Philosophy Courses Required
Because we honor Saint Francis of Assisi, these studies emphasize simplicity, not technicalities. We respect faith while probing for understanding. We celebrate reasoning while keeping an honest, humble, and humorous attitude toward the limitations of our minds. We maintain a positive vision of human nature, a profound respect for the background and destiny of each person, and the respect for all living things which Saint Francis of Assisi taught us.
Students who major in philosophy often combine their study with another major in religious studies, psychology, history, political science, or some other field. You can expect philosophy to be a natural second-major, or minor that easily interlocks with any other discipline.
Bachelor of Arts In Philosophy
Major Requirements
Philosophy 205, 300, 301, 302, 309, 320 and at least one of 307, 308, 312, 313 or 317. Also required is at least one 400 level course, and two additional philosophy electives. A student must elect to enroll in Philosophy 460 (3 credits) or sit for a comjprehensive examination (0 credits).
Philosophy majors determine their sequence of courses together with an advisor from the philosophy program.
Self-Designed Major Requirements
We encourage self-designed programs of study, which combine some of the philosophy major requirements with requirements of another major. These programs lead to a degree such as Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Religious Studies, Economics and Philosophy, Philosophy and Political Science.
Minor in Philosophy Requirements
Four Philosophy courses besides those required by the core program (Philosophy 205 and an elective in Philosophy). We recommend Philosophy, 300, 301, 302, and 405 or 406 or 407.
Ethics Minor
The ethics minor prepares students to evaluate their own personal value systems and the methods they use to address critical ethical and moral decisions. The Ethics program is designed to provide a comprehensive introduction to ethical methods and the application of moral decision-making to the complex ethical problems facing humanity.
1. Introductory experiences (Philosophy 205 and Religious Studies 205) are designed to assist students in answering critical ethical issues of life.
2. Foundation experiences (Philosophy 309 and Religious Studies 311) provide students with a relevant body of ethical knowledge including understanding of the principles and methodologies used in ethical and moral decision-making.
3. Advanced and applied ethics courses (Philosophy 308 and Religious Studies 308, Philosophy 307, 312, 313, and 317) offer students the opportunity to integrate their general education courses with their professional experience by focusing on the ethical and moral values across both core and professional curricula.
4. Senior-level capstone experiences (Philosophy 460, 501) provide students with a range of opportunities to explore ethical issues raised by diverse academic disciplines and professional situations.
Minor in Ethics Requirements