A standard college preparation track in high school is quite adequate, though any studies that give practice in critical thinking and analysis would provide superior preparation. Students with a strong interest in logic will find additional math courses especially worthwhile. Also highly useful are English and social studies courses, especially when they emphasize writing as well as the close, critical study of texts and ideas. We also have an internship program that allows promising undergraduates to gain some exposure to and valuable experience in guided college teaching. Many students take advantage of IU s many overseas study programs to spend a summer, a semester, or a year abroad.
Outstanding students can also choose to enter the department s honors program.
Part of the program involves writing a senior thesis, which is an excellent way for students to improve their analytic and writing skills. In addition to some well-known professors of philosophy and a number of prominent CEOs, perhaps the most illustrious alumnus is the late Oscar Ewing, head of the national Democratic Party under President Franklin D. Roosevelt.