Philosophy, B.A.

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Philosophy (love of wisdom) explores fundamental issues that have intrigued and perplexed human beings for millennia, including the nature of reality, human knowledge and truth, mind and personal identity, and the application of ethical principles to moral problems.

The study of philosophy fosters the ability to think critically, to identify and analyze complex problems, to use higher-order reasoning skills through the consistent application of deductive and inductive logical principles, to comprehend multiple perspectives on a specific topic, to communicate effectively and persuasively, and to formulate solutions and evaluate possible outcomes on a wide range of subjects.

Students of philosophy learn the value of living an examined life, not only by studying the great thinkers of the past, but also by articulating and defending their own carefully formulated ideas.

The major in philosophy consists of 36 semester hours with 27 hours of advanced coursework. Furthermore, all students majoring in philosophy are required to complete nine hours of writing-enhanced coursework.

1. University Core Curriculum Requirements

See the College of Liberal and Applied Arts Bachelor of Arts for Liberal and Applied Arts, B.A. requirements for University Core Curriculum course listing.

2. Foundation of Knowledge

See the College of Liberal and Applied Arts Bachelor of Arts for Liberal and Applied Arts, B.A. requirements for Foundation of Knowledge course listing.

3. Program Courses

Required Courses

PHI 153 - Introduction to Philosophy Credit(s): 3
PHI 163 - Introduction to Logic Credit(s): 3
PHI 223 - Introduction to Ethics Credit(s): 3
PHI 310 - Classical Philosophy Credit(s): 3
PHI 311 - Modern Philosophy Credit(s): 3
PHI 323 - Ethical Theory Credit(s): 3
PHI 363 - Symbolic Logic Credit(s): 3
PHI 490 - Advanced Studies in Philosophy Credit(s): 3

Philosophy Electives

Twelve hours from:

PHI 333 - Philosophy in Science Fiction Credit(s): 3
PHI 350 - Medical Ethics Credit(s): 3
PHI 360 - Philosophy of Religion Credit(s): 3
PHI 380 - Science vs. Religion Credit(s): 3
PHI 390 - Special Topics in Philosophy Credit(s): 3
PHI 400 - Philosophical Issues in World Religions Credit(s): 3
PHI 422 - Environmental Ethics Credit(s): 3
PHI 475 - Independent Study: Philosophy Credit(s): 1-3
PHI 480 - Philosophy in Media Credit(s): 3
PHI 482 - Ethics, Technology and Society Credit(s): 3
PHI 490 - Advanced Studies in Philosophy Credit(s): 3
With approval of division director, the following courses also may be used to fulfill three to six hours of the major:
PSC 335 - Justice, Virtue and the Common Good Credit(s): 3
PSC 336 - Power, Liberty and Progress Credit(s): 3

4. Additional Degree Requirements

See the College of Liberal and Applied Arts Bachelor of Arts for Liberal and Applied Arts, B.A. requirements for additional degree requirements. To be discussed with advisor.

5. Hours needed to total 120

To be discussed with advisor.