Dec 26, 2024

2024-2025 Undergraduate Catalog

Philosophy, B.A.

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The philosophy major serves the interests of a wide range of students seeking the skills and understanding appropriate to a philosophical perspective on issues of concern to them. These issues range from specific topics in biomedical ethics to highly abstract issues about knowledge, reality, religion, and morality. The major requires work in the various areas of philosophic study: logic, history of philosophy, normative philosophy, and metaphysics and epistemology. Because of its emphasis on careful reading, conceptual thinking, and well-reasoned writing, the major provides excellent training for a variety of careers, including law and business as well as teaching.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the baccalaureate degree, students in philosophy are expected to:

Read and understand sophisticated philosophical texts;
Critically evaluate philosophical arguments;
Construct and defend philosophical arguments in well-organized, clear, and concise prose;
Demonstrate mastery of basic philosophical concepts and methods, both orally and in writing;
Apply critical-thinking and argument-evaluation skills to the philosophical issues and arguments that present themselves in everyday life;
Engage in rational, civil discourse about complex and emotionally laden topics in a manner that is respectful of others.

Grade C or better required in PHIL courses used to satisfy requirements of the major.

Those who think they might want to apply to graduate school in philosophy should consult with the philosophy advisor as early as possible about additional course recommendations.

The philosophy department believes that the prescribed major provides a solid grounding in philosophy, useful for students with widely varied interests. However, the department also recognizes that some students may be in special circumstances which warrant deviation from the requirements as specified on the junior audit. The requirements can be tailored to meet the needs of individual students in such cases. Early consultation with the undergraduate advisor is essential.

BG Perspective (BGP) Requirements

Must complete at least 1 course in each of the following:

English Composition and Oral Communication
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Quantitative Literacy
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Must Complete at least 2 courses in each of the following:

Humanities and the Arts
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Natural Sciences - at least one Lab Science required
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Social and Behavioral Sciences
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Complete total required BGP credit hours by selecting courses from any of the above categories:

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University Requirements

Designated courses in Humanities and the Arts and the Social and Behavioral Sciences domains may be used to fulfill both the BGP requirement and one of the following university requirements:

Cultural Diversity in the US ____________
International Perspective ____________

Composition Requirement:
WRIT 1120

Total BGP Credits: Must be at least 36

Arts & Sciences Requirements (WLC)

World Languages and Cultures (_ yrs of HS___)

Consult the Undergraduate Catalog or the Arts and Sciences Student Handbook regarding approved course options in the different language and culture areas.
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________1020_________________   ________
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Lab Science

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Multidisciplinary Component

Select from approved offerings, in consultation with an advisor and a faculty mentor. Four courses total, each with a different subject prefix. At least two courses at 3000/4000 level. Courses applied to the Arts & Sciences MDC may not be used to fulfill other Arts and Sciences degree requirements, nor may they be used to fulfill major, minor, BGP or other program requirements.
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Major Requirements

Minor required*

15 additional Philosophy hours approved by your Faculty Advisor (at least 2 courses overall in PHIL. must be at 4000 level and an additional 3 courses must be at either the 3000 or 4000 level).

2 courses from:

Total Hours: 33

* Only courses with C or better will count.

Minor Requirements

(usually 20 hours, no courses in PHIL may be used)

Electives and Non-Credit Courses

For Graduation You Will Need:

122 credit hours minimum.
Minimum GPA 2.00.
At least 30 credit hours of BGSU course work.
40 credit hours at the 3000/4000 level.
Completion of all degree requirements, including the BG Perspective Core.
A major, and if required, a minor, specialization or emphasis.

Any substitution or waiver of courses required for your major or minor program must originate in the department/school offering the major or minor and must be approved by the College Office.

To ensure a timely graduation, see a College Advisor during the semester prior to your intended graduation.

Remember to complete an Application for Graduation by the end of the second week of classes during the fall semester or spring regular session, or by the end of the first week of the summer semester. For the specific dates, check your DARS. You may log onto MyBGSU to complete the online application. After the deadlines, you will need to complete an application in person in the College Office.