Skip to main content
Philosophy
Philosophy at W&M
As a philosophy student, you will engage in the deepest questions about who we are and how we should live, preparing you to lead a reflective and purposive life. You will learn to develop arguments, think critically and logically, communicate clearly and write succinctly. Many W&M students double major or include a minor in their studies. A philosophy major usually complements the sciences and math, English, history, government and psychology.
Paths of Study
Applied Learning
-
Courses
Wonder What is Right and Wrong in the Contemporary World? Take PHIL 215 to find out.*
-
Research
Work on independent research with the chance to present at the annual undergraduate conference.
-
Diverse Philosophies Club
Discuss underrepresented work, new perspectives and diverse authorship with other students and faculty.
-
Student Awards
Have a chance to be awarded a Bosanko Scholarship, Miller Essay Award or Fuchs Scholarship.
Upcoming Events
Conferences & Colloquia
The department hosts conferences, workshops, and a colloquium series at which invited speakers from other colleges and universities present their research to an audience of W&M faculty and students.
Outcomes
Training in critical thinking, logic and analytical writing is highly valuable to prospective employers. W&M alumni pursue graduate study in philosophy and various other academic fields and enter professions such as law and nonprofit management, where training in philosophical analysis is particularly advantageous.
Hear from a Student
"I am in an international relations research lab that studies how the use of negative language and dehumanizing terms affects the reception of immigrants in European countries. I reached out to the professor to join the lab because I loved what they were doing. W&M professors are so easy to talk to, and the shared curiosity about modern-day problems leads to a collaborative atmosphere that benefits both the students and the faculty."
— Matthew Rodenberg '25, government and philosophy double major, pre-law track from Williamsburg, Virginia
Alumni & Friends
We love hearing from alumni! Please send us your news.
Support Philosophy
Your contributions allow us both to enhance the learning experience for our students and to support the scholarly endeavors of our faculty.
Contact The Department of Philosophy
Philosophy
Social Media
Mailing Address
Department of Philosophy William & Mary P.O. Box 8795 Williamsburg, VA 23187-8795
Contact Us
- Phone: 757-221-2716
- Email: [[philosophy]]
Courses Disclaimer
*Courses listed are examples. Course availability changes each semester.