Philosophy Major
Philosophy isn't just about seeking answers - it's about learning to ask the right questions. Salve Regina University's philosophy program challenges you to explore the nature of existence, morality and truth, equipping you with intellectual tools that shape your life and career. The critical thinking, ethical reasoning and analytical skills you'll gain are essential for success in a wide range of careers and graduate studies.
Philosophy is something that we usually think of as being very ahistorical and acontextual - which is why we still read Plato and Aristotle millennia later - but there is a historical dimension to philosophy and place matters, so we want to think about what makes American philosophy unique, what makes it different.
Dr. Craig Condella, professor and chair
Think Critically, Engage Deeply
Rooted in both Western and Eastern traditions, our program embraces diverse perspectives while honoring Salve's Catholic heritage. Inspired by Ex Corde Ecclesiae, we foster a love of wisdom and a commitment to thoughtful inquiry.
You'll gain the ability to analyze complex ideas, tackle ethical dilemmas and apply philosophical reasoning to real-world challenges. With a balance of critical thinking, interpretation and creative problem-solving, philosophy at Salve isn't just an academic pursuit - it's a way to engage meaningfully with the world.
What Sets Salve Apart
Salve is ranked among the 390 best colleges by The Princeton Review, and the best regional universities by U.S. News & World Report.
The Salve Compass program runs through all four years, connecting college to career. With a focus on hands-on, real-world experiences, it ensures every student has the skills and knowledge to succeed in the job market.
Find Your Place in Newport
Our philosophy program is enriched by our location in Newport, a city known for its historical, cultural and intellectual roots. From historic landmarks to a thriving intellectual community, the city offers exceptional opportunities for exploration and meaningful dialogue. This backdrop enhances the study of philosophy, encouraging you to connect abstract ideas with real-world perspectives in a place where history and innovation intersect.
Phi Sigma Tau
The international honor society in philosophy recognizes and celebrates the academic excellence of our philosophy students. Through Phi Sigma Tau, students find opportunities for scholarly research, leadership and networking with fellow philosophers across the country. The society hosts discussions, guest lectures and events that encourage deep engagement with philosophical topics while fostering a strong academic community.
Career Paths in Philosophy
Philosophy graduates are highly valued in the workforce for their critical thinking and problem-solving skills, with studies showing they rank among the highest earners in the humanities. Additionally, philosophy majors consistently excel on graduate school admissions tests, making this degree a strong foundation for a wide range of careers and advanced studies.
Our graduates have pursued successful careers in law, teaching, business, counseling, publishing, government and social service.
Positions include:
- Associate professor of neuropsychology, Lesley University
- Ventures and edge technologies lead/senior associate, Booz Allen Hamilton
- Licensed mental health counselor, Integral Psychotherapy
- Head of research and scholarly communication services, University of Massachusetts Medical School
- Associate professor of English, University of Richmond
- Senior portfolio advisor and senior financial advisor, Merrill Lynch
- Mental health associate, UMass Memorial Medical Center
Jane Benz '25
“Philosophy really trains your brain to look for the connective tissue - the threads - for the skeleton of ideas, arguments and theories. It is a beautiful discipline that you are able to bring yourself into. You can philosophize as the unique individual you are but also look outside of yourself and consult in the ideas of thinkers that have come before you. There is something for everyone, and it is where the program really stands out.”
Timothy Jaeger '21
Jaeger graduated from Salve with a double major in philosophy and political science, as well as a minor in economics – and has never been one to shy away from epistemological thought. He was a department award recipient and president of the Philosophy Club, crediting much of his success and knowledge to Dr. Peter Colosi, associate professor in the Department of Philosophy.
Degree Options
Bachelor of Arts in philosophy
Our philosophy program challenges you to explore life's biggest questions. From exploring moral decision-making and personal ethics to studying phenomenology, existentialism and political philosophy, you'll engage with a range of perspectives on ethics, reality and human experience. Whether examining the nature of consciousness or debating justice and society, our program equips you with the intellectual tools to reason effectively and apply philosophical insights to real-world issues - making it an exciting and relevant choice for any curious mind.
Minor in philosophy
A philosophy minor complements a wide range of majors, providing you with ethical reasoning skills that are valuable in any field. Whether paired with business, political science, psychology, the arts or the sciences, philosophy enhances your ability to analyze complex issues, construct strong arguments and approach challenges with a thoughtful, interdisciplinary perspective.
Meet Our Philosophy Faculty
Our program's strength lies in our multifaceted faculty, whose areas of expertise include American philosophy, philosophy of law, continental phenomenology, philosophy of God, analytic philosophy, Arabic philosophy and Chinese philosophy, as well as political philosophy and environmental, business and medical ethics.
