Department of Philosophy

Welcome to the Department of Philosophy! Wichita State University has a vibrant, challenging philosophy program with faculty who teach and research a wide range of philosophical concerns.

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About Philosophy

A bachelor's degree in Philosophy equips you with a versatile skill set that is highly sought after in today's job market. Develop critical reasoning, analytical prowess, effective communication and ethical awareness – qualities that are invaluable in any career path.

What is Philosophy anyway?

Concentrations

Choose from four concentrations to customize your studies to your intellectual interests and goals.

Analytic Reasoning

Improve your critical thinking, logical reasoning, textual analysis, analytical writing, communication and research skills.

Ethics

Notice and prevent ethical problems in the real world, as well as mitigate and manage existing issues. You'll develop your skills in situational awareness, conceptual analysis, ethical evaluation and problem solving.

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Pre-Law

Gain a rich theoretical context for understanding the aims and methods of law, normative systems, and action guidance, as well as written and verbal practice developing argumentation and advocacy skills.

World Philosophy

Understand the foundations of diverse cultures and worldviews found in our increasingly integrated global society. You'll develop your cultural awareness, conceptual sophistication, and evaluative and problem-solving skills.

Philosophy Scholarships

Current WSU students interested in any Fairmount College scholarship, including philosophy, can submit an application through ScholarshipUniverse.

Apply for Philosophy scholarships

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Spotlight on Inclusive Excellence and Engagement

Dive into the rich tapestry of human thought with a diverse selection of courses that explore the metaphysics, epistemology and ethical systems developed around the world.

Some of our courses like PHIL 228 Introduction to Japanese Philosophy and PHIL 350 Ancient Chinese Philosophy focus on philosophy from a particular part of the world, or from a particular culture. Many of our courses include cross-cultural or global content. For example this Fall, PHIL 360 Ethical Theory will include African and Native American ethics content as well as Western theories like utilitarianism and deontology. Yet other courses delve into topics of critical concern for us all, like PHIL 354 Philosophy of Sex and Love or PHIL 355 Minds and Machines. Join us to get more our of your life and career.

Explore philosophy courses

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Student Testimonials

The benefits of philosophy are inexhaustive, which include greater analytical thinking, critical thinking and writing, as well as gaining the ability to take on and have a better appreciation of difficult questions regarding politics, economics, ethics and religion. For myself, philosophy has proven to be beneficial in furthering my education, as it has formulated a foundation for obtaining an MBA. I will forever be indebted to the gifts and values that come from this field, as it is not just a major but a skill that one acquires.

Matthew C. Rose
Philosophy Alumni, Class of 2018

See what Philosophy alumni are saying

Historic Fiske Hall

Dedicated in 1906, Fiske Hall is the oldest surviving building on Wichita State's campus and is home to the Department of Philosophy. Today, Fiske has been updated to include modern amenities to accommodate students, faculty and staff.

Learn more about our facilities

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More about Philosophy

Philosophy Events Faculty and Staff Logic Tutoring Clinic Philosophy Library Guide APA Guide to Graduate Programs in Philosophy

Philosophy News

All department news

Dr. Hershfield Retires, Fall 2024

After a long career in the WSU Department of Philosophy, Dr. Jeffrey Hershfield is retiring at the end of the Fall 2024 semester. Recipient of the John R. Barrier Distinguished Teaching Award in Humanities and Social Sciences, he has most recently served as the Director of the Legal Education Accelerated Degree (LEAD) program, the Director of the MA in Liberal Arts (MALS) program, and as the Pre-Law Advisor for Philosophy. Please join us in wishing Dr. Hershfield all the best in his retirement.

Philosophy