Philosophy Department Major & Minor Programs of Study

When you study philosophy, you are taking an exciting intellectual journey with the greatest minds that have ever lived. Majoring in philosophy is an excellent way to prepare for a professional career in law, medicine, business, education, government, or further graduate study. 

Major

Students have the opportunity to pursue a Traditional or Applied major in philosophy. Unlike the traditional major in philosophy, the major in applied philosophy must be a student's second major program of study. Students interested in majoring in philosophy must meet with the Philosophy Program Director who will advise them on a specific course of study. The following courses are required for each major:

Traditional Program:

• Introduction to Philosophy
• Critical Thinking
• Symbolic Logic
• Ethics
• Greek and Medieval Philosophy
• Modern Philosophy
• Any six electives in Philosophy

Applied Program:

• Introduction to Philosophy
• Critical Thinking
• Ethics
• Any seven electives in Philosophy that focus on the nexus between philosophy and society
• Note that the major in applied philosophy must be a student's second major program of study

Minor

For the minor in Philosophy, 18 credit hours are required, 9 of which must be earned at Marywood. Transferred credits are applied to the minor with department approval. The course of study for minors must include Introduction to Philosophy, Critical Thinking, and 12 credit hours in philosophy electives.