ethical reasoning, you’ll explore complex philosophical questions. Supported by dedicated faculty, you’ll develop skills for success in various professions. Graduate as a thoughtful leader ready to contribute meaningfully to society.
What is a Philosophy degree?
Reduce tuition by up to $24k
Why earn a BA in Philosophy?
This degree program creates a community of dynamic thinkers. Through free and open inquiry, students learn to hold a fundamental respect for the dignity and freedom of humanity and regard for the importance of social issues, so that ultimately they become active contributors in creating a just society.
Pairs well with other majors
Philosophy majors ask big questions and promote justice, valuable in diverse settings.
Real-world experience
Apply philosophical concepts in real-world scenarios through partnerships, podcasts, and debunking conspiracies.
Research and publishing opportunities
Seniors research philosophical questions independently, presenting findings to peers and seeking publication.
What you’ll learn in your Philosophy program
This program cultivates intellectual curiosity, creativity, and the ability to engage deeply with fundamental questions about existence, morality, and the human condition. You’ll explore questions about the nature of reality, knowledge, morality, and the mind, exploring various philosophical theories and arguments. They develop critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and communication skills through rigorous examination of complex issues and the construction and evaluation of arguments.
- Argument analysis
- Moral issues surrounding sexuality
- Exploring technology from interdisciplinary perspectives
- Ethical principles and decision-making in healthcare professions
- Ethical principles in the professional and business world
Explore philosophy courses
- This degree will require you to complete a total of 120 credits.
- You will complete 36 gen ed credits, 30 credits in Philosophy, 4 elective credits, and 1 capstone course.
Sample courses
| Class code | Class title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| PHIL 102 | Critical Thinking | 3 credits |
| PHIL 305 | Business Ethics | 3 credits |
| PHIL 310 | Bio-Medical Ethics | 3 credits |
| PHIL 340 | Philosophy of Sex and Love | 3 credits |
| PHIL 385 | Artificial Intelligence & Philosophy Workshop | 3 credits |
How much does a BA in Philosophy degree cost?
The cost of your degree will depend on several factors, like scholarships, housing, meal plans, and transfer credits. New students also pay a $100 matriculation fee. You will also need to budget for books, supplies, materials, transportation, personal costs, loan fees, and other expenses. Explore the cost of attendance.
Full-time student living on campus
| Expense | By semester | By year |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time tuition (12-18 credits)* | $19,674 | $39,348 |
| Housing** | $4,313 | $8,625 |
| Food*** | $3,135 | $6,270 |
| Technology fee | $150 | $300 |
| Total direct charges (billable) | $27,272 | $54,543 |
*Based on 2026-2027 tuition and fees. Tuition and fees are subject to change each summer.
**This cost is estimated, actual housing cost will vary by student selections.
***Cost estimate based on 3 meals per day.
How much does campus housing cost?
When it comes to housing, St. Ambrose University offers diverse options to meet the needs of our students. From traditional dormitories to apartment-style living, there’s something for everyone. The cost of our housing will vary based on where you decide to live and the meal plan you choose.
St. Ambrose University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Accreditation and recognitions provide the assurance we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability.
How does SAU support Philosophy students?
Philosophy faculty are readily available to answer any questions students may have. They also lead field trips to philosophy talks at the University of Iowa, small group philosophy discussions, and department ice cream socials. These activities create excellent opportunities for bonding and networking both within the department and beyond. Faculty also provide one-on-one mentoring during the Philosophy Senior Capstone.
Philosophy faculty
Other support resources
Student Success Center
At St. Ambrose, we want you to thrive. Access free tutoring, study groups, and supplemental instruction through our Student Success Center.
Accessibility Resource Center
Whether you need classroom accommodations, alternative exam arrangements, or disability support strategies, our Accessibility Resource Center is here to help.
Career services
Our Academic and Career Planning Center is ready to help you polish your resume and land the job or internship that will launch your career.
Are there scholarships available for a BA in Philosophy?
At St. Ambrose University, we believe that education should be accessible to all. That's why we offer a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help make college more affordable for our students. We are committed to providing our students with the resources they need to succeed academically and financially.
Ambrose Advantage Scholarship
Through the Ambrose Advantage Scholarship program, a tuition-free St. Ambrose University education is available to any Pell Grant-eligible Iowans. Learn more about the Ambrose Advantage.
Merit-Based and Institutional Scholarships
St. Ambrose offers excellent scholarships and grants based on your strong academic performance, your talent in fine arts or athletics, or your community involvement. Explore SAU scholarships.
Transfer credits
At SAU, you may be able to transfer previous college credit toward your bachelor’s degree, saving you significant time and money. Learn how to transfer credits.
Focus on your career. Not debt.
"The Ambrose Advantage allowed me to come to college without much worry about debt in my future."
-Caleb Gillmore, Monticello, Iowa
What’s on campus for Philosophy students?
The Philosophy Department runs the Quad Cities Philosophy Pub, a community group that hosts lively public discussions facilitated by local experts covering important and thought-provoking topics at local pubs and eateries. There are also ice cream socials and field trips within the department.
What are the general admission requirements for a BA in Philosophy?
Here are the admissions requirements for our Philosophy program.
- You must have graduated from an accredited high school or earned a GED
- You must have a minimum cumulative, unweighted GPA of 2.5
- You must provide an official high school transcript
International student requirements
If you live outside of the U.S., there are different admissions requirements. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Official transcripts from secondary education
- A minimum 2.5 CGPA out of a 4.0 scale, or equivalent
- Proof of English language proficiency (minimum scores: TOEFL - 79, IELTS - 6.0)
- Copy of your passport and other documentation
What can I do with a Philosophy degree?
Your education and degree can help you reach your professional goals. St. Ambrose University can never promise a career or particular outcome upon graduating. We encourage you to explore potential jobs and employment settings. Here is a list of potential job titles, traits, and settings a graduate in our Philosophy program could achieve.
Potential job titles
- Ethics consultant
- Policy analyst
- Professor
- Public relations specialist
- Environmental ethics specialist
Potential employment settings
- Schools/universities
- Environmental organizations
- Non-Profit organizations
- Political campaigns
- Media companies
Traits of a Philosophy graduate
- Curiosity
- Open-mindedness
- Ethical awareness
- Communication skills
- Critical thinking
Industry facts
- As a philosophy professor, the average salary is $78,780 per year. That average can be acquired with about five years of experience.
- The job market for philosophy professors is set to grow in the next ten years, with a job outlook growth set to create about 19,590 jobs.
For more information on philosophy employment and wages, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook.
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Become who you are meant to be
With more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs, there’s something for everyone at St. Ambrose University! Explore our programs to find your place at SAU.
