Undergraduate Major in Philosophy

For a Major in Philosophy

Director of Undergraduate Studies: Professor David Albert, 706 Philosophy Hall, [email protected]

Program of Study: Students considering a major in philosophy are strongly encouraged to meet with the director of undergraduate studies early in their sophomore year. All majors must consult the director of undergraduate studies each term before registering for classes in order to plan and update their individual programs of study.

Students planning to major in philosophy are advised to begin with PHIL UN1010. Beginning students are especially encouraged to take 2000-level courses, both in the history of philosophy and in systematic philosophy. These courses are typically less specialized and less narrowly focused than higher-numbered ones. More advanced students are encouraged to take 3000-level courses. The department requires that all majors take at least one Majors Seminar (PHIL UN3912). 

Courses:

At least 30 points in philosophy, chosen from courses prefixed with UN, GU, or GR, including: 

  • PHIL UN2101 or another course in the history of ancient or medieval philosophy (e.g. PHIL UN3131)
  • PHIL UN2201 or another course in the history of late medieval or early modern philosophy (e.g. PHIL UN3237)
  • PHIL UN3411 or, in exceptional cases, a more advanced course in logic
  • At least one course in either metaphysics or epistemology (e.g. PHIL UN3601, UN3960, or a related course to be chosen in consultation with the director of undergraduate studies)
  • At least one course in either ethics or social and political philosophy (e.g. PHIL UN2702, UN3701, UN3751, or a related course to be chosen in consultation with the director of undergraduate studies)
  • At least one seminar (PHIL UN3912).

*PLEASE NOTE* PHILUN1401 INTRODUCTION TO LOGIC does not count for credit towards the undergraduate major in philosophy.*

NOTE: No more than one course at the 1000-level can be counted toward the major.

NOTE: In order to enroll in one of the 4000-level courses, students must have taken at least four courses in Philosophy.

NOTE: Students may choose courses prefixed with GR only with the instructor's permission. Additionally, because these courses will be capped, students should register early.

NOTE: Special Registration requirements are in place (see below) for Majors Seminar (PHILUN3912).

PHILUN3912 registration is taken in order of the following preference:

1. Senior majors who have no taken a previous Majors Seminar

2. Junior majors who have taken 5 or more PHIL courses and have NOT taken a Majors Seminar

3. Senior majors who have taken 1 previous Majors Seminar

4. Junior majors who have taken 5 or more PHIL courses

5. Senior concentrators who have taken 5 or more PHIL courses