Philosophy Department
The Department of Philosophy seeks to acquaint students with various philosophical traditions, to present the chief philosophic problems and types of philosophy, and to help students cultivate the intellectual, civic, and moral virtues of the discipline of philosophy as well as the art and skill of philosophical analysis. The department seeks to serve those students who intend to pursue graduate studies, those pursuing interdisciplinary career programs, and those who simply desire to understand human reflective traditions in order to enlarge their own horizon of awareness.
Majors are educated in the liberal arts tradition and are carefully counseled to take courses in all areas of the College. Majors in the bioethics emphasis are educated in the liberal arts tradition, with a particular focus on the interface between philosophy and the health professions. 100- and 200-level courses are open to all students. 300-level courses are open to upper-division students, though prior lower-division coursework is recommended. 400-level courses generally require instructor approval. Courses in a foreign language are recommended.