Philosophy, B.A.

Print Degree Planner (opens a new window) |

At-a-Glance

Minimum hours required for major: 32, including 16 hours of core courses in logic and the history of philosophy, PHL 491 (4 hours) and 12 hours of electives, as described below

Minimum hours required for minor: 16 credit hours selected from courses eligible to count for the major

Advising: Designated faculty adviser; phone 216-687-3900.

Philosophy addresses fundamental questions about human knowledge and existence from constructive and critical perspectives. Students examine important historical and contemporary theories concerning ethics, social justice, reality and the nature and extent of knowledge. Logic is also central to philosophy, since the critical evaluation of the reasons given for ideas is as important as the study of the ideas themselves. For this reason, philosophy classes are well known for the presentation of philosophical problems and issues in a manner that stimulates questions, discussion, and a general appreciation for the pursuit of truth.

A philosophy major or minor is excellent preparation for fields such as law and business, which rely on skills of critical thinking, as well as for fields such as medicine and social work, where practitioners face ethical dilemmas in their work. Though useful in many careers, the study of philosophy can be expected to enrich a person’s life beyond the rewards of the marketplace, through a deeper understanding of important beliefs and their foundations.

A minimum total number of 128 credit hours are required for every student in the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences. All degree seeking, CLASS students must complete a specific number of General Education (GenEd) requirements which are comprised of University and College requirements. This is in addition to the credits for their major field of study. Students are responsible for ensuring the appropriate selection of courses to satisfy GenEd requirements. Students are highly encouraged to consult with both their general education advisor and faculty advisor regarding the applicability of selected courses each semester. A comprehensive description of Cleveland State University’s General Education Requirements for undergraduate students is available online at http://www.csuohio.edu/academic/gened/summarytable.html.

Major-Field Requirements

All students should contact the philosophy undergraduate advisor (687-3900) for the most current major requirements.

1. Core Courses:

16 credits;

2. Electives:

12 credits, no more than 4 credits below the 300 level.

3. Variable topics course

A variable topics course which fulfills the capstone requirement in philosophy.

PHL 491 - Senior Seminar in Philosophy

4. GPA

The average GPA for all Philosophy courses must be a C (2.0) or better.

Ethics Concentration

Philosophy majors with an interest in ethics may declare a major in philosophy with a concentration in ethics. Students pursuing this program take core courses in the fundamentals of philosophy and ethics. Additional electives must include one course in the study of values and conduct, such as the philosophy of art, religion, law, or social and political philosophy. A major in philosophy with a concentration in ethics is excellent preparation for advanced study in ethics, law, public administration, social work, and other fields in which ethical dilemmas arise amidst unresolved conflicts.