Department of Philosophy and Religion
Human judgment for an automated world
What can we know? How should we live? What makes a society just?
In the Department of Philosophy and Religion, students explore questions that have shaped human life across cultures and apply their knowledge and skills to the complex questions facing us today.
At Christopher Newport, philosophy majors learn to do something increasingly valuable: think carefully about complex questions that do not have simple, automated answers. As artificial intelligence transforms the workplace, employers need people with the authentic intelligence to reason critically, communicate clearly, engage thoughtfully with different perspectives, and make sound ethical judgments.
Because philosophy develops broadly applicable skills rather than preparing students for a single occupation, our graduates pursue careers and advanced study in law, government, business, technology, education, nonprofit organizations, ministry, and public service. Nationally, philosophy majors consistently rank among the highest-scoring majors on standardized tests such as the LSAT, GRE, and MCAT.
Our graduates’ success reflects the value of these skills. On average since 2021, 94% of CNU Philosophy graduates were employed, pursuing further education, or participating in military or service programs within approximately six months of graduation.
Students may pursue the philosophy major without a concentration or earn the BA in Philosophy with a concentration in Philosophy of Law, Pre-Seminary Studies, or Studies in Religion. They may also add a minor in Bioethics, Judeo-Christian Studies, or Philosophy of Law, or complete the Certificate in Professional Ethics.
Students join a close-knit intellectual community in which faculty know them personally and conversations continue beyond the classroom through Tuesday Tea, Philosophy Café, undergraduate research, study abroad, internships, and student organizations.
A degree in philosophy prepares students for meaningful work and a changing world.
