PHREL-BA - Philosophy and Religious Studies (BA)

The undergraduate program in Philosophy aims to train students to think clearly and critically about the deepest and broadest questions concerning the fundamental structure of reality and our place in it including how we should act in our lives. With philosophy you gain the tools needed to make arguments and exercise sound judgment about the most fundamental concerns of human life. The program introduces students to the best contemporary theories, and their historical roots, across philosophy including metaphysics and the philosophy of science (the study of the fundamental structure of reality), epistemology (theories of how we know about the world), ethics and political philosophy (how we should act and how society should be organized), and logic (what is correct reasoning). Courses in the major equip students with core skills in critical reading, analytical thinking, sound argumentation, and the clear, well-organized expression of ideas.

Philosophy is an excellent major for those planning a career in law, medicine, business, or the non-profit sector. It provides analytical skills and a breadth of perspective helpful to those called upon to make decisions about their conduct and the welfare of others. Philosophy majors have an excellent admission record to professional and graduate schools.

Undergraduate courses in Religious Studies are designed to engage students existentially and assist them in thinking about intellectual, ethical, and sociopolitical issues in the world’s religions. The department’s faculty seek to provide tools for understanding the complex encounters among religious ideas, practices, and communities, and the past and present cultures that have shaped and been shaped by religion. Courses, therefore, expose students to leading concepts in the field of religious studies such as god(s), sacrifice, ritual, scripture, prophecy, and priesthood; approaches developed over the past century, including the anthropological, historical, psychological, philosophical, and phenomenological, that open religion to closer inspection and analysis; and essential questions, themes, developments, features, and figures in the world’s religious traditions. The department encourages and supports the acquisition of languages needed for engagement with sacred texts and interpretive traditions, as well as study abroad at Stanford’s overseas centers where religions can be observed and experienced in their contemporary contexts.

Students contemplating the Philosophy and Religious Studies major are invited to consult with the Directors of Undergraduate Studies of Philosophy and Religious Studies. The Undergraduate Student Services Officer in Building 70 can also field questions regarding the declaration procedure within the department.