The study of academic philosophy is one of two branches in the Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies at YSU. A Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in philosophy is available for students who plan to enter the field of philosophy, law, professional or medical ethics, the ministry, or any other study requiring a strong liberal arts background.
The major consists of 30 semester hours, including PHIL 2600 (Intro.), 2619 (Intro. Logic), 3700 (Ancient) OR 3705 (20th Century), 3702 (Modern), 3711 (General Ethics) OR 3780 (Theories of Knowledge), 4820 (Seminar), and 4861 (Senior Capstone Project).
A minor in Philosophy or in Professional Ethics may also be selected from among basic and advanced courses, complementing a wide variety of other majors. Contact the Department Secretary for specific course information.
The major in Philosophy consists in 30 semester hours, as follows:
Students majoring in philosophy must take the following required courses:
1. 2600: Introduction to Philosophy
2. 2619: Introduction to Logic
3. Either 3700: History of Ancient Philosophy or 3705: 20th Century Philosophy
4. 3702: History of Modern Philosophy
5. Either 3711: General Ethics or 3780: Theories of Knowledge
6. 4820: Seminar in Philosophy
7. 4861: Senior Capstone Project
In addition, students must complete the remaining number of hours from courses above not taken or from among the following courses:
2609: Technology and Human Values
2616: Character and Virtue
2625: Introduction to Professional Ethics
2630: Critical Thinking
3706: Philosophy in America
3708: Social and Political Philosophy
3709: Feminist Philosophy
3712: Philosophy of religion
3714: Language and Mind
3715: Philosophy of Science
3719: Symbolic Logic
3723: Law and Criminal Justice Ethics
3725: Biomedical Ethics
3727: Environmental Ethics
3728: Engineering Ethics
3730: Metaphysics
3735: Ethics and Scientific Research
3760: Ethics of War and Peace
4870: Internship in Ethical Practice
Individualized Curriculum Program:
Students seeking more specialization in a learning program may investigate and apply for the Individualized Curriculum Program. This program enables interested students to design the course of study best suited to their particular background and career goals and thereby to create alternative pathways to currently offered degrees.