Philosophy

Earn a Philosophy Degree

Apply critical thinking skills to a variety of areas relating to human existence

Students studying philosophy at our private Catholic college learn to question critically, argue rigorously, and think synthetically while engaging fundamental questions about reality, God, the limits of knowledge, and the meaning of human life. Philosophy students can expect to participate in seminars that include discussion, back and forth exchange, and strives toward drawing conclusions.

While the skills learned in philosophy can be applied to many areas of life, our philosophy graduates often find career success in the fields of law, information and technology, and postgraduate teaching and research. Students can specialize interests with the chance of receiving research grants from the Gerber Institute for Catholic Studies, making our philosophy program a great opportunity.

About Our Faculty

Philosophy Department

Our faculty and staff have the knowledge and experience to help you prepare for a career in philosophy. If you need clarification on a class assignment or advice on how to approach your future, you can feel confident that our faculty is available and ready to help.

Job Outlook

While pursuing a degree in philosophy, you can expect a promising future. Philosophy and religion teaching fields are projected to grow 13% between 2014 and 2022. Our students are prepared to meet the expected demand for philosophers.

Careers

A degree in philosophy will give you the opportunity to work in a variety of fields and specialties related to philosophy. Here are some examples of potential careers and median salaries:

  • Associate Professor ($91,000 a year)
  • Attorney ($78,000 a year)
  • Information Technology Consultant ($75,000 a year)
  • Postdoctoral Research Associate ($44,000 a year)

Internships

Our philosophy students have the opportunity to gain real-world experience by interning in the Wichita community. This allows you to experience real-world application of philosophy in law, communication, technology settings and more.

Get Involved on Campus

One of the best ways to find success during your college career is to get involved in campus clubs and organizations. Within our philosophy program, our students can join Jets for Life, Justice League, STEM (Science Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) Club, and Student Government Association. These organizations allow for personal growth, networking, and future career success.

Program Outcomes

Success Story — Rebekah Baldridge, Class of 2013

Alumna Rebekah Baldridge had the opportunity to combine her passions for English and philosophy by double majoring at Newman University. In her junior year, Rebekah wrote a story for one of her classes that not only won over her professors, but that also won the prestigious Dell Award for undergraduate excellence in science fiction and fantasy writing. As the Dell Award winner, Rebekah won not only $500 but also had the opportunity to attend the 33rd International Conference of the Fantastic in the Arts (ICFA) in Orlando and see her story published in Asimov’s Science Fiction Magazine. “I knew in my gut that it would win. Not that it might win,” said Rebekah’s professor, Dr. Bryan Dietrich.

"Taking philosophy classes was one of the most important aspects to my college career. Through them, I was able to develop more strongly my own ethical perspective, my own system of beliefs. Like any other core class, the purpose is to educate the student in a way that he or she can apply the lessons learned in real life."

Barbara Nguyen, CLASS OF 2010

"I’ve gained a deeper appreciation of my faith and the ability to express that to others."

Jennifer Mai, CLASS OF 2016