Ethics, Philosophy, and Religion
major
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In the Ethics, Philosophy, and Religion (EPR) major, students explore humanity’s most enduring questions, study the wisdom of ancient and contemporary philosophers, and examine religious beliefs and practices from across the globe. Whether students choose to concentrate in ethics, philosophy, or religion, or chart an independent path, they develop their capacities for ethical engagement, critical analysis, reasoned dialogue, and cultural and religious understanding. Opportunities for advanced research, public presentations, and community-engaged learning prepare students for meaningful careers in education, law, politics, research, ministry, and non-profit leadership, among others.
Curriculum
The Ethics, Philosophy, and Religion major combines the study of life’s biggest questions with practical preparation for a wide range of careers. All students complete two foundation courses—PH 103: Philosophy and the Good Life and RS 120: Christianity: Past and Present—which introduce students to philosophical reasoning, ethical reflection, and religious traditions. Students also take courses in ethics and values, choosing from engaging offerings such as Healthcare Ethics, Truth and Propaganda, Philosophy of Disability, Philosophy of Mind and Neuroethics, and Christianity and World Religions. In their senior year, students complete a capstone course that brings together their learning in a substantial research or applied project.
Students can tailor the major to match their interests and career goals by choosing an Individualized Path or by concentrating in Ethics, Philosophy, or Religion. The Ethics concentration explores pressing moral issues in healthcare, technology, media, and public life. The Philosophy concentration examines enduring questions about truth, knowledge, reality, and human nature through courses such as Rethinking the Modern Canon and Logic. The Religion concentration studies Christianity alongside global traditions, with courses in Judaism, Buddhism, and Hinduism. This flexible curriculum allows students to pursue their passions while developing critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and cross-cultural understanding that complement virtually any other major.
New program beginning Fall 2026
Saint Michael’s College is updating its academic offerings to better align with evolving workforce needs and to enhance resource efficiency at St. Mike’s. These changes will strengthen the interdisciplinary learning and societal engagement already inherent in a Saint Michael’s education while staying true to our liberal arts vision and mission.
In Fall 2026, this major combine and replace the existing programs Philosophy and Ethics and Religious Studies for incoming students. More information about the curriculum will be shared soon.
Careers
Ethics, Philosophy, and Religion prepares students to think deeply, lead responsibly, and navigate a complex world with clarity and purpose. In this major, students develop strong analytical and communication skills while exploring questions of meaning, justice, human dignity, and global responsibility. Many students choose to double-major, pairing Ethics, Philosophy, and Religion with fields such as Business, Political Science, Psychology, Pre-Med, Computer Science, or Education. This combination equips graduates not only with professional expertise, but with the ethical insight and cross-cultural understanding employers increasingly seek. Whether pursuing careers in law, healthcare, public policy, nonprofit leadership, corporate management, technology, or graduate study, our students stand out for their ability to think critically, communicate persuasively, and lead with integrity.
Recent graduates have gone on to successful careers in education, library and information science, counseling, and nonprofit leadership, while others have pursued graduate and professional study in law, theology, public policy, and the humanities. Many alumni have also entered medical and healthcare fields — including medicine, nursing, public health, and healthcare administration — where their training in ethics, critical thinking, and compassionate understanding of diverse worldviews provides a strong foundation for serving others with integrity and insight.
After graduation, our majors go on to careers and advanced degree programs like:
- Education
- Teaching
- Curricular Design
- Character Education
- Ministry and Faith-Based Leadership
- Law and Legal Studies
- Public Policy and International Relations
- Business and Nonprofit Leadership
- Corporate Ethics
- Healthcare & Bioethics
- Medical Ethics
- Healthcare Leadership
- Counseling
- Social Services
- Graduate study in Philosophy, Theology, Religious Studies, or Ethics
Faculty
Contact
Eva Pascal
Director: East Asian Studies Program, Associate Professor of Religious Studies
Saint Edmund's Hall 235, Box 366
epascal@smcvt.edu
802.654.2996