Utah Valley University

What you'll study

Coursework emphasizes conceptual analysis, critical reading, and structured argument. Typical subject areas include:

• Logic and critical reasoning—formal and informal methods for evaluating arguments.
• Ethics and political philosophy—moral theory, applied ethics, and questions about justice and rights.
• Epistemology and metaphysics—questions about knowledge, reality, mind, and identity.
• History of philosophy—texts and figures from ancient to modern traditions.
• Research and writing—capstone projects or senior seminars that require sustained independent research and presentation.

Entry requirements

Applicants must satisfy the university's undergraduate admission criteria and complete any general education prerequisites. Students typically declare the philosophy major through the normal major declaration process; transfer students should consult academic advisors to map transfer credits and lower-division requirements. Some advanced seminars may expect prerequisites in introductory philosophy or logic.

Career prospects

A philosophy BA prepares graduates for a range of careers that value analytic thinking and communication. Common paths include law school and legal support roles, education, public policy and government, non-profit leadership, consulting, journalism, and roles in business or technology that require critical problem-solving and clear writing. Graduates also pursue graduate study in philosophy, humanities, or interdisciplinary fields.

Scholarships & funding angle

Financial support typically comes from university-wide undergraduate scholarships, departmental awards for humanities students, and external scholarships for students pursuing liberal arts degrees. Prospective students should contact the university's financial aid office and the philosophy department for information on merit scholarships, need-based aid, and funding opportunities related to undergraduate research or conference travel.