Philosophy aims first, at developing the philosophical capacities and interests of each student, and, second, at offering a diverse program of instruction dealing with philosophers and philosophical issues both historically and in terms of the logic of arguments. Attention is also given to the bearing of philosophical ideas on other disciplines.

The philosophy department provides a challenging and stimulating environment in which graduate students are afforded the opportunity to develop academically and professionally. A graduate enrollment of about forty students and fifteen full-time faculty allows for quality student-faculty interaction as well as smaller graduate seminars. Beyond the graduate seminars offered each semester, academic growth is fostered in a variety of informal venues.