Philosophy

Studying philosophy at Wheaton means exploring life’s biggest questions in a Christ-centered community with faculty who see philosophy as a way to know Christ, who is the true Logos. Our program is both deep and engaging, focusing on primary texts, key moments in philosophical history, and a wide range of ideas and methods. For those considering graduate school, you will gain the knowledge and experience you need to succeed in top programs.

Credential Type

  • B.A.

Major Credits Required

  • 40

Offered As

  • Major, Integrated Major, Minor

Other Academic Opportunit

  • Philosophy Honors Thesis (By application only)

100+ graduates with a philosophy Ph.D.

Wheaton’s historically strong program has played a leading role developing the voice of Christian philosophy nationwide.

2 full philosophy majors

Choose Philosophy, or a double major in Philosophy and Art History

15+ Integrated Majors

24 hours of Philosophy plus 16 hours of designated courses in a companion discipline

Connect with Admissions

You can reach us anytime via admissions@wheaton.edu.

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Robert O'Connor teaching Philosophy class at HoneyRock

Faces and Spaces Where You’ll Learn, Who You’ll Meet

Our Faculty

Our faculty is committed to a pluralistic understanding of philosophical methodology, while unified in our commitment to the history of philosophy and to faith-seeking understanding. Our areas of expertise include philosophy of science, Existentialism, philosophical psychology, Feminism, philosophical theology, and medieval philosophy.

Our Students

Study alongside some of the best and brightest young Christian minds, committed like you to digging deep for answers to tough questions. Our graduates regularly enter top-tier graduate programs in philosophy, theology, and law among others, and pursue a diverse array of different career paths.

Our Experiences

Meet regularly to discuss issues at Philosophy Club, work closely with faculty as a teaching assistant, or pursue individual philosophical interests further through independent research. Hear from expert scholars from across the nation as they present cutting-edge philosophical research in our annual Speaker’s Series.

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Program Highlight

Philosophy Speaker Series

The annual Philosophy Speaker Series brings scholars from across the country to present new work being done in philosophy and to discuss topics of crucial interest to Christian thinkers.  Recent lectures have addressed topics such as challenges to the project of theodicy, divine hiddenness, defending human dignity, the postmodern turn in hermeneutics, and the nature of Christian hope.  Ample time is always given to questions and discussion.  We invite you to join us for these thought-provoking lectures throughout the year.

Learn About This Year's Speaker Series

WITH Wheaton Opportunities Across Campus & Beyond

Interdisciplinary learning is a way of life at Wheaton. Aside from your work within your chosen major, you can enrich your educational experience and connect with peers and professors across campus (and beyond) in many ways.


Real-World Learning at Wheaton & Beyond

  • Summer Research
  • Study Abroad (Oxford, Mexico)
  • Internships
  • Teaching assistant positions
  • Departmental Honors Program
  • Independent studies

Related Centers, Organizations & Co-Curriculars

  • Philosophy club 
  • Phi Sigma Tau
  • Mock Trial team
  • Debate team

Additional Academic Opportunities: Common Minors, Certificates & Second Majors

  • Pre-law Certificate/pre-law advising program
  • Certificate in Politics, Philosophy, and Economics
  • 5th year accelerated master’s degree program options in related disciplines

 

Edman Chapel Clock Tower with Fall Leaves
PHILOSOPHY for Christ & His Kingdom

Faith and Learning at Wheaton

A Wheaton education is built on the foundation of our unique Christ at the Core general education curriculum. As a philosophy major at Wheaton, you’ll join a community of committed Christians who believe that studying philosophy helps us learn to know, love, and serve God better.

More About Christ at the Core

Success After Wheaton What Can You Do With a Philosophy Degree?

With an academically rigorous philosophy degree from Wheaton, you’ll be prepared for a wide range of in-demand careers or ready to pursue graduate school.

Recent philosophy majors found positions such as:

  • Teacher
  • Publisher/Editor
  • Pastor/Priest
  • Creative Director
  • Data Analyst/Engineer

And they’ve continued their education in programs like:

  • Duke Divinity School
  • University of Chicago Philosophy (Ph.D, Philosophy)
  • Yale University (Ph.D, Philosophy)
  • Oxford University (D.Phil, Theology & Religion)
  • Harvard University Law School (J.D.)
  • University of Chicago Law School (J.D.)
Translating Experiences into Career Opportunities

Philosophy Student in Action

“I feel that I’ve been taught to think, write, and speak with clarity and purpose. In their own ways, each professor I’ve taken has done me the service of Christian accountability."

– Christian Rothrock ’22

Serving as a philopshy department teaching assistant and chairing Wheaton's Discipleship Ministries gave Christian Rothrock '22 the skills and leadership experience he needed to launch a career in project management. Today, he's the lead project manager for Partners for Kids at Nationwide Children's Hospital.

Christian, who double-majored in philosophy and economics, is from State College, Pennsylvania.

RESOURCES & LINKS Dig Deeper into Philosophy

If you’re a current student or want to dig deeper in this area of study, here are some additional resources for you to explore.

Department Website

Visit our department website to learn more about our faculty, curriculum, learning opportunities, and more.

Course Requirements

Visit the Wheaton College catalog for specific degree requirements and course descriptions.

Next Steps

Interested in learning about the benefits of a philosophy degree? Request more information about our philosophy major, or start your application today.