PLO 1: Formulate an understanding of the nature, purpose, and importance of the philosophical enterprise in writing and thereby engage personally in the activity of philosophizing.
PLO 2: Demonstrate respect both for reason as a defining feature of living as well as for truth and its pursuit.
PLO 3: Demonstrate critical thinking when considering issues in depth, when relating parts and wholes, when examining and assessing influential positions, when understanding the world of others, and when formulating principles for responsible actions.
PLO 4: Discuss major philosophical questions, which are none other than the fundamental questions confronting human beings as such, through the study of the views of philosophers belonging to many traditions.
PLO 5: Formulate understanding of primary texts from the history of philosophy, and the derived nourishment from them for one's own being.

The Philosophy curriculum offers students a broad exploration of fundamental philosophical questions about knowledge, ethics, human nature, politics, science, and culture. Students begin with foundational courses such as Basic Problems in Philosophy and Logic and Argumentation, which introduce core philosophical concepts and develop strong analytical and reasoning skills. Courses such as Human Nature, Theories of Knowledge, Utilitarianism, Happiness and Pleasure, and The Good Life examine major ethical and philosophical debates about how people understand themselves and how they should live.

Students also explore the historical development of philosophical thought through courses including Ancient Greek Philosophy, Early Modern Philosophy, Renaissance Philosophy, 19th-Century Philosophy, Medieval Philosophy, and Twentieth-Century Philosophy. Additional courses focus on influential philosophers and traditions, such as Descartes, Existentialism, American Philosophy, and Latin American Philosophy. Specialized courses—including Political Philosophy, Authority and Law, Business Ethics, Medical Ethics, Philosophy of Science, Art and Aesthetics, and Philosophy and Literature—allow students to apply philosophical thinking to contemporary issues in society, culture, and professional life. Advanced opportunities such as Special Topics in Philosophy and Independent Study in Philosophy enable students to pursue deeper research in areas of personal interest.

⚖️ Law & Legal Services

You will develop strong reasoning and argumentation skills that prepare you for careers in law, legal research, public policy, or legal consulting.

🏥 Medicine & Health Professions

You will apply ethical reasoning and analytical thinking to careers in medicine, healthcare administration, and medical ethics.

💼 Business, Consulting & Management

You will use problem-solving and strategic thinking skills in areas such as business leadership, consulting, entrepreneurship, and corporate management.

📰 Journalism, Writing & Media

You will analyze complex topics and communicate ideas clearly in careers related to journalism, publishing, writing, and media analysis.

🏛️ Government & Public Policy

You will evaluate social and political issues and contribute to decision-making in government, public administration, and policy development.

🎓 Graduate & Professional Study

You will build a strong foundation for advanced study in philosophy, law, public policy, business, education, theology, or other humanities and social science fields.