Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy

Philosophy is the creative and critical reflection on enduring questions concerning the nature of the world and our place in it. For example, philosophy asks metaphysical questions about what exists, epistemic questions about what we can claim to know, and ethical questions about the nature of the good life and right action. In addition, philosophy involves the study and practice of good reasoning and clear thinking, skills that are essential to any discipline or profession.

Admission Requirements Graduation Requirements
Core Courses
PHIL A101Introduction to Logic3
PHIL A201Introduction to Philosophy3
PHIL A211Ancient and Medieval Philosophy3
PHIL A212Early Modern Philosophy3
PHIL A301Ethics3
PHIL A311Truth and Reality3
PHIL A309Mind and Machines3
or PHIL A321 God, Self, and the Afterlife
PHIL A350Contemporary Social and Political Philosophy3
or PHIL A406 Philosophy of Law
Mastery Course
PHIL A490Topics in Contemporary Philosophy3
Electives
Complete 9 additional upper-division credits from the department's course offerings. 9
Total36

A minimum of 120 credits is required for the degree, of which 39 credits must be upper-division. 

Honors in Philosophy

The Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy recognizes distinguished achievement by conferring programmatic honors in philosophy. In order to receive honors in philosophy, a student must meet the following requirements:

  • Meet the requirements for a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy;
  • Meet the requirements for Graduation with Honors as outlined in the catalog;
  • Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.75 in courses specific to the philosophy major;
  • Complete PHIL A498 with a grade of A, and a recommendation for departmental honors from the student's faculty committee for this course;
  • Notify the chair in writing on or before date on which the Application for Graduation is filed with the Office of the Registrar of the intention to graduate with departmental honors.