Philosophy

Why Major in Philosophy?

I've been asking successful business graduates from Siena for a long time "What course at Siena had the most impact on your success?” In the beginning I anticipated they’d point to this or that upper level business course, but the answer I heard most frequently was “Philosophy”.

James R. Nolan, Dean, School of Business, Siena College

MAJORING IN PHILOSOPHY AT SIENA IS FOR PEOPLE WHO WANT:

to understand for themselves important questions about right and wrong, just societies, the nature the mind, and the meaning God;
the ability to think clearly and to express themselves effectively in speaking and writing;
a departmental faculty dedicated to working with their students in a major that allows great freedom in the choice of electives;
a proven springboard to professional careers.

THE STUDY OF PHILOSOPHY IS INTRINSICALLY REWARDING

The questions and materials of philosophy are drawn from every aspect of our lives and experience - ranging from questions of ultimate meaning to practical questions of how to make an effective argument. Study in philosophy engages students in reflective and rational conversation on fundamental questions while drawing on the rich history of philosophical theory that supports contemporary ways of thinking. Studying philosophy not only cultivates habits of good reasoning but also feeds the appetite for self-expression, for exchange and debate of ideas, for resolving problems, and for lifelong learning.

STUDYING PHILOSOPHY DEVELOPS USEFUL INTELLECTUAL HABITS

Philosophical inquiry develops intellectual capabilities; enhances analytical reasoning, sharpens critical and interpretive abilities, and hones communication skills. These habits are necessary in business, public service, the media, law, and medicine. Philosophy thus prepares articulate, adaptable graduates who can compete successfully in today's work place. Indeed, studies tracking test performances by majors have shown that students who major in fields characterized by formal thought, structural relationships, and logical reasoning consistently outperform students in other majors. On the LSAT (for law school), and the GMAT (for business school), philosophy majors scored better than students from any other humanities and business field.

PHILOSOPHY LEADS TO A DIVERSITY OF PROFESSIONS

We encourage students to major in the liberal arts as a strategy for succeeding in a highly competitive job market. Courses such as Philosophy of Law, Logic, and Ethics serve as excellent preparation for law school. Students can also design their own program, combining Philosophy, for example, with an International Business Certificate. The Philosophy minor is another option. A minor allows students in business, science, and humanities to enhance their major field of study with a coordinated body of Philosophy courses. The interconnections between Philosophy and various careers are evident in the department's participation in the College's Peace Studies Program, Environmental Studies Certificate, as well as in particular offerings such as the Philosophy of Science and Philosophy of Art.

PHILOSOPHY FACULTY AND STUDENTS WORK WELL TOGETHER

We are proud of the department's casual and cooperative atmosphere. Upper level classes are small, typically 15 students in a class. Students are mentored both by individual professors and by the departmental advisor. Philosophy majors have maximum freedom to select electives. As a result, students are able to pair Philosophical study with their other interests. The Philosophy Club is very active with films, discussions of important contemporary issues, career preparation, speakers and social events. Siena is also affiliated with Phi Sigma Tau, the National Honor Society in Philosophy.