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Program at a Glance

Program
Bachelor
College(s)
College of Arts and Humanities
Department(s)
Philosophy
U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges - Most Innovative 2026

Philosophy is one of the most versatile and intellectually rewarding majors you can choose. It teaches you how to think critically, reason logically, and communicate effectively. These skills are essential for success in any profession and are highly valued by employers and graduate schools. UCF’s philosophy program combines intellectual depth with practical outcomes, preparing you for success in graduate school and a wide range of careers.

Philosophy is the study of life’s most fundamental questions: What is real? How do we know what we know? What is the good life? At UCF, these questions and others are explored through metaphysics, epistemology, logic, ethics, political philosophy, philosophy of mind, and philosophy of technology. Our students also engage with timely issues such as environmental ethics, ethics in science and technology, and cognitive science. The program centers on the principles of knowledge, responsibility, and society, providing students opportunities to investigate connections between intellectual pursuits, moral and public virtue, and the application of these investigations to practical and professional pursuits. This broad curriculum equips you with critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and advanced communication skills — abilities that employers and graduate schools consistently rank among the most valuable.

A Program Designed for Real-World Impact

Studying philosophy at UCF means more than classroom learning. Our faculty are award-winning teachers and internationally recognized scholars and researchers who bring their expertise into their courses. They specialize in areas such as ethics in technology, environmental philosophy, existentialism, and cognitive science. Additionally, because the department houses three distinct majors (philosophy, humanities and cultural studies, and religion and cultural studies), many of the faculty cross disciplinary boundaries and provide our students with a truly multi- and inter-disciplinary education. You will learn in small, discussion-based upper-division classes that foster collaboration and personalized mentorship.

Your academic experience will include opportunities such as:

  • Honors in the Major research projects guided by faculty experts
  • Internships in law, healthcare, museum studies and technology ethics
  • Study Away programs for cultural immersion and interdisciplinary learning
  • Directed research and independent study tailored to your interests

Many of our courses are designated as High Impact Practices, meaning you will graduate with hands-on experience that employers and graduate schools value.

Career and Graduate School Success

Philosophy majors at UCF develop skills that open doors to diverse careers. Our graduates have gone on to work in:

  • Law and legal consulting
  • Medicine and healthcare professions
  • Business and non-profit leadership
  • Education and research
  • Technology and ethics consulting

Philosophy graduates consistently outperform many other majors on entrance exams like the LSAT and GRE. The reason is clear: philosophy teaches you how to think critically and solve complex problems — skills that are in demand everywhere.

Skills That Last a Lifetime

As a philosophy major at UCF, you will gain:

  • Critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for leadership roles
  • Ethical decision-making abilities vital in technology, healthcare and policy
  • Advanced writing and communication skills sought after in every profession

Your philosophy degree from UCF is not just an education. It is a lifelong advantage that will serve you in any career you choose.

Join a vibrant community of thinkers at UCF. Explore ideas that shape the world, gain practical skills for any career and prepare for a future full of possibilities.

Highlights

Philosophy graduates consistently outperform on entrance exams like the LSAT and GRE
Gain hands-on experience through High Impact Practices-designated courses
Broad curriculum equips you with skills desirable to employers and graduate schools

Undergraduate Application Deadlines

Fall
May 1
Spring
November 1
Summer
March 1
Fall
June 1
Spring
November 1
Summer
March 1
Fall
March 1
Spring
September 1
Summer
January 1

Ready to get started?

Career Opportunities

UCF prepares you for life beyond the classroom. Here, you’ll experience a wide range of opportunity, like learning diverse skills from world-renowned faculty to networking with top employers across Central Florida to gaining first-hand experience in internships nearby. Achieve your degree and more as a Knight.
  • Cognitive Scientist
  • Counselor
  • Lawyer
  • Politician
  • Professor
  • Social Sciences Teacher

University of Central Florida Colleges