Bachelor of Arts
in Philosophy

Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy

Program Overview

Shape the Thinkers of Tomorrow With a Bachelor's In Philosophy

Sharpen your mind, expand your horizons, and deepen your understanding of the world around you.  

At Youngstown State University, our Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy will enhance your skills in communication, reasoning, problem-solving, and creative thinking—all while diving into life’s most profound questions. Gain an appreciation for the history of the discipline and analyze ancient and medieval societies while studying logic and professional ethics.  

Our BA in Philosophy prepares you for a broad spectrum of professional opportunities—from business and law to education, politics, and beyond.  

Choose One of Our Philosophy Minors

Complement nearly any major with the ethical and critical thinking skills needed for professional success. We have minors in: 

  • Philosophy: Gain a broad background in argumentation and logic as you learn more about the most important philosophical themes and traditions of our time. Courses cover critical thinking, human values, professional ethics, and more.  
  • Professional Ethics: Your professional life will be filled with make-or-break decisions. Our Professional Ethics minor will dive into how ethical principles impact actions in the workplace. Courses investigate logic, ancient and modern philosophy, and how technology impacts human values.  

Speak to a Faculty Member
Dr. Alan Tomhave. Ph.D.
Associate Dean, Professor
aetomhave@ysu.edu
330.941.3447

Why Pursue a Bachelor's in Philosophy at YSU?

Dive into the intellectual world of critical thinking and rational inquiry with YSU’s Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy degree. You’ll find several ways to put your learning to work, including: 

  • Student organizations: Gain a greater understanding of the world around you by joining the student-run Philosophy and Religious Studies Club or our nationally recognized Ethics Bowl team. These are great opportunities for Philosophy majors to discuss real-time ethical issues with fellow students—both here at YSU and around the globe.  
  • Internships and research opportunities: Our BA in Philosophy students frequently partner with faculty members on various research initiatives. They also intern with local organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club of Youngstown, the Raymond John Wean Foundation, and Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Youngstown.  
  • Advanced opportunities to understand today’s ethical issues: Through both the Dr. James Dale Ethics Center and the Center for Islamic Studies, our bachelor’s in philosophy students hear from leaders in the field during lectures and seminars, work with local professionals on continuing education, participate in events, and more.  

Philosophy Major: What You'll Study

Start Your BA in Philosophy Journey at YSU

Our Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy degree provides a deep exploration of existence, knowledge, values, reason, and ethics. Philosophy courses range from classical to contemporary, covering topics such as: 

  • Ancient, Medieval, and Modern Philosophy 
  • Ethics and Aesthetics 
  • Logic, Metaphysics, and Epistemology 
  • Philosophy of Law 
  • Philosophy of Science, Religion, and Mind 
  • Social and Political Philosophy 

These diverse subjects comprise the backbone of our bachelor’s in philosophy program and provide you with the foundation for advanced understanding and critical engagement in a global world.  

Embark on a unique intellectual journey filled with discovery, growth, and deep understanding. A philosophy degree from Youngstown State will open up a universe of possibilities in both your personal and professional life.  

Scholarships Available

Each year, thousands of dollars in scholarships are awarded to students enrolled in the Beeghly College of Liberal Arts, Social Sciences, and Education. We offer five scholarships specifically to Philosophy majors, and scholarships come from a variety of sources, vary in amount, and are available to both incoming and current students.