Why Study Philosophy at Assumption?
Studying philosophy is the pursuit of understanding the issues by which human beings orient themselves in the world. What is it to be human? What kind of life do I want to live? Is nature hostile, indifferent, or helpful to human beings? What role does God play in human life?
If we do not examine these opinions, we risk leading a life based on illusions and lies. This ascent from unexamined opinions toward knowledge of ourselves, our world, and our place in the world is the beating heart of philosophical inquiry.
Philosophy courses are particularly concerned with developing students’ disposition to deal with these issues mindfully and with reasons in their writing and conversing. They do this by sharing the reasonings of major thinkers of the Western philosophical tradition, such as Plato, Aristotle, Aquinas, Descartes, Kant, and Nietzsche.
Rather than becoming familiar with thinkers’ doctrines, Assumption philosophy students engage thinkers’ questions and the reasons they give for their positions. Philosophy students cultivate intellectual habits of analysis and insight that are sought in every professional field but, most importantly, philosophical inquiry helps students progress toward a knowledge of themselves that allows them to live a better life because it is lived more thoughtfully.
J. Patrick Corrigan, Ph.D
Faculty Profile
EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING
Assumption's Rome Campus
At Assumption's campus in Rome, Italy, the city and the country become your classroom through daily and weekend-long excursions throughout "the eternal city" and the Italian countryside. This unique study abroad experience will enrich your academic and cultural pursuits as you walk in the footsteps of emperors and gladiators then enjoy delectable Italian cuisine or perhaps a cappuccino after class in a local cafe. (Did you know that your financial aid follows you to Rome?)
Explore the Rome CampusLearn the Skills Employers Seek
Faculty/Student Research
The Assumption curriculum encourages scholarly and real-world experience. With hands-on research conducted alongside faculty mentors, students gain a depth of knowledge and skills that lead to professional success and personal fulfillment.Study Abroad
At Assumption University, the world is your classroom. Students can study and explore abroad in over 50 places from Vienna to England, South Africa, and even our own campus in historic, yet modern, Rome, Italy. Assumption’s study abroad program offers culture, history, and a living classroom for all.Internships
Assumption starts planning for your future the day you arrive on campus. The Denecker Career Development & Internship Center helps students secure exciting and fulfilling internships where you’ll apply knowledge obtained in the classroom in a professional setting, preparing for a future career or additional study. Assumption connects students to internship opportunities in corporations, government agencies, research hospitals, non-profit organizations, and more.
Danielle Aiken
Philosophy 2026
“ Philosophy at Assumption University challenges and expands your intellectual curiosity. Its courses are steppingstones to inquiring about the larger questions in life such as: who am I? what purpose do I serve, for myself and others? While focusing on classic challenging works, the Philosophy Department allows me to better understand various philosophical viewpoints. The critical thinking skills I learned also translate to other aspects of my Assumption education, career, and my life”
Anthony Fayette
Philosophy 2025
“ Philosophy is one of the most important subjects—if it could be called a “subject”—you can pursue. Studying philosophy by studying the influential thinkers who have shaped our world turns you into a better thinker, and this you can take with you into any job or career. But, more importantly, studying philosophy helps you become a better and more mindful person, both of which we are called to be by our Creator. Assumption’s philosophy program is quite spectacular, from the faculty and professors to the curriculums and class discussions”
Sara Higgins
Philosophy 2025
“ Assumption University’s philosophy department will prepare you well for law school, as it has me. The program improves your critical thinking skills, persuasive writing abilities, and changes the way you look at the world. My favorite classes were those included in the department’s LEX minor, which emphasizes philosophy’s influence on political science. Consider studying philosophy, regardless of your future career. The skills you will learn in these classes are applicable in every field.”
Gabriel Matreia
Philosophy 2025
“ Philosophy has given me a deeper awareness of myself and provided me with something to aim at, what is good and true, whether in business or personal relationships. When Socrates revealed that the journey of knowing oneself was a fundamental axiom to the good life, a breakthrough in mental stability was made. Assumption's philosophy program champions these timeless ideas, inspiring students to live with purpose and integrity. While other institutions may overlook ancient wisdom, Assumption nurtures it.”
First-rate Academics in a Catholic University Setting
Assumption University awakens in students a sense of wonder, discovery, and purpose, forming graduates known for their intellectual seriousness, thoughtful citizenship, and devotion to the common good. Students are provided an education that shapes their souls, forms them intellectually, and prepares them for meaningful careers. Enlivened by the harmony of faith and reason, here, students’ minds and hearts are transformed.