What is philosophy?
If you are inquisitive and like to get to the bottom of things, philosophy is your ticket. Philosophy explores enduring questions while cultivating timeless skills. You will learn to question, think and argue rigorously and originally, developing clarity, depth and coherence in writing and speaking.
Philosophy is deeply practical. Employers value the versatility and intellectual acuity of philosophy students, who excel at dealing with complexity and consistently place at the top of graduate admission examinations. At Linfield, you will also find varied opportunities for experiential learning and collaborative work.
Curious whether this program is the right fit?
Share a little about yourself through our information request form to connect with an admission counselor and get answers about the philosophy program.
What You Can Expect
Innovative curriculum
Explore a wide range of constantly refreshed courses shaped by active faculty research and contemporary issues.
Experiential learning
Engage in research, conferences, publications and internships that build flexible thinking and real‑world skills.
Vibrant community
Join a lively department with annual lectures, retreats, discussions and unique traditions like the Longsword Study Group.
Why Study Philosophy at Linfield?
Philosophy at Linfield nurtures your intellectual curiosity while helping you build the skills that shape meaningful lives and careers. Courses are intentionally designed to align with your interests and strengths, ensuring a personalized and rigorous academic experience. Popular classes such as Sport, Philosophy and Society and Social and Political Philosophy regularly fill with long waiting lists, reflecting the program’s campus‑wide appeal.
Majors and minors stand out for their critical thinking, articulate expression and ability to analyze and synthesize complex ideas. Graduates thrive in graduate programs and careers across law, social work, counseling, international studies, administration, publishing and even advanced scientific environments. With close faculty mentorship and a curriculum that blends breadth with depth, Linfield philosophy students are exceptionally well prepared for both professional success and a life of thoughtful engagement.
Accolades & Rankings
Linfield consistently ranks among the top institutions for return on investment, delivering strong value through improved socioeconomic mobility and earning potential.
#1 Liberal Arts College in Oregon for Earning Performance
- Washington Monthly
#1 Liberal Arts College in Oregon for Social Mobility
- U.S. News and World Report
#1 Best Value College in Oregon
- Niche
What financial assistance is available?
Financing your college education can feel like a lot to manage, but °ÅÀÖÊÓƵ is here to help make the process clearer and more manageable. Linfield’s Financial Aid Office offers personalized guidance from experienced counselors who can help you understand your options, plan ahead, navigate the and answer any questions along the way.
You can also plan ahead by estimating your cost of attendance using Linfield’s Cost Calculator.
Scholarships
°ÅÀÖÊÓƵ offers a variety of scholarship opportunities to help reduce the cost of college. When you apply for admission, you’ll automatically be considered for many Linfield scholarships. Additional scholarships are available based on academic interests, achievements, life experiences and personal background.
Learn more about available scholarships on Linfield’s Scholarships page.
Philosophy Career Outlook
A philosophy degree can open doors for your career
Through 2034, philosophy-related occupations are expected to grow by 49% each year*. These advanced positions also bring a higher earning potential. In 2023, the median annual wage for these positions was $65,000, exceeding the national average of $49,000. While your income heavily depends on where you live, your level of education and the depth of your experience, enriching your expertise can help support your career growth and financial stability.
*
You can pursue work in fields such as:
- management
- education
- law
- community/social services
Ready to take the next step?
Philosophy Admission
Begin your journey to studying at °ÅÀÖÊÓƵ. Start your application.
Questions about the program?
Reach out our department chair and they will be happy to answer your questions.