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?

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Philosophy Summer Camp

The WSU Philosophy Department will host its inaugural, two-day Philosophy Summer Camp Aug. 5 - 6, 2024. This day camp for high school juniors and seniors will feature activity-centered sessions led by members of the Philosophy Department, spanning a variety of exciting topics.

Students who attend will enhance their reasoning skills, discover how philosophical ideas can help us solve problems in the real world, become aware of how studying philosophy can improve career prospects, and become better prepared for college.

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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.

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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

In Memoriam: Dr. Jay Mandt

Jay (Almer) Mandt, philosophy Professor Emeritus, passed away on June 20, 2024. Services are being provided by Downing and Lahey.

david soles

Emeritus Professors David Soles and Deborah Soles to present colloquium "Considerations on Loyalty"

Please join us on Thursday, September 7th, when Emeritus Professors David Soles and Deborah Soles will deliver a talk entitled "Considerations on Loyalty." The talk will begin at 3:30pm in RSC 301 (Gridley Room).

philosophy news

Prof. John Symons (KU) to speak on "How will AI Change Science?"

The WSU Philosophy Department will host Prof. Symons on December 7, 5:00-6:30pm, in RSC 261. The talk is free and open to the public.

Dr. Hepburn wins the Barrier Award for Excellence in Teaching!

Please join me in congratulating our own Brian Hepburn for winning this year's John R. Barrier Distinguished Teaching Award in Humanities and Social Sciences. Well done, Brian! Among his many accomplishments, Dr. Hepburn has succeeded in impressing one of his students as a "beast", in the best possible way. To see the whole Commencement ceremony and Dr. Hepburn's spotlight in it, visit https://www.youtube.com/live/PK3JFwGOkvQ?si=EdTXeC1LW2qFs_Wu.