McMaster Philosophy cultivates clarity, precision, and creativity in its students’ thought and writing – invaluable skills for rewarding professional and personal lives. Our majors go on to graduate studies and to careers in law, public policy, education, and many other fields that reward a refined capacity for clear communication and critical thinking.

The aim of philosophy is to critically engage with fundamental questions from different perspectives. Philosophers think about the meaning of life, the justification of our beliefs, the moral character of just societies, the constitution of our identities, and other big questions in a rigorous and open-ended way. Philosophy fosters a diverse debate to which everybody who is interested in reflecting on our basic concepts and in questioning received wisdom respectfully is invited.

Our department creates an inclusive space in which faculty and students can discuss their opinions freely. Coming from different backgrounds, we help and challenge each other to understand ourselves and the world around us better. Our program provides you with the conceptual tools and argumentative skills to discuss both traditional questions of philosophy and the pressing issues of today. Philosophy prepares students to make a difference in the world.

Students wishing to enter into a Philosophy major will apply at the end of their first year. Application for Admission to Level II will occur in mid-March on the Mosaic student information system. Visit the ‘Choosing Your Program’ guide for more information.