Philosophy, BA

Program Introduction

Stanford's undergraduate program in Philosophy offers students a rigorous education in the history of philosophy and contemporary philosophical debates. The program emphasizes analytical skills, critical thinking, and clear communication while exploring fundamental questions about knowledge, reality, ethics, and human existence. Stanford's philosophy department is distinguished by its faculty's diverse expertise spanning ancient philosophy to cutting-edge work in logic, ethics, metaphysics, epistemology, and philosophy of science. The program provides flexibility for students to pursue their philosophical interests while developing intellectual foundations applicable to numerous career paths including law, medicine, business, and academia. Through small seminars, one-on-one faculty mentorship, and research opportunities, students cultivate sophisticated reasoning abilities and intellectual independence that serve them throughout their lives.