Grappling with major primary texts from the history of philosophy is an important emphasis of the program, for philosophy today is the continuation of a conversation that extends at least back to the Ancient Greeks and the Vedic scriptures. There is also an emphasis on understanding how philosophy bears on issues of contemporary personal, intellectual, and social concern. All philosophy courses focus on the skills of critical reading, analytical thinking, and clear and cogent speaking and writing. Since there are philosophical dimensions to every discipline, interdisciplinary studies are common among philosophy faculty and students. Many philosophy students opt for a second major to combine with philosophy.
Philosophy also combines well with virtually any minor.
Majors must take a total of ten philosophy courses. Please note that a single course can satisfy multiple requirements for the major and that courses used to satisfy major requirements may also be used to satisfy general education requirements.