Philosophy

About the Program

The Philosophy program provides students with the tools necessary to examine human systems of value, knowledge, and belief. Classes place a huge importance on argumentation and cultivating reasoning skills, as well as learning how to translate them into a successful and meaningful career.

What You'll Learn

• Become an effective, analytical, and critical thinker.
• Learn how to communicate clear arguments orally and in writing.
• Specialize in either a theoretical or applied field within philosophy.
• Produce an original piece of scholarship.
• Become more reflective of the human condition and the effect of globalization and diversity.

• Gain familiarity with philosophy and its central issues.
• Think and write in the form and by the method proper to the discipline of philosophy, (i.e., rational argumentation in support of a thesis).
• Understand the relevance of philosophical thinking to one’s own life and public policies and practices.

Plan of Study

You will start by taking lower-division courses where you will explore the history of philosophy and its ethical consequences. As you progress through the program, you will be required to take research seminars for your senior thesis. You’ll also have the opportunity to customize your experience by choosing an area of concentration.

Concentrations

Bachelor of Arts Degree in Philosophy

Requires 6 credit hours from upper-level coursework in complementary disciplines such as history, psychology, and sociology.

Bachelor of Science Degree in Philosophy

Requires 8 credit hours of a laboratory science as approved by the student’s advisor.

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Sample Courses

Critical Thinking

In this course, you will practice the skills involved in clear thinking and intelligent reading, with an emphasis is placed on sound decision-making in everyday life. You will learn how to identify fallacies in argumentation and master the fundamentals of deductive logic.

Philosophy of Religion

In this course, you will explore philosophical issues in religion, such as the nature of God, the problem of evil, the prospect of immortality, and more. Particular attention is paid to the relationship between science, monotheism, and theologies to delve into the multiple interpretations of religion.

Career Opportunities

The development of skills that will translate to practical job opportunities makes philosophy is an excellent choice for students who want to attend medical, graduate, and law school. Whether you want to understand the evolution of knowledge or learn how to think critically and argue persuasively, the Philosophy program will meet your needs.

Potential Careers

Students are prepared for opportunities in the fields of law, business, publishing, medicine, education, and management, as well as work with non-profit organizations. Students may also choose to further their studies through graduate school.

Student Success

Past students have continued their studies at many prestigious institutions such as the London School of Economics, Binghamton University, Cornell University, the University of Arizona, and Tufts University.

Other Philosophy Programs

Westminster College also offers an academic minor for those who want to add a critical thinking component to their chosen area of study.

Learn More About the Philosophy Program

Check Out the Philosophy Department