Department of Philosophy | University at Albany

Department of Philosophy

In pursuing philosophy, students develop their abilities to solve problems, communicate effectively, and organize ideas. Philosophy majors are successfully employed in many areas of both the private sector and government service where analytical skills and breadth of perspective is valued— in fields including law, journalism, education, publishing, civil service, public relations, and politics.

The recently-updated MA in Philosophy degree is now accepting applications! Check out some reasons why we hope you will apply.

Practical Reasons to Study Philosophy

Philosophy comes from the Greek meaning "love of wisdom." Thinking deeply about philosophical questions can be very rewarding. But what can you do with it at the end of the day? Philosophy is fundamentally about thinking clearly, reading carefully, arguing persuasively, and writing effectively. You can apply these skills to any problem and that can be more valuable than learning facts about a specific field.

Studying philosophy is flexible. Since there isn't a strict sequence of courses, it makes a great second major or minor regardless of what you want to do after college. The numbers back this up. Philosophy majors make more money 10 years after graduating with an undergraduate degree than any other humanities field majors. [source]

Through lectures, seminars, guided research, colloquia, student clubs, interdisciplinary and special studies programs, and visiting philosophers, a challenging and balanced context for philosophical development is provided for major and non-major alike.

Instructor Toan Tran helps a student with a logic problem

Alumni Spotlight

Sydelle Alvarez, class of 2016, was a Philosophy major with minors in Public Health and Bioethics.

What classes do you remember most fondly?
Morals and Society from my freshman year, I really liked the topic of ethics. After this class I decided to become a philosophy major.

What are you doing now? What are your future plans?
I'm currently a 2nd year masters student studying integrated marketing at NYU and I'm the global digital marketing intern for Calvin Klein fragrances at Coty, Inc. Future plans are to continue working as a digital marketer within the beauty industry.

What impact did studying philosophy have on you?
Studying philosophy taught me how to think critically and outside the box even as a marketing professional where I push myself to constantly develop strategic and creative campaigns.

Make a Gift to Philosophy

Department of Philosophy, College of Arts and Sciences

Humanities 257

1400 Washington Avenue
Albany, NY 12222
United States

[email protected]

Phone

518-442-4250

Office Hours

On site and by phone:
Monday thru Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.