Major in Philosophy
The philosophy major requires ten courses and 30 credits.
- At least 9 of the 10 courses and 27 of the 30 credits must be at the 2000-level or above
- At least 6 of the 10 courses and 18 of the 30 credits must be at the 3000-level or above
- At least 1 of the 10 courses and 3 of the 30 credits must be at the 4000-level
Course Requirements
- Two core philosophy courses
- Two courses in Philosophical Skills
- PHIL 3001: Philosophy Writing Seminar (by end of junior year)
- Either PHIL 2501: Introduction to Logic or PHIL 4000: Symbolic Logic
- Two courses in Texts and Traditions
- Two courses in Topics
- One course in LEMMS (language, epistemology, metaphysics, mind, science)
- One course in normative philosophy
- Two electives
Integrated Writing Requirement
Nearly all courses at the 3000-level and above require substantial writing. There are various genres of philosophical writing, and different courses will call upon students to exercise their abilities in distinct genres. These genres include exposition of texts, careful reconstruction of arguments, criticism of arguments or positions, situation of arguments and views within their historical contexts, development of original theses or arguments, and so forth. Important philosophical work is done within each of these (and other) genres, and philosophy students can expect to be called upon to develop their skills in multiple genres as they progress through the major.
Advising for Majors: Declaring, Mentorship, & Study Abroad
When declaring a major in philosophy, students are required to meet with the Director of Undergraduate Studies, who is the academic advisor for all philosophy majors. Students are also encouraged to pick a philosophy faculty member of their choosing as their mentor. Majors are welcome to review their course selections with the Director of Undergraduate Studies.
Special circumstances–such as difficulties resulting from studying abroad, from double majoring,
or from late declaring–should be brought to the attention of the Director of Undergraduate Studies.
Majors planning to study abroad should contact the DUS as soon as possible to work out a plan.