Bachelor's Degree in Philosophy
OVERVIEW
Who is this program for?
The bachelor's degree program in Philosophy is perfect for students who enjoy examining fundamental questions about knowledge, ethics, and the nature of reality. Graduates develop strong skills in critical thinking, logical reasoning, and persuasive writing, preparing them for careers in law, public policy, education, and ethics consulting, where analytical expertise is highly valued.
Program Overview
Philosophy encourages critical and systematic inquiry into fundamental questions of right and wrong, truth and falsehood, the meaning of life, and the nature of reality, knowledge, and society. Philosophy prepares you to make important decisions and solve problems by better handling uncertainty and vagueness, verifying claims, gauging your audience, and finding the underlying logic governing your situation, so that you can effectively weigh potential courses of action. Philosophy trains students in higher-level thinking, able to envision better starting points and reframe questions and get better answers. When leadership of ideas is needed, you will have something to offer.
Most Philosophy majors do not enter college with a declared major of Philosophy because they only learn about the discipline after taking college coursework. That's OK! We can tailor your curriculum to best meet your educational needs. Please reach out to the Director of Undergraduate Studies to discuss your options.
Related Careers
- Lawyer
- Banker
- Public Relations Director
- Publisher
- Journalist
- Retail Management
- Librarian
- Counselor
- Marketing
- Consulting
- Research
- Accountant
- Social Worker
- Professor
- Self-Employed
- Labor Relations
- Foreign Service Officer
- Public Policy
- Non-Profit Work
- Minister
- Teacher
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What You'll Learn
The bachelor's degree in Philosophy provides a broad liberal arts foundation, ideal for students interested in exploring philosophy alongside other humanities disciplines. It provides a strong foundation for students who aspire to go to law school. Students engage deeply with topics such as logic, ethics, metaphysics, and the history of philosophy, while honing their skills in critical thinking, argumentation, and clear communication. Expand the menu below to view a sample curriculum plan.
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Transfer in using our KCTCS Pathway
This program has a degree pathway from KCTCS, allowing students a seamless transfer process to obtain their bachelor's degree from the University of Kentucky.
View Pathways
Get a Head Start with an
Accelerated Pathway
This program is part of the Accelerated Master's Pathways program. If you plan to obtain a related master's degree, this program can save you time and money with dual credit hours when you sign up.
Admission Requirements
- Official High School Transcript with Pre-College Curriculum: View transcript requirements on the Undergraduate Admission webpage.
- Test Scores (optional): ACT or SAT scores can be submitted but are not required for university admission.
Any "Program Specific Requirements" that display below are specific to the program and will be required for admission to the program.
Application Requirements
Completed applications include an official high school transcript, application fee ($50 domestic/$60 international) and optional official ACT/SAT score (the University of Kentucky is test-optional for admission and scholarships through the 2028-29 academic year).
Application Deadlines
Freshman
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Early Action
- 12/01/2025 Apply early to be considered for Lewis Honors College, scholarships, or on-campus living.
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Regular Decision
- 02/15/2026
Transfer
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Fall Scholarship
- 06/15/2025 Apply early to be considered for scholarships.
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Fall
- 08/01/2025
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Spring
- 11/15/2025
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Summer
- 04/15/2025
Explore Financial Aid Options
Undergraduate degree-seeking students have access to a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans, designed to make education more affordable.
Expand Your Learning
All students are welcome to join the Philosophy Club! Please join us at weekly meetings for lively conversations and fruitful encounters.
Get Involved!
Students who get involved in activities outside of the classroom tend to do better academically and develop meaningful relationships with others at UK. Our network of student organizations and activities has something for everyone, from academic to professional to fun!
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Complete the form to get the latest updates on this program, including special events and application deadlines.
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At the University of Kentucky, we provide personalized support, innovative resources, and countless opportunities to help you turn your aspirations into achievements.
