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Enroll in the online Associate of Arts in Philosophy at Franciscan University of Steubenville to pursue an education rooted in truth, reason, and the wisdom of the Catholic church.
Whether you’re a high school student seeking a strong start, an adult learner discerning next steps, or an aspiring seminarian, this flexible and affordable philosophy program builds your intellectual foundation and helps you become who God has made you to be.
Created for those in pursuit of the examined life, our two-year AA in Philosophy program inspires you to ask big questions, seek out truth, and discover your calling. All credits you earn are transferable to Franciscan’s bachelor’s degree programs, giving you flexibility and confidence as you plan your next steps.
With your associate's degree in philosophy, you’ll gain:
Logical reasoning and communication: Through your examination of the world’s greatest thinkers, you become proficient in engaging with complex concepts, evaluating and crafting well-founded arguments, and articulating thought-provoking ideas and questions.
Ethical and moral discernment: Our program’s faithfully Catholic framework and exploration of the Church’s moral teaching ensure you gain a solid understanding of right and wrong, empowering you to make sound decisions in your academic, professional, and personal life.
Versatile professional development: In-depth study of philosophy sharpens your intellectual stamina and adaptability. Whether your future vocation is in business, journalism, law, education, public service, or the Church, a philosophy degree positions you to excel.
At Franciscan, we keep the undergraduate admissions process straightforward. We accept applications on a rolling basis, meaning there is no formal deadline. You can begin your online Associate of Arts in Philosophy program in the fall, spring, or summer.
We recommend submitting your application at least one month before your intended start date to allow enough time for preparation.
If you’re a high school junior and senior ready to jumpstart your college education, you can earn up to 36 credits at Franciscan. Learn more about the Franciscan High School Advantage program.
1. Admission Requirements
Ready to find your place at Franciscan University? Start planning for your application by reviewing our undergraduate admission requirements.
2. Free Online Application
Your journey to Franciscan begins with submitting an online application, which is easy, free, and straightforward. We don’t require letters of recommendation, and the application process typically takes around 15 minutes.
3. Submit Documents
Along with completing the online application, you must submit these materials:
Official transcripts*
SAT, ACT, and/or CLT score OR a short essay**
*If you’re transferring from another college or university, you must submit official transcripts from every institution attended. Review our steps for transfer students.
**If you’re applying for admission in Spring 2026 or Fall 2026 with a 3.2 or higher cumulative weighted GPA, you may submit a one-page, double-spaced, 12-point-font essay responding to the following prompt:
At Franciscan University, our mission is “to educate, evangelize, and send forth joyful disciples.” Share a story or example from your life that shows how your faith and intellectual growth have shaped you into who you are today. How do you hope your time at Franciscan University will help you continue to grow spiritually and academically?
The essay can be emailed to [email protected] or to your admissions counselor with the subject line: “Undergraduate Admissions Essay.”
Supplemental materials should be emailed to the admissions office or sent to:
Office of Admissions
Franciscan University of Steubenville
1235 University Boulevard
Steubenville, OH 43952
Grounded in a liberal arts approach, our 60-credit online AA in Philosophy degree revolves around the most fundamental questions of human existence and empowers you with a well-rounded, versatile skill set.
Our curriculum weaves together a diverse range of topics, from theology to metaphysics to natural sciences, and examines what it means to be human, our moral and ethical responsibilities, and how God can be known through reason and experience.
Along with the required coursework, you have the flexibility to select a variety of philosophy and general education electives and integrate disciplines that align with your long-term academic and professional goals. During your time in the philosophy program, you strengthen your critical thinking, ability to reason and argue, and the intellectual curiosity to pursue truth wherever it leads.
Explore Franciscan's online philosophy program, including its courses and program requirements.
Online AA in Philosophy Program Requirements (60 Credits)
Philosophy of the Human Person (3 credits)
Foundations of Ethics (3 credits)
Metaphysics (3 credits)
Logic or Epistemology (3 credits)
Theology Core (3 credits)
Natural Science Core (3 credits)
History, Social Science, or American Founding Principles Core (3 credits)
Literature or Catholic Traditions in Fine Arts Core (3 credits)
Math or Economics Core (3 credits)
Three Philosophy Electives (9 credits)
Eight General Electives (24 credits)
As one of the leading Catholic universities in Ohio and the nation, Franciscan remains committed to delivering affordable, accessible, and purpose-filled education to all. Our online AA in Philosophy degree program offers competitively priced tuition and comprehensive financial aid options, empowering you to confidently invest in your future.
Whether you need help applying for assistance or creating a manageable payment plan, our staff provides personalized guidance every step of the way.
Explore Financial AidDiscover where Franciscan’s associate degree in philosophy can take you. Whether you continue on to earn a bachelor’s degree in philosophy or choose to major in another subject, our program strengthens your ability to reason, communicate, and problem-solve.
Additionally, we aligned our online AA in Philosophy with the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Program of Priestly Formation , making it a strong option for those preparing for seminary study.
Angela Bailey ’24
Angela Bailey is a Registered Nurse who uses what she learned in his MA in Catholic Studies to integrate her faith into her nursing.
John Caliguire ’24
John Caliguire is a middle school teacher who uses what he learned in his MA in Catholic Studies to integrate his faith into his lessons.
Jim Burke ’23
Jim Burke earned his MA in Catholic Studies in 2023 and uses his degree in his work as a private equity operator and director.
Mark ’05 and Katie (Lockwood ’05) Hartfiel
Serving the Lord is a mission Houston, Texas, residents Mark and Katie Hartfiel embrace with joy.
Joni Cheng '19
Joni Cheng first heard about Franciscan University’s Master of Arts in Theology and Christian Ministry while volunteering in her home Diocese of Hong Kong…
Benjamin Klare ’18
Benjamin Klare is the associate director for the Office for Marriage and Family Evangelization and Discipleship in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. He coordinates…
As you are challenged by a rigorous curriculum, our faculty is here to guide your exploration of the beauty and complexity of understanding God, the human person, right and wrong, and the ideas that have shaped Western civilization.