Explore great ideas, challenge points of view and examine life's most intriguing questions by majoring in philosophy.
As a philosophy major at USD, you will develop critical thinking, problem solving, communication and reasoning skills that prepare you to take on the challenges of the world and thrive in your future career. Here you will find innovative course offerings on topics such as friendship, tragedy and money that will enhance your ability to raise critical questions and make logical arguments.
With mentorship from faculty and a sense of community in our small yet vibrant program, you'll find the connections you need to follow your curiosity alongside others who share your passion for philosophy. You'll graduate with a variety of marketable, transferable skills – poised for graduate school, law school or careers ranging from non-profit management to public service.
Our world needs thinkers who are ready to solve the problems of tomorrow. As a philosophy student, you will encounter notable thinkers and varied worldviews while gaining the analytical skills and strong writing and communication abilities that will benefit you throughout your life and career.
As a philosophy major, you'll develop important critical thinking, problem solving and communication skills that will make you more marketable and prepare you for the workforce or for graduate or professional study. Follow your passion for philosophy and explore history's greatest ideas by taking innovative and engaging courses like Ancient Philosophy, Oppression and Freedom or Ethics, Law and Logic.
Broaden your horizons and increase the marketability of your degree by adding a specialization in ethics, law and logic. This option allows philosophy majors, especially those considering careers in law or public service, to be recognized officially for completing a series of classes in ethics, politics and social issues. The innovative curriculum allows you to apply philosophical ideas to the real world, demonstrating the value of critical thinking skills in professional and civic life.
A minor in philosophy will help you develop critical thinking, problem solving and communication skills that will serve you in any career. This program is a great complement to a variety of majors, including political science, legal studies, English and more.
Program Details
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Source: The National Institute of Education
Source: Wall Street Journal
Student clubs and other social activities allow you to continue your engagement outside of the classroom. USD has more than 170 student organizations, including Friends of Wisdom.
The Philosophy Club welcomes all students with an interest in philosophy. The Philosophy Club meetings involve lively discussion of selected topics, current events and other matters of interest. Here you will be immersed into fascinating concepts, have civil debates and learn all things philosophy.
At USD, you'll find countless opportunities to engage with interesting ideas in and beyond the classroom. The philosophy program hosts several events that provide you with the chance to learn from guest experts, including the annual Ethics, Law and Society Speaker Series and an upcoming, multidisciplinary conference on philosophy and money. Through these experiences, you'll hear from leading scholars that travel to USD from around the world.
At the University of South Dakota, our Department of History houses numerous disciplines that exist at the intersection of curiosity, research, writing, storytelling and the human experience. Find the answers to your questions about people, events, institutions and values with the guidance and support of our exceptional faculty.
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SD Residents, SD Advantage* & Child of Alumni
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Out-of-State
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|---|---|---|
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Tuition (30 cr.)
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9432
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12942
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Fees (30 cr.)
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1659
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1659
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Books (estimate)
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1200
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1200
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Housing
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4890
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4890
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Food Service
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4194
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4194
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Total
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* SD Advantage: The in-state rate is available to new undergraduate students who are residents of South Dakota, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas (starting Summer 2024), Minnesota (starting Summer 2024), Missouri (starting Summer 2024), Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Wisconsin, Wyoming and children of alumni of USD.
This is an estimated annual cost. Other factors may change the cost of tuition.
Learn more about tuition and fees for undergraduate students and see how your out-of-pocket costs at USD compare to those at other colleges and universities.
Navigating options for how to pay for college can be challenging, but you are not alone. The Office of Financial Aid will work with you and your family to explore how you can make your college education even more affordable.
USD awards nearly $9.5 million in scholarships each year. View our scholarships to see which ones you may qualify for and how you can apply.
I am beyond grateful for choosing to major in philosophy. Some of my best friends, biggest mentors and irreplaceable skills came out of the department. I would strongly recommend students consider the philosophy program, as it is a great compliment to any major!
Katelyn Steffel Spangrud
B.A. Philosophy, Criminal Justice '15
