Description
Philosophy has been central to higher education since the inception of the university in the Middle Ages, is the original source of many of the other rational endeavors to know the world, and remains the cornerstone of Catholic education. Philosophy promotes clear thinking. It teaches students to think analytically, to write and speak clearly and persuasively, to evaluate evidence, to construct and present sound arguments for their viewpoints, and to recognize flaws in opposing arguments—skills essential to success in any profession or career. Philosophy helps to create responsible citizens. It allows students to see through cultural and intellectual fads, protects them from the often empty posturing of politicians, defends them from the slippery claims of advertisers and salespeople, insulates them from the often unfounded assertions of media pundits and commentators, and shields them from foolish opinions and everyday nonsense. Philosophy contributes to our becoming more fully human. It broadens the range of things that students can understand and enjoy, enhances their expressive powers, contributes to their self-knowledge, foresight, and sense of direction in life, nurtures individuality and self-esteem, and brings them into contact with the most important and fundamental human questions about reality, knowledge, morality, and all other aspects of the human experience. The Department of Philosophy embodies the University's commitment to its students. We do this by creating an academic environment that encourages students to approach fundamental questions with an attitude of open and disciplined reflection, that evokes a love for the intellectual life, and promotes a deeper appreciation of our civilization, which has been influenced by philosophy at all levels.
Degree Requirements
Philosophy Major 30 cr.
| Required (6 Credits) |
| | | cr. |
| PHL 100 | Introduction to Philosophy | | 3 |
| PHL 201 | Ethics | | 3 |
| One of the following courses in logic: 3 Credits |
| | | cr. |
| PHL 150 | Introduction to Logic OR | | 3 |
| PHL 250 | Symbolic Logic | | 3 |
| Three of the following courses in the history of philosophy: 9 Credits |
| | | cr. |
| PHL 306 | Greek Philosophy | | 3 |
| PHL 307 | Medieval Philosophy | | 3 |
| PHL 308 | Modern Philosophy | | 3 |
| PHL 441 | Contemporary Philosophy | | 3 |
| One of the following courses in the major areas of philosophy: 3 Credits |
| | | cr. |
| PHL 406 | Metaphysics | | 3 |
| PHL 407 | Epistemology | | 3 |
Plus 3 elective courses in philosophy:
PHL 100 is a prerequisite for all other philosophy courses except for PHL 140 and 150, which may be taken without prior coursework in philosophy. Students planning to do graduate study in philosophy are strongly urged to take more courses than the required 30 hours. The philosophy faculty will work with students to select additional courses that will help prepare them for graduate work in the discipline.
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