2015-2016 Academic Catalog 
    
    Mar 29, 2024  
2015-2016 Academic Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Philosophy, BA


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Program Description:

As lovers of wisdom, philosophers have always contemplated life’s fundamental questions: What values make life meaningful, what is the nature of reality and knowledge, what is the best organization for society, does God exist?

The Philosophy Department offers courses in logic, ethics, epistemology, philosophy of religion, and philosophy of science. We also teach topical courses focused on major philosophers, particular historical periods (ancient, medieval, modern), and discrete philosophical topics (for example, existentialism, aesthetics, and ancient science).

By challenging students to analyze concepts clearly and evaluate arguments critically, philosophy hones reasoning skills, stimulates intellectual creativity, and makes life more interesting and rewarding. By teaching critical thinking, persuasive writing, and effective communication, philosophy also develops skills in high demand by employers.

Program Learning Outcomes:

  • Be effective writers
  • Acquire knowledge of diverse religious traditions
  • Acquire knowledge of diverse religious practices in historical context
  • Have strong critical thinking skills

Philosophy Minor

Because all disciplines require clear, critical, rigorous thinking, a minor in Philosophy is the perfect complement to any major. The Philosophy minor introduces students to the major areas of philosophical study through three area requirements. Elective coursework is flexible, allowing students to choose to concentrate advanced study in their areas of interest.

Philosophy Honors Program

Students with a GPA of 3.5 or higher in Philosophy may apply to complete an Honors project. An Honors project involves independent study with a faculty mentor. It will usually extend over two consecutive terms and earn six hours of credit upon its successful completion. The project culminates in the writing of a major research paper (25-30 pages) during the second term and an oral defense of the project with the Department faculty.

Program Requirements:


I. Wright State Core: 38 Hours


Element 1: Communication: 6 Hours


Element 2: Mathematics: 3 Hours


Element 3: Global Traditions: 6 Hours


Element 4: Arts and Humanities: 3 Hours


Element 5: Social Sciences: 6 Hours


Element 6: Natural Sciences: 8 Hours


Additional Core Courses: 6 Hours


II. Departmental Requirements: 33 Hours


Four Area Courses with at least one from each: 12 Hours


  • History of Philosophy
  • Value Theory
  • Core Curriculum

Symbolic Logic


Six Electives: 18 Hours


III. Related Requirements


IV. College Requirements: 18 Hours


Foreign Language: 12 Hours


Through 2020 level (1010, 1020, 2010, 2020) of one language:
Spanish, French, German, Greek, Latin, Chinese, Russian, Italian, Japanese, American Sign Language or other.

Methods of Inquiry


V. Electives: 35 Hours


Total: 124 Hours


Graduation Planning Strategy


The Graduation Planning Strategy (GPS) has been created to illustrate one option to complete degree requirements within a particular time frame. Students are encouraged to meet with their academic advisor to adjust this plan based on credit already earned, individual needs or curricular changes that may not be reflected in this year’s catalog.

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