The program leading to an undergraduate degree in philosophy at Utah State University is designed to provide students with an understanding of the origin and nature of philosophical issues, the development of these issues and the debates surrounding them, as well as their implications for various fields of study. Through the investigation of philosophical problems related to the self, others, God and reality, students have the opportunity to increase their self-understanding as well as their understanding of the world about them, and to better their abilities at analyzing divergent issues and ideas. Coursework in the program addresses a broad range of philosophers, issues and methodologies. Areas of study include logic, metaphysics, epistemology, history of philosophy, ethics, applied ethics, and the philosophy of religion.
Opportunities exist in class for discussion and expression of individual perceptions and ideas.
Students are encouraged to broaden their analytical abilities through methods of critique and argumentation. The study of philosophy is particularly valuable for offering the opportunity to develop clear and consistent modes of thought, by means of systematic analysis and examination of the content and structure of arguments. All philosophy majors are encouraged to earn a B.A. degree by completing two years of study in a foreign language. In addition to broadening one s social and cultural awareness, the study of a foreign language complements the study of philosophy by increasing one s understanding of the nature of language in general and the ability to use language for argumentation and analysis.