The Philosophy Department offers three awards for exceptional work in Philosophy. The Senior Book Prize, the Glenn Trawinski Student Leadership Award, and the Samuel J. Baum Memorial Book Award.

The Senior Book Prize is given annually for "superior academic performance by a senior in the Department of Philosophy". This award is presented at the Student Recognition Day ceremonies.

The Glenn Trawinski Student Leadership Award is given to the student who has excelled in service or leadership for the undergraduate Philosophical community. This award is also presented at the Student Recognition Day ceremonies.

The Samuel J. Baum Memorial Book Award is made possible by the generosity of Dr. Kevin Corcoran, Associate Professor of Philosophy at Calvin College, Michigan. Dr. Corcoran is a 1998 graduate of UMBC with degrees in philosophy and social work.