Philosophy majors examine fundamental human questions such as: What can we know? What exists? What is right? They approach these questions through rigorous study, emphasizing clarity of thought and expression, careful reasoning and problem-solving, and the analysis of diverse viewpoints. These intellectual skills, combined with broad exposure to the liberal arts, are highly valued by the business community and by schools providing graduate training in law, medicine and other disciplines. Philosophy majors also will take courses in a broad range of business subjects, including finance, accounting, statistics and strategy. By combining skills in critical thinking with business study, these students gain a distinct advantage in the job market.
While acquainting students with philosophy’s rich history, the major emphasizes the application of philosophical methods to contemporary problems, especially in ethics. The department regularly offers courses in environmental ethics, health care ethics, and business ethics. Majors will have a chance to broaden their knowledge of ethical issues in business by close engagement with the university’s nationally recognized Hoffman Center for Business Ethics.
In addition to the specific major requirements described below, students must also complete all designated requirements in Foundations for Success, Contexts & Perspectives in the Arts & Sciences, Business Dynamics, Communication Intensive coursework, and the additional degree requirements for Arts & Sciences majors (including the Modern Language requirement). Details can be found in the Degree Requirements section of the catalogue, including the Overview and the Arts & Sciences Majors tabs.
Course | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
Required Courses | ||
Metaphysics and Epistemology – Choose one: | 3 | |
Theories of Knowledge | ||
Theories of Reality | ||
Consciousness and Experience | ||
Other Minds | ||
Perception and Perspectives | ||
Value Theory – Choose one: | 3 | |
PH 310 | ||
Social Philosophy | ||
Liberty, Morality and Law | ||
Feminist Theory | ||
Human Rights and Global Governance | ||
Applied Ethics – Choose one: | 3 | |
Business Ethics: Corporate Social Responsibility | ||
Business Ethics: Philosophy of Work | ||
Business Ethics: International Business Ethics | ||
Healthcare Ethics | ||
Special Problems in Business and Professional Ethics | ||
Environmental Ethics | ||
Disability, Values & Society | ||
Sports, Games & Values | ||
Technology and Values | ||
Four PH electives not otherwise required | 12 | |
PH elective not otherwise required or an elective from any other department, with permission from PH major advisor. | 3 | |
Total Credits | 24 |