About the Department

The Philosophy Department specializes in researching and teaching about the nature of ethics and value.  We divide the major into concentrations that align with faculty research interests and specializations.

  • Josh Glasgow advises the Pre-Law and Applied Ethics concentration.  This concentration is ideal for students who are interested in pursuing careers in law, public policy and/or public administration.
  • Andy Wallace and Gillian Parker advise The Good Life concentration. This concentration is ideal for students who are interested in the foundations of ethics and value, especially from a multidisciplinary point of view.
  • John Sullins advises the Science, Technology, and Ethics concentration.  This concentration is ideal for students who are interested in ethical problems associated with artificial intelligence and the application of science to social problems. 
  • Megan Burke advises the Social Justice concentration. This concentration is ideal for students who are interested in studying problems of equity, justice, fairness, gender, racial and economic discrimination.  

The department trains students for ethically informed careers in the public and private sectors.  Students who are motivated to make the world a better place will find philosophy a perfect major for them.  Students will learn about the foundations of ethics and value, how to clarify their own core values, how to solve moral problems, and how to develop careers that reflect and express their ethical commitments. 

The Philosophy department is also home to the Center for Ethics and Law in Society (CELS).  CELS offers a lecture series each Fall. Leading scholars and activists speak on vital moral problems, such as climate change, social justice, health care, freedom of the press, and more. Students can enroll in the lecture series, earning credits towards their major, and have opportunities to meet and interact with guest speakers.  Internships with CELS are also possible.