Philosophy and Finance Polymath Pathway
- Bachelor of Art (BA)
- Polymath Pathway
Modes of study:
Two ethical paths for deep critical thinkers meeting at logic
The Philosophy and Finance Polymath Pathway at the University of Southern Maine is designed for undergraduate students who want to pair quantitative expertise with strong critical thinking and ethical reasoning. By combining philosophy and finance, this interdisciplinary program helps you develop analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills that are valuable across a wide range of industries and career paths.
Graduates of the Philosophy and Finance Polymath Pathway build a multidisciplinary foundation that supports work in areas such as investing, banking, corporate finance, public policy, consulting, and nonprofit leadership — as well as future graduate study, including law school. You’ll gain the ability to evaluate complex systems, question assumptions, and communicate insights across teams. This integrated approach prepares you to stand out to employers with adaptable, logic-driven decision-making skills that extend beyond technical training alone.
Academic catalog
USM’s engaging curriculum ensures you’ll receive both an integrative and rigorous polymath education that incorporates Philosophy and Finance.
Browse course list
Program duration
Approximately 4 years. Work with your USM academic advisor to develop a tailored and streamlined academic plan to complete both programs on schedule.
Department and School
Admissions
SAT and ACT scores are optional. Students are encouraged to begin Polymath Pathways in their first year.
Logic trains students to analyze arguments, evaluate evidence, and reason carefully about complex systems. When paired with finance, those same skills help students make clearer, more responsible decisions about risk, markets, and the real-world impact of financial choices.
Dr. Yishai Cohen, Associate Professor of Philosophy
Why become a Philosophy and Finance Polymath?
Philosophy and finance may seem unrelated at first, but both rely on ethical reasoning, logical analysis, and the ability to navigate complex systems—skills that are increasingly important across today’s job market.
The Philosophy and Finance Polymath Pathway demands both quantitative, data-driven financial training and theoretical and historical analysis and interpretation. Philosophy strengthens your writing and communication skills and helps you truly understand corporate responsibility by connecting decisions made behind the scenes by connecting decisions with their real-world outcomes.
As a Philosophy and Finance Polymath Pathway student at USM, you’ll be exposed to new ways of thinking about and engaging with the world around you.
Philosophy
Philosophy provides tools you need to think critically and argue persuasively across complex issues. You’ll develop a skill set that proves advantageous in most industries, including how to examine and solve problems, come up with real solutions, and build shared understanding with your community. A background in philosophy is an excellent choice if you’re considering graduate school, a career in law, public policy, or advocacy work.
Finance
Finance builds on your analytical foundation while expanding your career options.
With a background in finance, you’ll learn about how capital is raised, invested, and managed to create value and how to make smart financial decisions in an increasingly complex global economy. This translates to careers across corporate finance, investment management, financial services, and a growing fintech sector.
Why should you consider applying for the University of Southern Maine’s Polymath Pathway in Philosophy and Finance?
Finance is fundamentally about reasoning under uncertainty, and few disciplines sharpen that skill better than philosophy. Students who bring philosophical rigor to financial questions don’t just make better decisions – they ask better questions, which is ultimately the more valuable skill.
Dr. Derek Tharp, Associate Professor of Finance
Where can you go with a Polymath Pathway in Philosophy and Finance?
Build career agility
Studies show* that students that complete dual majors are more prepared to be agile in today’s job market and therefore find more career stability. This Polymath Pathway gives you a strong foundation for graduate study and careers across a dynamic mix of career paths such as banking, corporate finance, law, public policy, and advocacy.
*National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER), 2024
Wondering if tuition is affordable? Get answers to your questions about costs
Are you a current New England resident?
If you’re a resident of New England, you could qualify for reduced tuition rates, thanks to the NEBHE Tuition Break Program.
Financial aid and scholarships available
Scholarships offer valuable financial aid that doesn’t need to be repaid. You’ll be automatically considered for Merit Scholarships when you apply for admission by the deadline. Additional opportunities are available.
USM School of Business is AACSB-accredited
This mark of distinction is achieved by fewer than 5% of all business schools in the world, ensuring the highest of standards across faculty qualifications, curriculum rigor, and assurance of learning.
Next steps
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