Major in Philosophy

The philosophy major stresses a firm grounding in both the history and the various fields of philosophy. Because of the ways in which the study of philosophy complements other disciplines, students who major in philosophy are strongly encouraged to minor (or double major)  in another discipline and to explore other areas of study offered by the university.  The Philosophy Department welcomes such combined interests, convinced that majors who develop their philosophical interests by more intensive study will have deeper understanding of the areas of greatest interest to them.

Philosophy majors interested in language, logic and communication, for example, might explore a minor in journalism and mass communication or in computer science.  Majors who are interested in religion and politics might minor in comparative religion or in political science.  Majors interested in questions about human behavior, consciousness or perception might minor in psychology.  Majors interested in development, business ethics or corporate responsibility might minor in business administration. Whatever a student’s interest in philosophy, courses that deepen that interest from other disciplines will significantly enhance philosophical insight.

Declared majors must enroll in a minimum of 6 credit hours of philosophy every semester. Exception to the six credit per semester minimum require written permission from the department.  To major in philosophy, students must have taken philosophy 220 course with not less than a "B" grade.  In addition, prospective majors must have a minimum GPA of 2.4.

Minor in Philosophy

The minor in philosophy introduces students to the specific forms of philosophical questioning and to philosophical methods and modes of thought. It offers an opportunity for students to learn about the unique contribution philosophical traditions have made to civilization and to explore challenging philosophical questions in subjects of particular interest.  The philosophy minor also allows students to explore the close relationship philosophy has with the social sciences, the arts and the natural sciences, and thus the philosophy minor is valuable for students in any field of study.