Philosophy, BA

Philosophy is the systematic and critical inquiry into thinking and the nature of existence. As a practice, philosophy teaches analytical and critical thinking, develops oral and written communication skills, and contributes to interdisciplinary understanding. Philosophy attempts to answer perennial questions about values, human existence, and the nature of reality. Skills developed in this inquiry help philosophy students excel in careers in law, medicine, management, education, government, writing, computer science, psychology, sociology, and ministry among many others.

General Information

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Philosophy requires the following:

• A minimum of 30 credit hours of PHIL course work. At least 21 of those hours must be upper division (courses numbered 3000 or higher).
• A grade of C or better in courses applied to the major.
• A minimum 2.0 GPA must be maintained in all PHIL course work.
• No more than 60 credit hours of PHIL course work may apply to the bachelor’s degree.

Additional course work is required to complete the Philosophy, BA degree. Please see the advising guide on the Academic Advising website for more information.

Learning Outcomes

• Be able to display capacities for and skills in critical thinking
• Be able to write and orally express clear, logical, and grammatically correct philosophical arguments
• Be able to display detailed knowledge of the current literature or historical background of a philosophical problem
• Be able to demonstrate research skills in locating and using resources and extending inquiry on philosophical questions