Philosophy Department : University of Rochester

Asking questions, seeking answers
Addressing theoretical and practical issues
Applying philosophy to contemporary concerns
John Komdat receives the 2017 Edward Peck Curtis Award for Excellence in Teaching by a Graduate Student

Majors & Minors

Philosophical issues addressed include both traditional and contemporary topics.

Graduate Studies

Our small, close-knit PhD program facilitates close interaction among faculty and students.

PHL for Pre-Law

Our courses explore philosophical issues that motivate the formulation and application of laws.

Special Colloquium

Gonzalo Rodriguez-Pereyra (Oriel College, Oxford, UK)
June 29

Jannai Shields - Finalist in 2016 3-minute thesis competition

2017 Newsletter

Did you know?

A major in philosophy is also a valuable asset when combined with a major in political science, economics, or natural sciences such as biology, chemistry, geology, physics, and psychology.
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The department’s course offerings provide an excellent foundation for graduate work in law and cognitive science, as well as in philosophy itself.
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The philosophers in our department have a variety of specialties in philosophy and represent diverse philosophical perspectives.
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Faculty Spotlight

Seeking eudaimonia, fulfilling your potential

How do we develop good character? A scholar of Aristotelian ethics, Professor of Philosophy Randall Curren’s research teams him up with psychologists, educators, natural scientists, and others to answer that question. “Capability theory is self-consciously Aristotelian,” says Curren. Read more >

95percent

Ninety-five percent of University of Rochester applicants are accepted into law school. That’s 19 percent higher than the national average.

Berkeley Prize

The Berkeley prize competition is an essay competition open to all philosophy professionals.

Winners receive a cash prize and a copy of the winning essay will be sent to the George Berkeley Library Study Center.

Why PHL?

At Rochester, students can combine philosophy with another major. The writing and analytical skills our students learn supplement their interests in law, history, science, and more, while preparing them for graduate studies and careers.

Student in front of a wall painting of Nelson Mandela and his famous quotes.

Ethics and Values

Mind and Nature

Garden sculpture in St. Petersburg, Russia.

History and Teaching

Want more information about the Department of Philosophy? Contact us.