Department of Philosophy
Why study Philosophy?
Learn how to think, discuss and write about abstract ideas. Discover how philosophy contributes to disciplines as diverse as sociology and computer science. You'll develop skills that lead to success in a wide range of graduate studies, and beyond.
Why Gender and Sexuality Studies?
The interdisciplinary Gender and Sexuality Studies (GSXS) program (formerly Women’s Studies WMST) focuses on issues of gender and sexuality, as well as race, class, disability, citizenship/documentation, age, and environmental issues. The program is defined by intersectional feminism and is global in scope. Issues of equity, diversity, and inclusion feature in all GSXS courses. GSXS instructors are committed to collaborative and participatory classrooms, decolonial learning, and a human rights agenda.
The supportive and welcoming attitudes of the members of the Philosophy Department at the University of Calgary fostered a collaborative environment that allowed me to thrive personally and academically.
Makmiller Pedroso
PhD'12, Assistant Professor, Towson University
Explore our programs
Undergraduate programs
Philosophy
Learn to answer the big questions. What is the ultimate nature of reality? How should we construct a just society? And how can we lead good lives?
Undergraduate programs
Gender and Sexuality Studies
Are you interested in exploring concepts like racism, socioeconomic class, gender, sexual identity? Do you see connections between the classroom and the community? Are you attuned to the pressing social issues of our times? Consider the Gender and Sexuality Studies program. Join the discussion, learn from other students, and deepen your critical thinking skills.
Graduate programs
MA and PhD programs
Our department is a vibrant philosophical community. You will benefit from graduate seminars, an active visiting speakers series and regular research group meetings. Add your voice to our community.
Philosophy and Gender and Sexuality Studies news and announcements
University of Calgary Philosophy Graduate Conference
Join us April 30 - May 1 for the 14th annual Philosophy Graduate conference
From UCalgary to Malibu
Dr. Dyron Daughrity (PhD ’05) builds a life in scholarship and leadership
Philosophers do Internships
Christina Leach Allan worked on municipal and provincial governance issues with a public policy think tank in summer 2025
Transdisciplinary Connector Grants Awarded
Faculty of Arts plays central leadership and collaboration roles across the UCalgary campus
Brian Grant Undergraduate Philosophy Essay Contest
Continuing University of Calgary Undergraduate students are invited to participate in our annual philosophy essay contest
Philosophers do Internships
Pooneh (Penny) K. Kordi worked for a year with Environment, Health & Safety on Laboratory Safety Communications
In the media
In the News Cathy Billington, Faculty of Arts, in Calgary Herald
Gala aims to expand Sikh Studies program at University of Calgary
In the News Safaneh Mohaghegh Neyshabouri, Philosophy, in CBC News
Calgary's Iranian community looks to the future as military action unfolds in Iran
In the News Andrew Allison, Philosophy, The Conversation
What the looming federal election could mean for the Bank of Canada’s independence
In the News Andrew Allison writing in The Conversation Canada
What the looming federal election could mean for the Bank of Canada’s independence
In the News Safaneh Neyshabouri, Philosophy/School of Languages, Linguistics, Literatures and Cultures, in The Globe and Mail, in
Alberta tables legislation regulating pronouns in school, gender in sports, limiting access to health care
In the News Allen Habib, Philosophy, in CTV News
How to get a whole city to stop lawn watering? Experts say praise over punishment
Faculty of Arts Awards and Celebration of Excellence
Faculty of Arts Awards recognize faculty, staff, postdocs, graduate students and alumni whose work advances research, creativity and community impact across disciplines.
April 28, 2026 | 2 – 4:30 p.m.
