Philosophy and Religion
Welcome to the homepage of the Department of Philosophy and Religion. We are a joint philosophy-religion department, offering a major and minor in both philosophy and religious studies.
Program Overview: Philosophy
The study of philosophy attempts to develop a student’s understanding of the presuppositions underlying the main areas of human inquiry, an awareness of the range of reasonable answers to the ultimate questions individuals ask themselves, and a habit of critical reflection concerning the student’s own convictions about belief and conduct. The major is designed to permit broad interdepartmental studies and interdisciplinary synthesis. It provides a desirable background for graduate study and work in human relations, law, literature, the social sciences and theology.
In addition to the possibilities that the study of religion itself offers, we have much to offer as a department. Our size affords us the luxury of really getting to know our students. We take seriously Drake’s commitment to collaborative learning between faculty and students. As faculty, we value time we spend with students beyond the classroom, engaging in conversation, mentoring students, and building community.
Academic Preparation
While no specific high school courses are required, successful students have a sense of wonder, an educated curiosity and a willingness to look at the world as if for the first time.
Career Options
Many philosophy graduates go on to graduate and law school. Students with a philosophy major possess people skills, the ability to reason creatively and critically, and the ability to adapt to new situations. These qualities are highly valued in business, government and education.
For the requirement of our philosophy major and minor, click on Programs/Philosophy.
Program Overview: Religion
A major or minor in religion at Drake University is a study of sacred texts and their interpretation, of theological and ethical reasoning, of the breadth of religious thinking and practice, and of the meaning of the religious quest for a comprehensive understanding of reality. Courses can prepare students for an understanding of the diverse religious traditions of the world, for graduate education or professional training for ministry, for an active religious life, or for critical reflection on the ways in which human communities experience and describe ultimate concerns.
In addition to the possibilities that the study of religion itself offers, we have much to offer as a department. Our size affords us the luxury of really getting to know our students. We take seriously Drake’s commitment to collaborative learning between faculty and students. As faculty, we value time we spend with students beyond the classroom, engaging in conversation, mentoring students, and building community.
Academic Preparation
There are no prerequisite high school courses or requirements needed for enrollment in the religion program, but students should have a well-rounded academic high school curriculum.
Internships & Opportunities
Students preparing for ministry are encouraged to participate in apprenticeships under local religious leaders. Majors and minors are also encouraged to study abroad.
Career Options
The major and minor in religion are non-professional, but are fine preparation for graduate school or seminary. Students who major or minor in religion also go to law school, into business, charitable organizations, and government.
For the requirement of our philosophy major and minor, click on Programs/Religion.
