Programs in Philosophy

About the Philosophy Department

The Department of Philosophy offers a program leading to the Bachelor of Arts in philosophy. Students are trained to develop their ability to think critically and to examine fundamental questions about the nature of the self and the world, and thus to establish a foundation for intelligent action in the world. Students are exposed to a variety of philosophical perspectives and asked to philosophize.

Because philosophy teaches clear, coherent and creative thinking, it can be of service in almost any field, particularly in law, medicine, government, education, computers, publishing and business. The department also prepares students for graduate study in law, theology, social work and philosophy.

Faculty Profiles

Degrees Offered by the Philosophy Department

• Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy
• Major in Philosophy
• Minor in Philosophy

Major in Philosophy:

The philosophy curriculum consists of 30 credit hours in two introductory-level courses three classical core courses focusing on fundamental philosophical issues two problem area courses in which philosophical concepts are applied to contemporary problems or particular areas of human experience two history of philosophy courses and a seminar-level course in which students deal creatively with a philosophical issue.  

A total of 120 hours is needed for graduation in the philosophy curriculum. Please click here for a list of required courses. Students should consult regularly with their advisors when developing their individual program plans and selecting courses. A complete list of course offerings is in the University's current Undergraduate Catalog.  

Minor in Philosophy:

The minor in philosophy consists of 5 courses, 2 of which must be at the 300/400 level. Of the 5 courses, 1 must be taken from the Classical Core, 1 from the History of Philosophy, and 3 from the list of Philosophy electives.  All work applied toward the minor must be completed with grades of C or better, and at least 15 hours must be credits not applied toward General Education or major requirements.  

Please click here for a list of required courses. Students should consult regularly with their advisors when developing their individual program plans and selecting courses. A complete list of course offerings is in the University's current Undergraduate Catalog.