For Current Students
See the sidebar to the left for further information.
Major
A major in Philosophy consists of 10 courses. Requirements are:
- PHI 244.
- One core history course from PHI 210, 213, 317.
- One value theory course designated (V).
- One course in metaphysics, epistemology, philosophy of language, or philosophy of mind designated (ME).
- PHI 498.
- Five electives.
- At least four courses besides PHI498 must be numbered 300 or higher.
- At most, one course may be numbered below 200.
The Department’s program heavily emphasizes critical thinking, logically-correct reasoning, and clear, concise writing. The writing requirement in the Philosophy major is met by completion of the normal courses required to complete the major.
Minor
A minor in Philosophy requires six Philosophy courses, which must include: PHI 244; either PHI 210, 213, or 317; and four other Philosophy electives that are approved by the chairperson or designee. At least two courses total must be numbered 300 or above. At most, one course may be numbered below 200.
Off-campus Study
The philosophy department encourages students to consider international and off-campus studies. Philosophy majors ought to consult their adviser about integrating the off-campus experience with the major requirements and selecting programs with suitable offerings in philosophy.
Majors in the Department of Philosophy have studied abroad or off-campus in the following programs in recent years: Oxford University; Cambridge University; King’s College, London; Lancaster University; Advanced Studies in England, Bath; University of Edinburgh, Scotland; Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia; Syracuse in Madrid; School for International Training in Granada; IES in Barcelona; Sweet Briar College Junior Year in Spain Program, Seville; Syracuse in Florence; University of Heidelberg; F&M Travel Course, Tohoku Gakuin University, Sendai, Japan; School for International Training in Kenya; School for Field Studies, British West Indies; SEA Semester, Woods Hole, Massachusetts; American University Washington Semester; Venture Consortium Urban Education Semester.
The Office of International & Off-campus Study helps students explore a variety of programs and complete applications, and provides guidance throughout the process.
