Philosophy, BA

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Andrew Pavelich, PhD, Coordinator
N1047, 713-221-8094

Philosophy asks the questions that we all live with, but which are not often addressed in other areas: what it means to be a person, the nature of reality, and how we should act. Philosophy is the attempt to find real answers to these questions through the use of reason, and the critical engagement with ideas from other philosophers, both contemporary and historical. Philosophy majors at UHD will get a solid grounding in the history of Philosophy, the structure of reason, and the nature of morality. Beyond that, Philosophy majors can choose from a wide range of topical philosophy classes that will allow them to pursue their own interests. In all classes students will practice careful and critical reading, discussion, and writing skills, which will set graduates up to flourish in a variety of fields, such as management, professional writing, journalism, human resources, biomedical ethics, education -and for advanced study in professional or graduate school.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates with a B.A. in Philosophy will by able to:

Explain the thoughts of philosophers and/or philosophical theories, demonstrating their context and connections to other major thinkers and theories of Philosophy.
Critically evaluate complex philosophical issues and positions with creativity and originality.
Defend their positions with well-reasoned arguments that are focused and clear, well-organized and well-supported.

Degree Requirements

To complete a BA in Philosophy, students must satisfy the “Requirements for CHSS Majors ” and fulfill the coursework listed below.

Common Core Requirements

See listing under Common Core Requirements in this catalog.

Preparatory Requirements

(Courses in this area cannot be reused from the common core)

6-8 Hours of Foreign Language:

Complete 6-8 semester credit hours in the same foreign language. Semester credit hours are contingent upon placement exams, courses taken, or transfer credit. Semester credit hours bypassed by placement must be made up in elective credits. Hours earned in excess of three semester credit hours for any foreign language course may be applied to the elective area.

Major Requirements

(Courses in this area are used to calculate the major GPA)

6 Hours in History of PHIL:

Complete

3 Hours in Logic:

3 Hours in Moral Philosophy:

Complete one of the following:

6 Hours in PHIL:

Complete 6 semester credit hours of PHIL, any level.

9 Upper-Level Hours in PHIL:

Complete 9 semester credit hours from the 3000 or 4000 level.

Capstone Writing Course:

Free Electives

Majors are required to complete a sufficient number of elective semester credit hours so that their entire coursework, including the above requirements, totals 120 semester credit hours. Upper or lower-level courses may be applied to this area, with the exceptions described under the “Requirements for CHSS Majors ” section.