Do you have a love of wisdom? Surely you must, if you are thinking of exploring beyond your borders and considering philosophy study abroad programs! The term “philosophy” actually means “love of wisdom”, and it’s pretty much a guarantee that your mind explodes when studying abroad and being confronted with new places, food, languages and experiences — in the best possible way!
Philosophy study abroad programs are some of the most unique. Which one is right for you?
If you’re intent on some deep thinking, pondering the meaning of existence, or the importance of various values in life, studying abroad is the perfect way to achieve your goals. It’s a given that you’ll experience something new at every turn when you study abroad, and soaking in these new ideas, trying new things, and seeing how others live are just some of the many positives.
Studying philosophy abroad is a natural choice, and your new insights will have you come back home a more knowledgeable individual.
9 best philosophy study abroad programs
Editor’s note: This information on philosophy study abroad programs was accurate at the time of publishing. Please refer to each individual program for current data.
1. Study in Greece with HISA — 9.62
Ancient Greece was the birthplace of the western school of philosophy, so what better place to study abroad for philosophy than in Greece?! Situated on the beautiful Cycladic island of Paros, HISA provides an immersive program setup where you get to live and experience a small Greek island town, becoming one of the members of the community.
Their philosophy courses also focus on community interaction, allowing you to interview locals to find out about their ways of thinking and ways of life.
2. IES Abroad in Paris — 9.3
I think, therefore I am. Maybe this famous quote by Descartes, one of the most famous modern philosophers, inspired you to look into philosophy study abroad programs? Well why not head to his home country of France to immerse yourself in their culture and daily life?
Many 18th century French philosophers (think Voltaire, Rousseau, and Montesquieu) helped shape the thinking and politics of the United States and its leaders, so you may find more similarities in philosophies than you were expecting!
You’ll never run out of things to do in Paris, and IES Abroad will set you up with housing, French language classes, and support you during your stay abroad.
3. Semester in India: Spirit and Service — 10
If Ancient Hindu philosophy is more your style, you’ll fall in love with this small group program in India. With Carpe Diem Education, you will be immersed in Indian culture, participate in a homestay with a local family, practice mediation and yoga, and take Hindu philosophy courses at a local ashram.
You will be living and breathing the Hindu way of life and ideals, all while traveling throughout India and experiencing different regions and lifestyles.
4. USAC Thailand: Chiang Mai-Southeast Asian Economic Studies — 9.33
Chiang Mai is a beautiful city in Northern Thailand, popular with expats and digital nomads, nestled in the mountains, and filled with temples, markets, and food stalls to keep you busy for days. This makes it the perfect place to relax your mind and take on a new perspective, learning new elements of eastern philosophy, and soaking up new ideas in the Buddhist nation.
With a temple on every corner and groups of monks walking the streets morning, noon, and night, there will be no shortage of places for you to relax and reflect, as well as famously friendly new people to interact with and explore new ways of thinking.
5. Nepal: Tibetan and Himalayan People — 9.7
In this small group study abroad experience, you will get to immerse yourself in the country of Nepal and learn about the deeply spiritual people and traditional practices in this vibrant country. Through homestays, you will get to interact with locals and learn about their way of life and their beliefs.
Included excursions to remote parts of the country will allow you to explore many different ways of life. An included independent study portion of this SIT program is the perfect way to tailor a project to your own interests and pursue your philosophy studies.
6. AIFS Study Abroad in Prague, Charles University: Semester — 9.05
Perfectly nestled in Central Europe, you’ll be stunned by the picturesque architecture, brightly colored buildings, and drool-worthy food at every turn in Prague. In close proximity to other countries, you’ll have your pick of destinations for weekend trips, and be able to tick off many bucket list European destinations easily.
This will also allow you to get to experience many cultures and different ways of living and thinking, perfect for the budding philosopher. When in Prague there is no better place than to sit and relax in one of the beautiful old waterfront cafes with a cup of coffee and your thoughts.
7. IFSA University of Edinburgh — 9.38
Another charming, English-speaking city in the U.K. is Edinburgh. You’ll be blown away by Scotland’s natural beauty and Edinburgh is an easy train ride away from idyllic coastal spots, islands, and the rolling green hills of the Scottish highlands. A bustling city with a thriving art community, you’ll never run out of things to do in Edinburgh.
IFSA helps you with your transition into Scottish university life, making you feel integrated into the community. Spend your free time hiking the iconic Arthur’s Seat just at the edge of the city, where it’s easy to get lost in your thoughts and the beautiful surroundings around you.
8. Study Abroad in Rome at John Cabot University — 9.46
Be inspired by the beauty in Rome, from its architecture, famous paintings and sculptures in museums and galleries, and Insta-worthy culinary delights. Located in the trendy Trastevere district, John Cabot University is perfectly placed in the heart of Rome and helps with housing nearby.
The program plans all sorts of activities and trips to get you involved in the local community and explore Italy in your time outside of the classroom.
9. Semester at Sea: Global Study Abroad on a Floating Campus — 9.73
So you want to open your mind to other ways of life, different cultures, and new ways of thinking? Can’t decide on just one destination? Well how about visiting 11 new countries all in one semester!
Semester at Sea allows you to complete your studies onboard a cruise ship while you sail around the world, disembarking at countries spanning every continent, and soaking in countless new experiences.
Your shipmates will hail from all over the globe, so expect your horizons to be broadened both onboard and off. Limited onboard WiFi could actually turn out to be a plus in this situation, allowing for the ultimate disconnect to focus on your thoughts and studies.
Can’t pick? Compare these programs side-by-side for FREE using MyGoAbroad
Ready to study abroad? Philosophy is waiting for you!
Studying philosophy abroad will be nothing but beneficial to earning your degree.
As a philosophy student, you’re already used to thinking outside the box, challenging yourself, and taking in new ideas. All of these things will come in handy as you take the ultimate leap outside your comfort zone and participate in a philosophy study abroad program.
There’s no better way to explore a new country and culture than to immerse yourself in their daily lives, becoming part of the community and building bonds with locals.
Besides being an obviously rewarding experience from an academic standpoint, studying abroad is FUN! Get ready for an amazing, exciting, challenging, and memorable experience that can shape your beliefs, habits, and choices moving forward in life!
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