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.
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.
Philosophy majors ask big questions and promote justice, valuable in diverse settings.
Apply philosophical concepts in real-world scenarios through partnerships, podcasts, and debunking conspiracies.
Seniors research philosophical questions independently, presenting findings to peers and seeking publication.
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.
| 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 |
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.
| Expense | By semester | By year |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time tuition (12-18 credits)* | $18,917 | $37,833 |
| Housing** | $4,140 | $8,280 |
| Food*** | $2,750 | $5,500 |
| Technology fee | $140 | $280 |
| Total direct charges (billable) | $25,947 | $51,893 |
*Based on 2025-2026 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.
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.
Accreditation and recognitions provide the assurance we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability.
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.
At St. Ambrose, we want you to thrive. Access free tutoring, study groups, and supplemental instruction through our Student Success Center.
Whether you need classroom accommodations, alternative exam arrangements, or disability support strategies, our Accessibility Resource Center is here to help.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
"The Ambrose Advantage allowed me to come to college without much worry about debt in my future."
-Caleb Gillmore, Monticello, Iowa
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.
Here are the admissions requirements for our Philosophy program.
If you live outside of the U.S., there are different admissions requirements. Here’s what you’ll need:
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
Potential employment settings
Traits of a Philosophy graduate
For more information on philosophy employment and wages, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook.
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With more than 65 undergraduate and graduate programs, there’s something for everyone at St. Ambrose University! Explore our programs to find your place at SAU.
