As part of the process of study every student will be introduced to the history of philosophy and to a set of methods for analysis and reflection. They will acquire critical skills that allow them to analyze complex materials and arguments with precision and clarity.  Each student will have the opportunity to work with award-winning faculty. The focus at Vanderbilt is on the student and on imparting those skills that will prepare him or her for a successful life and career.

The Vanderbilt Philosophy Department has a long and distinguished history of excellence and innovation in Philosophy. Faculty research spans the major areas of philosophical inquiry and reflects an uncommonly broad spectrum of methodological commitments, encompassing analytic, continental, pragmatist, and historical approaches. Departmental research strengths include Epistemology, Ethics, Feminist Philosophy, History of Philosophy (Ancient, Medieval, Modern, 19th and 20th Century), Metaphysics, Phenomenology, Philosophy of Language, Philosophy of Race, and Social and Political Philosophy.