Philosophy B.S. / B.A. / Minor
Ask life's biggest questions, and learn to reason, argue, and think with clarity and purpose.
As a philosophy major at Manhattan University, you engage the most significant thinkers in history while sharpening the logic, ethics, and argumentation skills that define a liberal arts education. Guided by published faculty in small, discussion-driven classes, you graduate ready for law, business, public service, and graduate study, with some of the strongest outcomes of any humanities discipline.
This program is part of Religion and Philosophy
The Manhattan Advantage
Why Study Philosophy at Manhattan University?
At Manhattan University, philosophy students learn to think clearly, write persuasively, and reason through the questions that matter most, skills that translate into success across law, business, public service, and graduate study. Through close mentorship from published faculty, funded summer research, and applied opportunities near New York City, you graduate prepared not just to understand ideas, but to use them to lead a life of purpose and impact.
Degree Program Options
Choose Your Degree Path
Philosophy at Manhattan University is offered as a Bachelor of Arts and as a minor, with cross-listed courses that make it easy to add philosophy to another major and accelerated pathways for students continuing into law.
Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy
The B.A. requires 30 credits, including Ethics, Introduction to Logic, Ancient Greek Philosophy, and Modern Philosophy, a senior philosophy seminar, and five philosophy electives. Students shape the major around their interests, from ethics and political philosophy to the history of ideas.
Minor in Philosophy
A 15-credit sequence open to students in all schools: Ancient Greek Philosophy, three philosophy electives, and one of Ethics, Ethics Bowl Debate I, Introduction to Logic, or Critical Thinking. It complements nearly any major and supports pre-law and pre-med students.
Accelerated Pathway to Law
Qualified majors can pursue an accelerated law degree through the 3-3 BA/JD partnership with St. John's University School of Law.
Academics
Curriculum & Courses
The Philosophy major requires 30 credits, including foundational courses in ethics, logic, ancient Greek philosophy, and modern philosophy, capped by a senior philosophy seminar. Explore representative courses below.
To view the full curriculum, please visit Manhattan University's academic catalog.
- Africana Philosophy
- American Philosophy
- Ancient Greek Philosophy
- Critical Thinking
- Environmental Ethics
- Ethics
- Ethics Bowl Debate I
- Existentialism
- Faith and Reason
- Introduction to Logic
- Marx and Marxism
- Modern Philosophy
- Philosophy of Law
- Philosophy of Religion
- Political Philosophy
- Philosophy Seminar
- Philosophers on Race, Class, and Gender
- Twentieth Century Philosophy
Philosophy Minor:
A 15-credit sequence consisting of Ancient Greek Philosophy, three philosophy electives, and one of Ethics, Ethics Bowl Debate I, Introduction to Logic, or Critical Thinking. The minor is open to students in all schools.
Why Study in New York City
New York City is a global crossroads of ideas, institutions, and the ethical questions that shape public life, an ideal place to study philosophy. Manhattan University philosophy students put their learning into practice through internships and research projects with local and global organizations, including the New York Catholic Worker, advocacy groups at the United Nations, and Pax Christi, the international peace network. Our faculty draw on deep professional networks to connect students with opportunities in nonprofits, law, public service, and faith-based social justice work. This real-world experience near the heart of New York City helps you build the skills, connections, and confidence to launch a career or pursue advanced study.
Learn From Leaders in the Field
Manhattan University's philosophy faculty are published scholars and widely cited public voices whose work spans ethics, the history of philosophy, political and social thought, and philosophy of art and religion. They have authored books with leading academic presses and earned national fellowships, and they bring that scholarship into small classes where they know you by name and mentor you toward graduate school, law school, and meaningful careers.
About
The Kakos School of Arts and Sciences
The Kakos School of Arts and Sciences is the largest of Manhattan University's three schools, offering 33 undergraduate majors, six graduate programs, and six combined degrees across the humanities, natural and social sciences, and professional fields. Grounded in the University's Lasallian Catholic mission and located near the heart of New York City, the School pairs rigorous academics with small classes, close faculty mentorship, and real-world experience throughout the five boroughs and beyond. That foundation delivers: Manhattan University ranks in the top 3% nationally for salary impact (Wall Street Journal, 2026), a measure of how strongly a degree here translates into graduates' career earnings.
Career Outcomes
Potential Careers
A philosophy degree builds the reasoning, ethical, and communication skills that prepare graduates for careers across law, business, education, public service, and the nonprofit sector, as well as for advanced study in many fields. Manhattan University philosophy majors pursue a wide range of paths.
- Editor
- Human Resources Specialist
- Lawyer
- Management Analyst
- Mediator
- Writer
- Nonprofit Manager
- Postsecondary Professor
- Public Relations Specialist
- Social and Community Service Manager
- High School Teacher
- Policy Analyst
Program Costs & Financial Aid
Manhattan University is committed to making a high-quality, career-focused education accessible and affordable. Through a combination of competitive tuition, robust financial aid, and our Jasper Guarantee, students and families can plan their education with confidence. The Jasper Guarantee locks your tuition rate for all four years—ensuring financial stability and eliminating unexpected increases as you work toward your degree.
More than 90% of Manhattan University students receive some form of financial assistance, including merit scholarships, grants, and need-based aid, significantly reducing the overall cost of attendance.
- View Tuition & Fees
- Explore Financial Aid
- Learn More About Scholarships
- Learn About the Jasper Guarantee
A Manhattan University education is an investment in your future, and we are dedicated to helping you access the resources that make it possible.
A Smarter Investment in Your Future
Jasper Guarantee
At Manhattan University, every undergraduate student is protected by the Jasper Guarantee, which locks your tuition rate for all four years, ensuring clarity, stability, and peace of mind as you plan your education. This promise reflects our commitment to affordability and to supporting students and families throughout their academic journey.
Admissions Information
Start Your Journey in Philosophy
Applying to Manhattan University is designed to be clear and accessible. Review the requirements and key deadlines below to take the next step toward a future in data-driven business.
Requirements:
- Application & transcript
- SAT/ACT optional
- Personal statement
- Letter(s) of recommendation
Deadlines:
- Early Action: November 15
- Regular Decision: February 1
Admission and Application Process
International Students:
Support available for visas, documentation, and English-language assessments.
Prepare for the Real World
At Manhattan University, your education is built around who you are and where you want to go. Whether you’re ready to apply or just starting to explore, take the next step when you’re ready — we’re here to help.