Philosophy offers you the opportunity to investigate deep and difficult questions about human existence, morality, truth and knowledge. Our major is comprehensive and challenging — incorporating logic, ethics, the history of philosophy and a generous number of electives that allow you to pursue your own particular interests.
Through the 3+3 J.D. Program, you can earn your Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Juris Doctor in a total of six years.
Driven, high-achieving philosophy majors are now eligible to matriculate directly into the University of Dayton School of Law. Undergraduates must participate in the Core Program and declare a philosophy major by the end of the fall semester of their second year.
The Baker Colloquium in Philosophy is a biennial conference on the UD campus that brings philosophers from across the nation and around the world to discuss a given issue or topic.
Our curriculum's strong emphasis on ethics and social justice embodies the Marianist values of service, justice and peace.
Ready to take the next step? Explore admission options or schedule an academic visit to learn more about philosophy at UD.
The objective of the philosophy major program is to provide students with the opportunity to understand contemporary philosophy in view of the history of philosophy. Students majoring in philosophy must successfully complete a minimum of 30 semester hours. The philosophy major program is also offered in India in conjunction with the Marianists. Consult the department chairperson for further information.
This is a sample plan of study for students starting at UD in the 2025-26 academic year. This is a recommended course sequence, but your schedule may vary depending on previously earned college credits, course availability, advisor recommendations, and your personal goals and interests. Please contact your holistic advisor if you have any questions.
At the University of Dayton, our flexible undergraduate curriculum, known as the Common Academic Program (CAP), encourages you to integrate knowledge — and put it to use.
Wondering how college credits you've already earned (e.g., transfer credit, CCP, AP/IB/CLEP exams) will apply to your undergraduate degree? Use our online Transfer Credit Evaluation tool to find out.
Visit the Academic Catalog for official major requirements, prerequisite(s), course descriptions and more.
For undergraduate students pursuing any Bachelor of Arts degree, the College of Arts and Sciences and the School of Law offers a 3+3 J.D. program, allowing students to complete their Bachelor's Degree and Juris Doctor in a total of 6 years.
Please consult with your holistic advisor for eligibility and timeline as you are scheduling your third-semester coursework.
This is a sample plan of study for students starting at UD in the 2025-26 academic year. This is a recommended course sequence, but your schedule may vary depending on previously earned college credits, course availability, advisor recommendations, and your personal goals and interests. Please contact your holistic advisor if you have any questions.
* L2 is a language other than English.
At the University of Dayton, our flexible undergraduate curriculum, known as the Common Academic Program (CAP), encourages you to integrate knowledge — and put it to use.
Wondering how college credits you've already earned (e.g., transfer credit, CCP, AP/IB/CLEP exams) will apply to your undergraduate degree? Use our online Transfer Credit Evaluation tool to find out.
Visit the Academic Catalog for official major requirements, prerequisite(s), course descriptions and more. And find additional information, including next steps, on the 3+3 J.D. page.
The University of Dayton encourages students to understand the connected nature of knowledge by developing skills in making connections across academic disciplines. Therefore, philosophy students are encouraged to consider a second major.
At the University of Dayton, applying is free and test scores are optional. When you apply, you'll automatically be considered for a merit scholarship.
Learn about our admission process, then apply using UD's application or the Common App.
Rooted in our Catholic, Marianist traditions, the University of Dayton is dedicated to being transparent and ensuring student success. And with high graduation and success rates, UD is an excellent value.
To help you cover your costs, a variety of scholarships, grants, loans and part-time work study are available. The University also accepts transfer credits and credit by exam for undergraduates, giving you more flexibility to add a double major or minor or participate in a transformational experience like study abroad or co-op.
Eleanor Yates-McEwan decided to major in philosophy at the University of Dayton because it teaches students how to think critically, analyze information and problem-solve. "Those are skills that are essential to be an attorney."
Get more than your foot in the door — get ready for success. At our College of Arts and Sciences, you will have the opportunity to combine the classroom and business world together in a way that allows you to further sharpen your skills. It’s a key reason why employers love hiring our students — they can hit the ground running.
Let’s explore the possibilities. Now you know what we’re about: community, personal attention, hands-on learning, integrity and global thinking. Take the next step and connect with us today.
Our faculty and staff are here to support you throughout your philosophy journey at UD.