Appalachian State University
Philosophy (BA)
Application Deadlines
Location
Boone campus
Got credits?
Learn about transferring credits to App State
Explore the realm where curiosity meets critical thinking.
Philosophy is the study of the most basic moral, legal, aesthetic, religious and metaphysical ideas by which we pursue understanding and develop principles of conduct.
With App State’s Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Philosophy, you will foster a sense of wonder and develop a rigorous intellectual method for gaining an understanding of oneself and the world. By learning about the heritage of philosophical examination, you’ll acquire an informed basis for arriving at your own conclusions about your most fundamental beliefs and values.
Philosophy encourages students to become critical thinkers — to reason clearly and correctly concerning significant issues.
Undergraduate studies in Philosophy fit well into many pre-professional programs, including law school. Emphasizing careful, deep and critical analysis of concepts and problems, Philosophy is an excellent major for students seeking business and government careers that require a liberal arts background.
A ‘Best College’ for 2025
The Princeton Review named App State among the best schools in the U.S. and Southeast for 2025.
Top 3 in innovation, undergraduate teaching
U.S. News & World Report has recognized App State as a top three school for innovation and the high quality of its undergraduate instruction for eight consecutive years.
A ‘Best College’ for value
App State’s quality, affordability and student outcomes place it among the nation’s 2024 best schools for value, according to Money.com
Elevate Your Education
Courses
Minors
A minor is required. Popular minors include Religion, Psychology, Criminal Justice and Political Science.
Transferring Credits
Learn about App State’s credit transfer process, and use our Transfer Equivalency Course Search tool to determine how your courses may transfer to App State.
General Education
With courses in history, natural and social sciences and humanities, App State’s General Education Program will reshape your outlook on learning and provide a foundational skill set that will prepare you for any career.
Accelerated Master’s
You can begin your graduate studies as an undergraduate and earn your master’s degree in as little as one year.
Careers and Mountaineers
Where can an App State degree take you? Anywhere you want to go! Our passionate and engaged alumni become leaders in their communities and chosen professions.
Careers
- Affirmative Action Representative
- Arts Consultant
- Author
- Columnist
- Counselor
- Critic
- Diplomat
- Editorial Assistant
- Employment Interviewer
- Financial Consultant
- Foreign Services Officer
- Fund-raiser
- Guidance Counselor
- Hospital Administrator
- Journalist
- Labor Relations Researcher
- Lawyer
- Lobbyist
- Management Trainee
- Nonprofit/NGO Manager
- Nursing Home Director
- Paralegal
- Political Campaign Worker
- Professor
- Psychologist
- Public Policy Manager
- Public Relations Representative
- Public Service Official
- Reporter
- Research Assistant
- Researcher/Historian
- Sales Representative
- Social Worker
- YMCA/YWCA Worker
Some of these jobs may require education beyond a bachelor’s degree.
Career information resource
App State’s Career Development Center
Services provided by the Career Development Center include resume reviews, career coaching, job and internship search assistance, and other tools for you to achieve life and professional success.
More to Explore at App State
Fund Your Education
Numerous scholarship and financial aid opportunities are available to help fund your App State education. Learn more about scholarships and financial aid.
International Experience
Work outside your cultural boundaries. Learn more.
Real-world Internships
Gain firsthand experience while earning your degree. Learn more
Find Your Community
Get inspired and get involved by joining App State clubs and organizations, such as the Philosophical Society. Learn more
Honors College
Develop high-level creative thinking and research skills. Learn more and check out the departmental honors program.
Apply
Are you ready to become a Mountaineer? Take the next step, apply for admission to App State and elevate your future success.
Admissions questions? Contact us.
Connect
Visit Campus
Explore App State’s campuses in Boone and Hickory and learn more about what life is like as a Mountaineer.
Attend an information session to get to know App State’s people and programs.
Admissions Counselor
Have questions related to the App State admissions process? Our admissions counselors are here to help.