The Department of Philosophy at Washington University pursues answers to some of life’s most essential questions and aims to provide students with critical skills for a productive and creative life. The department is renowned for philosophy faculty who are dedicated teachers as well as internationally recognized authors and researchers in their fields, publishing hundreds of journal articles and dozens of books.

The department currently offers a philosophy major as well as three major specializations: philosophy research, law and policy, and philosophy of science. Undergraduates can also minor in philosophy or philosophy of science. The department houses two doctoral programs in philosophy and philosophy-neuroscience-psychology.

Students often participate in the philosophical societies recognized by the department. Phi Sigma Tau is the International Honor Society in Philosophy. Founded in 1930, the society has a network of over 140 chapters throughout the United States and Canada. Phi Sigma Tau publishes a journal, Dialogue, containing student essays in all areas of contemporary philosophical research. Philosophia is a society that promotes thoughtful discussion and debate. Philosophy majors run the society, but non-majors are very welcome to participate.