Why study Philosophy at CIU?
Philosophy literally means “the love of wisdom.” To be a “philosopher,” then, means to be a person who passionately pursues wisdom, and all that wisdom requires: knowledge, understanding, skill in critical thinking and constructive reasoning.
Being a Christian philosopher, however, means something more: cultivating the knowledge and love of Christ who is the wisdom of God (1 Corinthians 1:24), learning to love God with all of your mind as well as your heart and soul, and to use your intellectual gifts in loving service of your neighbors (Matthew 22:37).
As a Philosophy major, you will explore the ideas that have shaped our world, learn to analyze arguments, and learn to think, read, and write critically. You will develop a solid biblical worldview, and cultivate a lifelong ability to critically compare ideas and beliefs.
Your Future
The Philosophy major will prepare you to be a life-long learner and lover of wisdom; it is not merely a stepping-stone to a career. Nevertheless, a philosophy degree can be an important step toward a variety of exciting and intellectually challenging careers.
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Education: Philosophy majors may go on to teach in a variety of educational environments, from elementary to the university level. The major is excellent preparation for graduate work in education.
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Theology and Ministry: The Philosophy degree is excellent preparation for pursing a graduate degree in theology. Some students, especially those who have double-majored in Bible and Philosophy, have stepped directly into church ministry careers.
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Law: The Philosophy major can be easily be used as a pre-law major. Philosophy majors typically do well on the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT).
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Graduate School: The philosophy degree is excellent preparation for entering graduate programs in a wide variety of areas, such as Business, Economics, Education, Political Science, Psychology, English/Literature, Theology, and, of course, Philosophy.
“The way I think about almost everything has changed entirely, and for the better, because of my Philosophy degree. By nature, this degree teaches one to think well; given the complexity of our world, I have come to see thinking well as a peaceful blessing, if not necessary to my life as a believer…. I highly recommend pairing the Bible major with a degree in Philosophy.”
-Austin Green (class of ‘18), pursuing a Master's Degree in Philosophy
“The Philosophy major at CIU challenged me intellectually and personally. I have used my major every day since I’ve graduated from CIU, specifically, in the way that I think and approach problems. I was taught to challenge myself, to think critically about what I believe, and to be confident in my own abilities.”
-Ashton Clemmons (class of ‘18), managing a non-profit
Career and Ministry Opportunities
The Philosophy major provides a foundation for careers in a broad range of professional disciplines, including:
- the legal profession
- business management
- information technology
- government service
- public policy analysis and development
- teaching at the primary, secondary, and university levels
- medicine
- social work
- ministry
Review the catalog and course requirements.
Admissions Requirements
1. Complete the online application and pay the $25 application fee
2. Review and complete admissions requirements
