See Also:
Philosophy Major Learning Outcomes
Students who successfully complete a major in Philosophy should be able to:
- Read and comprehend arguments in their primary sources (in translation, as necessary);
- Demonstrate an understanding of the methodologies employed in philosophical inquiry, as well as the cultural and historical origins of those methods;
- Engage in a critical analysis of the legitimacy and limitations of the knowledge these methodologies elicit;
- Appreciate the role of cultural and historical context in the development of philosophy, and appreciate the ethical issues created by the culture and the dominant philosophies of the modern and contemporary West;
- Articulate their own thoughts and ideas relevant to philosophical inquiry orally and write essays that are clear and well structured, exhibiting command of the preceding abilities.
The Philosophy Major
The major in Philosophy leads to the Bachelor of Arts degree. Philosophy majors are required to have a GPA of at least 2.0 in the major at graduation. No more than eight credits in Philosophy may be taken Credit/No Credit to count toward the major; two of these credits must be PHIL 600, which is only offered Credit/No Credit.
Requirements:
The major in Philosophy completion of at least 42 semester credit hours as outlined below:
PHIL 220 - Epistemology: The Theory of Knowledge
PHIL 310 - Global Justice
PHIL 580 - Philosophy Seminar
Two of the Following:
PHIL 130 - Values and Knowledge
PHIL 140 - Ethics and Community
PHIL 165 - The Examined Life: Philosophy Through the Ages
Note:
It is recommended, but not required, that these courses be taken before courses above the 100 level.
One of the Following:
PHIL 227 - Religion and the Challenge of Modernity OR
RELST 227 - Religion and the Challenge of Modernity
PHIL 260 - Ancient Greek Philosophy
PHIL 270 - Early Modern Philosophy: Science and Knowledge
PHIL 350 - Ethics and Existence
Two Elective Courses:
- In philosophy or approved cognate courses from another discipline. By consulting with faculty, students may use electives to create an emphasis in a specific area of philosophy.