Degree Programs
The Philosophy major is organized around several key subjects. Philosophical Conversations introduces the historical development of philosophical ideas within different traditions. Value and Action covers philosophical theories of value and how values influence action. Nature and Knowledge examines different philosophical perspectives on the nature of reality and knowledge. Logic introduces formal systems of reasoning.
The Major
The philosophy major consists of eleven courses in philosophy, or ten courses in philosophy and one (only) of the following courses: POLI 212 or POLI 214. Majors must complete the following requirements:
- Two courses in Philosophical Conversations: either PHIL 200 Greek Philosophy or PHIL 205 17th & 18th Century, and one of the following: PHIL 301 Chinese Buddhism, PHIL 302 Daoism, or PHIL 303 Confucianism.
- Two courses in Value and Action, numbered between 210-229 or 310-329.
- Two courses in Nature and Knowledge, numbered between 230-249 or 330-339.
- One course in Logic: PHIL 350 Symbolic Logic
- One capstone course: PHIL 460 Advanced Seminar during senior year.
- Electives: Three courses- An appropriate PHIL 260, PHIL 360 or PHIL 460 topics course can count towards satisfying the Philosophical Conversation, Value and Action, or Nature and Knowledge requirements with Chair approval. A minimum of 19 credits must be completed at the 300-level or above.
- The Capstone Experience: This requirement is fulfilled by completing a major writing assignment in the Advanced Seminar (PHIL 460) during a student's senior year. All seniors should enroll in PHIL 460 during the fall semester.
The Minor
The minor in Philosophy consists of six courses, including the following:
- Two courses in Philosophical Conversations; either PHIL 200 Greek Philosophy or PHIL 205 17 & 18th Century Philosophy; and either PHIL 102 Introduction to Chinese Philosophy, PHIL 301 Chinese Buddhism, PHIL 302 Daoism or PHIL 303 Confucianism.
- One Value and Action course numbered between 210-229 or 310-329.
- One Nature and Knowledge course numbered between 230-349 or 330-339.
- Two electives: an appropriate PHIL 260, PHIL 360, or PHIL 460 course can count towards satisfying the Philosophical Conversation, Value and Action or Nature and Knowledge requirements with Chair approval.
- Minor Capstone: A capstone experience that either: (a) integrates a philosophical component into the student's major capstone project (with agreement of both the Philosophy department and the major department), (b) consists of an appropriate advanced (300- or 400-level) course which includes a major writing project (course and project to be approved by the department as fulfilling the capstone). Students electing to minor in Philosophy should consult an advisor in the department and are encouraged to explore ways to integrate the minor with their major.
Departmental Honors
Students with a GPA of 3.5 or above in philosophy are eligible to apply to seek honors during the fall semester of their senior year. The application includes a proposal for a thesis project. If the application is approved, a thesis committee will be formed and a writing schedule devised. The committee may revoke thesis approval at any time if adequate progress towards completion is not made. Students should consult with their advisor concerning application requirements and deadlines.
Study Abroad
Philosophy majors and minors are strongly encouraged to include study abroad in their academic planning. The opportunity to develop deeper understanding of another culture is of immense value to any liberally educated person, and of particular value to philosophy students. A number of programs are available that would be especially beneficial to someone studying philosophy, including programs in English and other languages. Students should plan off-campus study early in consultation with both their department advisor and the Study Abroad Office.
Four Year Plan
