Philosophy is the oldest, broadest, and most fundamental form of inquiry. Some philosophical questions have to do with the understanding of ourselves and whatever else there may be. Others focus upon the nature of different forms of knowledge and experience, and upon ethical issues and problems of value. The study of philosophy is one of the most important elements in a good liberal education. It also improves one's ability to think clearly, and to construct, analyze, and criticize arguments of any kind. The major and minor are sponsored by the Department of Philosophy.

MAJOR IN SCIENCES AND LETTERS CURRICULUM

E-mail: philosophy@illinois.edu.

Degree title: Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts and Sciences. Minimum hours required for graduation: 120 hours

Minimum required major and supporting course work normally equates to 44 hours including at least 32 hours of Philosophy courses.

General education: The LAS General Education requirements are set up so students automatically complete the Campus General Education requirements.

Departmental distinction: Eligibility for distinction may be pursued by either: (1) the thesis option, which requires at least 35 hours of philosophy courses (including 5 courses at the 300- or 400-level), a grade point average of 3.0 in all philosophy courses, and writing a thesis; or (2) the course work option, which requires 38 hours of philosohy (including 8 advanced courses) and a 3.5 grade point average in all philosophy courses. For further information, inquire in the department office.

Hours Requirements

32     Total Hours in Philosophy
  20   Required Philosophy Courses1
    3 PHIL 202 - Symbolic Logic
    4 PHIL 203 - Ancient Philosophy
    4 PHIL 206 - Early Modern Philosophy
    3 PHIL 421 - Ethical Theories
    3 At least one course in Epistemology or Metaphysics chosen from the following:
        PHIL 426 - Metaphysics
        PHIL 430 - Theory of Knowledge
    3 PHIL 499 - Capstone Seminar
  12   At least 12 additional hours of course work in philosophy, with 9 of those hours being above the 100-level (including at least two 300- or 400-level courses).
12     Cognate or minor or double major
      A student may select either of two types of programs of supporting course work and should work out a specific program of the type chosen with the help and approval of a department adviser.
      Twelve hours minimum. Select from:
        Option I: in another discipline. Courses normally beyond the 100 level in one other discipline. Most approved minors satisfy this requirement. A second major may also be used to satisfy this requirement.
      or
        Option II: special program of study built around a unifying theme or topic. Course work outside philosophy in one or more other discipline(s), normally beyond the 100 level.
44     Total Hours for Major
1. If possible, students should take these courses prior to the senior year. Substitutions may be made only with the approval of the chair of the department.

Twelve hours of 300- and 400-level courses in the major must be taken on this campus.

All foreign language requirements must be satisfied.

A Major Plan of Study Form must be completed and submitted to the LAS Student Affairs Office before the end of the fifth semester (60-75 hours). Please see your adviser.

PHIL Major Sample Sequence

For further information, inquire in the department office, 200 Gregory Hall.