DEPARTMENT OF
Philosophy explores fundamental questions about human life and applies its methods across disciplines. It seeks to understand core truths, examine principles and conduct, and establish standards for evaluating ideas and evidence. Through philosophical study, students develop critical thinking skills, learn to approach complex issues from multiple perspectives, and gain a deeper understanding of diverse human experiences.
Program Offerings
A strong sense of community, personalized faculty mentorship, and flexible academic options are just a few reasons students choose to study philosophy at Hofstra—often alongside other disciplines.
Hofstra offers a BA or BS in Philosophy, a BA in Pre-Health with a concentration in Philosophy, and minors in Ethics, Philosophy; Philosophy of Law; Philosophy, Society and Business; and Cognitive Science, Data Analysis, and Scientific Reasoning.
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The Student Experience
Philosophy at Hofstra offers a collegial, close-knit, and intellectually engaging environment. Students can participate in regular events such as guest lectures, topic discussions, film screenings, informal gatherings, and an annual conference where they present their own work. The department also supports an active Philosophy Club and a chapter of the Phi Sigma Tau honor society.
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Meet Your Professors
Hofstra’s philosophy faculty are active scholars with expertise in areas such as environmental ethics, animal studies, feminism, scientific reasoning and data analysis, and the philosophy of law, religion, and metaphysics.
In the classroom, students explore foundational questions about truth, existence, justice, goodness, beauty, and knowledge. Through courses spanning ancient, modern, and contemporary philosophy, you will develop the skills to think critically, solve complex problems, and make sense of an ever-changing world.
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Did You Know?
- Philosophy majors consistently perform well on graduate and professional exams, including the LSAT, GRE, GMAT, and MCAT. By strengthening critical thinking, analysis, and communication skills, the study of philosophy provides a strong foundation for careers in law, medicine, business, and beyond.
- Hofstra philosophy graduates pursue a wide range of paths, becoming leaders in fields such as business, government, law, health care, and the arts.
- Many notable figures have studied philosophy, including U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, Supreme Court Justice David Souter, entrepreneur Peter Thiel, journalist Glenn Greenwald, former NBA coach Phil Jackson, actors Harrison Ford and Susan Sarandon, filmmaker Ethan Coen, and comedians Stephen Colbert, Ricky Gervais, and Jimmy Kimmel.
Career Potential
A major in philosophy signals to employers strong critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and communication skills, along with the ability to research, evaluate complex ideas, and engage thoughtfully in discussion.
A Hofstra philosophy degree prepares students for a wide range of career paths. Recent alumni have pursued opportunities with organizations such as JPMorgan Chase & Co., the U.S. House of Representatives, Northwell Health, the U.S. Army, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of New York, and others.
Philosophy majors consistently perform well on graduate and professional exams, including the GRE, LSAT, MCAT, and GMAT. Hofstra graduates who continue their studies have enrolled in respected institutions such as King’s College London, the New School, Villanova University, the University of Connecticut, and Georgia State University.
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Honors Thesis
The Philosophy Department encourages majors with a minimum overall GPA of 3.4 and a 3.5 GPA in philosophy courses to consider pursuing Departmental Honors by completing an honors thesis. Students should complete at least 15 semester hours in philosophy—18 semester hours are strongly recommended—before beginning the thesis.
Learn MoreInternships
Internships offer valuable, real-world experience and help students refine their professional goals. Within the Department of Philosophy and the Peter S. Kalikow School of Government, Public Policy and International Affairs, many students incorporate internships into their academic experience—often completing more than one.
For more information, contact the Hofstra Career Center at 516-463-6060 or visit the website.
Outside the Classroom
Our colloquium series features regional and international speakers who explore topics such as how biology influences politics, the nature of evil, and the value of humanism.
Events like “Ask a Philosopher,” “Reasoning Evening,” and “Philosophy in Film” offer informal opportunities for students and faculty to engage in discussion and exchange ideas.
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Links and Resources
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From policymaking to international relations, Hofstra equips you with the expertise and hands-on experience to make a difference. Take the next step toward your future.