The philosophy major consists of a minimum of 26 credit hours, at least two of which must be at the 300-level or higher. No more than two courses at the 100-level may count toward the major. Students must also complete any two of the following three History of Philosophy courses:
A 2-credit Departmental Thesis is also required.
Students majoring in philosophy will design a program of courses with the assistance of a philosophy faculty advisor based on the student’s passions, academic needs, and future plans. A second major is recommended to complement the philosophy major. Moreover, students are strongly encouraged to design and execute a summative Independent Study and/or Departmental Thesis to explore areas of individual interest and to combine perspectives and methodologies in philosophy with those belonging to a second major area of study.
Students majoring in philosophy who intend to pursue graduate study in philosophy are advised to complete more than the minimum credit hours required for the major. In addition, these students are advised to complete coursework in German or French through the Intermediate level.
Graduating Seniors must complete a Learning Statement during their final semester at BW as a condition of graduating. The Learning Statement can be found on the Philosophy Majors and Minors Blackboard Organization. Students are asked to provide as honest an assessment of their experience with the major as possible to ensure the continuous improvement of the program. The feedback provided by students is anonymous.
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