The Philosophy Major
The major consists of a total of 10 courses (30 credit hours). Completion of the major typically occurs within 3 years. The components are:
two introductory-level courses (6 credits):
PHIL 101: Intro to Philosophy (or PHIL 111: Honors Intro)
PHIL 102: Contemporary Ethical Problems
PHIL 201: Ethics
PHIL 205: Logic
two history of philosophy courses (6 credits):
PHIL 202: History of Philosophy – Ancient and Medieval
PHIL 203: History of Modern Philosophy
five 300–400-level courses (15 credits); and
one 400-level capstone seminar (3 credits).
Apart from the historical component of the program, which is designed to provide students with a knowledge of historically influential figures such as Plato, Aristotle, Rene Descartes, and David Hume, there is a wide range of choice within the major.
Courses such as Existentialism, Philosophy of Religion, and The Meaning of Life are regularly offered, as are a number of courses dealing with contemporary ethical problems, such as Biomedical Ethics and Philosophy and the Environment.
The department values multicultural perspectives and includes them in most courses in the curriculum. Also, a course in Asian and African Philosophies is offered, as is a course called Philosophy and Women.
Catalog Requirements for Philosophy Programs
Philosophy Plus a Second Major
Since the philosophy major is not as directly tied to specific careers as many other majors, philosophy is optimal for combining with a second major. In this way, the intellectual and personal values that make philosophy so attractive can be pursued while at the same time enhancing one’s marketability in the workplace. Philosophy develops analytic, evaluative, and communication skills that are desirable in virtually all careers. For the same reasons, a minor in philosophy is a sound complement for any major.
The Philosophy Minor
A minor in philosophy consists of 18 credit hours. The components are:
two introductory-level courses (6 credits)
three 300-400-level courses (9 credits)
one other philosophy course (3 credits)
Ready to declare Philosphy as your major or minor?
Please make an appointment with the chair of the department.
African American Studies minor
Law & Society major (with criminal justice and legal studies concentrations)
Criminal Justice major (collaborative program with Allegany College of Maryland)
Women's Studies minor