Philosophy & Religious Studies
Explore Meaning, Ethics and the Human Experience
The Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies at the University of North Florida invites students to explore big questions about meaning, values and the human experience. Through dynamic courses in philosophy and religious studies, students strengthen their critical thinking, communication and ethical decision-making skills while learning how ideas, practices, and beliefs shape cultures across Jacksonville and the world. Guided by award-winning faculty and hands-on learning opportunities, students graduate ready to pursue impactful careers in education, law, public service, business and beyond.
Upcoming Events
Ethics at UNF
Explore how students and faculty engage ethical questions
through dialogue, leadership and community impact.
The Value of the Humanities – Where They are Now
Rebecca Weiner, Class of 2019
Rebecca earned her undergraduate degrees in Philosophy and International Studies and her MS in Business Analytics. She now serves as Student Records Technical Coordinator in UNF’s Registrar’s Office.
John Campbell Class of 2016
John Campbell is a UNF Religious Studies graduate who built a career in hospitality before launching his own event planning and design company. He applies his academic background by advising couples on religious fusion weddings and writing for The Knot on topics such as Islamic wedding traditions and cultural wedding attire. His work has been featured in The New York Times, HGTV, and Martha Stewart.
Aaron Fortier, Class of 2014
Aaron Fortier is a UNF Philosophy and Religious Studies graduate who went on to earn his law degree from Florida State University. He serves as an assistant prosecuting attorney in Otsego County, Michigan, where he handles cases ranging from traffic offenses to serious felonies, including drug trafficking, child exploitation crimes, and homicide.
Current Student Opportunities
The department supports the UNF Ethics Bowl team, open to students in any major, and serves as the host for the First Coast High School Ethics Bowl and the UNF Ethics Academy. Students from any major may also participate in Ethics Internships.
Philosophy and Religious Studies majors and minors regularly contribute original research featured in Pandion: The Osprey Journal of Research and Ideas and have access to additional experiential learning opportunities designed specifically for philosophy students.
Student Awards and Clubs
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Outstanding Graduate
Majors in Philosophy and Majors in Religious Studies are eligible for the Outstanding Graduate Prize.
This is awarded to the student that displays the highest level of academic achievement in the (respective) field. The award includes a cash prize. The award is announced at the end of the spring semester and all graduates from the preceding academic year are eligible. The recipient of the award is selected by a faculty committee.
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Best Undergrad Paper
Majors and minors in Philosophy and Majors in Religious Studies are eligible.
One prize each is awarded for the best paper in Philosophy and in Religious Studies. The award includes a cash prize. Submissions are requested starting in Spring every year, and the award is announced at the end of the spring semester.
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Religious Studies Club
Religious Studies student can form an RSO to support their interests in Religious Studies. Contact the program director for more information.
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Swoop Philosophy RSO
Swoop Philosophy is a Registered Student Organization at UNF. Learn More.
Giving Back
Gifts to the Department of Philosophy & Religious Studies provide critical funding for student scholarships and enhance existing programs far beyond what is possible using state allocations alone.