Major in Philosophy
See Liberal Arts and Sciences, Curriculum, for the undergraduate curriculum
in liberal arts and sciences, with major in philosophy, leading to
the degree bachelor of arts.
The major in philosophy offers study in the important ideas, values,
and ways of thinking that underlie cultural, social, and political
processes, and that direct the specialized search for knowledge. Philosophical
study broadens the student's educational experience and facilitates
more effective participation in the human community.
An undergraduate major in philosophy should have a broad background
in the liberal arts and sciences. The major program includes both
a core and electives to provide a thorough acquaintance with the history
of philosophy and further concentration in historical and systematic
issues. An undergraduate major in philosophy can prepare the student
for graduate work in philosophy, and also for further study in law,
history, theology, religion, political science, social and political
theory, or literature.
The degree program in philosophy requires a minimum of 33 credits.
The following courses compose the core program of the major from which
15 credits shall be chosen. Additionally, two courses at the 400
level or above are required.
a. Ethical theory: One course required. Choose from 330 (Ethical Theory),
335 (Social and Political Philosophy).
b. History: 310 (Ancient Philosophy) is required, and either 314 (17th
Century Philosophy) or 315 (18th Century Philosophy).
c. Metaphysics and Epistemology: One course required. Choose from
364 (Metaphysics: God, Minds, and Matter),366 (Truth, Belief, and
Reason), 380 (Philosophy of Science).
d. Logic: 207 (Introduction to Symbolic Logic) is required.
The department offers a minor in philosophy which may be earned by
completing a total of 15 credits in philosophy. At least 9 credits
must be in courses numbered 300 or above. Students may want to emphasize
specific areas by taking 15 hours of courses chosen from the following:
Philosophy of Science: 201, 206 or 207, 314, 315, 380, 381, 480, 483,
485
History of Philosophy: 201, 310, 314, 315, 316, 317, 318; 460
Social Values and Policy: 230, 235, 331, 332, 333, 335, 336, 338,
343, 430, 535
English proficiency requirement: The department requires a grade of
C+ or better in each of Engl 104 and 105 (or 105H), and approval of
writing by instructor of one history of philosophy course (310-318),
to be designated by the student.
2007-09 Four Year Plan
Graduate Study
The department offers a graduate minor in philosophy.
For those taking the M.A. or M.S., the minor requirement is two courses
above 300 (but not 490) taken in conjunction with 590. For those taking
the Ph.D., the requirement is four courses above 300, at least one of
which is above 400 (but not 490) all taken in conjunction with 590.
Interested students should ask the chair to assign a minor adviser.
The department participates in the interdepartmental program in general
graduate studies.
Courses open for nonmajor graduate credit: All 300- and 400-level
courses except 490.
