Welcome to the Department of Philosophy!

Fall 25 Highlights 

Why take a philosophy class?

Yes, you have to. But also:
Read the article here, and find more information on the benefits of a Philosophy degree here: Why Study Philosophy?

Trying to enroll in a closed class?

Go to Undergraduate Resources for information on how to request enrollment in closed classes.

Considering a career in the health professions?

The following late addition to the PHIL Fall 25 schedule might be just the right course for you!

PHIL 4335 – Biomedical Ethics (3 cr.)
TTh 2pm-3:15pm | Dr. Valentine
In MCC Discovery tier, Basic Needs and Justice theme

Interested in our new Philosophy Disciplinary Honors Program?

Click on the poster to enlarge and check out our dedicated webpage here.

Department News and Events

The Philosophy Department welcomes Dr. Patrick Ahern, who joins the faculty as a Teaching Assistant Professor in Fall 2025. Dr. Ahern is a political and ethical philosopher whose research focuses on themes of Critical Theory, Early Modern Thought, Human Rights Theory, and Critical Social Justice. He received his Ph.D in Philosophy from Vanderbilt University. Select publications include “Agitated Americans: Frankfurt School Reflections on National Identity Formation" (Chiasma, An International Site for Thought) and “Empowered Peace: Spinoza’s Defense of Dynamic and Inclusive Democracy” (Journal for Peace and Social Justice).

Congratulations to Dr. Desiree Valentine, who has been awarded a prestigious American Council of Learned Societies (ACLS) fellowship to work on her project, "Reproductive Reparations: Justice and the Afterlives of Slavery." See the ACLS announcement here.

The Philosophy department celebrated the 2025 graduates and awards winners. 

Congratulations to Dr. Claire Lockard, who has accepted a tenure-track position at Lewis University (Romeoville, IL) starting Fall 25. She'll be missed!