Students studying philosophy develop a balanced mix of conceptual creativity and high-level critical thinking, writing, and problem-solving skills.
B.A. Philosophy Major
Through Valpo’s philosophy major, students examine issues fundamental to all fields of inquiry — in dialogue with the great thinkers of both Western and non-Western civilizations.
The department recommends specific plans of study for those preparing for entrance into law school, seminary, or graduate study in philosophy. Majors who are preparing for graduate study in philosophy are advised to complete a minimum of 36 credit hours of philosophy
PHIL 285 History of 20th Century Anglo-American Philosophy
PHIL 286 History of 20th Century European Philosophy
3 credits
PHIL 401
Comprehensive Exam
1 credit
PHIL 425
Advanced Philosophical Topics
3 credits
PHIL 450
Philosophy Seminar
3 credits
PHIL 475
Advanced History of Philosophy
3 credits
One additional 100-level (or higher) Philosophy course
3 credits
One additional 200- or 300-level Philosophy course
3 credits
Two additional 300-level Philosophy courses
6 credits
TOTAL
34 credits
Philosophy Minors
The philosophy department offers several minors for students with varying interests and professional ambitions. All minors in the philosophy department require at least 18 credits.
Required Courses
One course from the following options
PHIL 145 Elementary Logical and Critical Thinking
PHIL 150 Formal Logic and Critical Thinking
3 credits
PHIL 275
Ancient and Medieval Philosophy
3 credits
PHIL 280
Modern Philosophy
3 credits
Two additional 100-level (or higher) Philosophy courses
6 credits
One 300- or 400-level Philosophy course
3 credits
TOTAL
18 credits
Required Courses
PHIL 120
Culture, Identity, and Values
3 credits
PHIL 125
The Good Life
3 credits
PHIL 250
Political Philosophy
3 credits
PHIL 275
Ancient and Medieval Philosophy
3 credits
PHIL 280
Modern Philosophy
3 credits
One course from the following options
PHIL 335 Ethical Theory
One 400-level ethics-themed Philosophy course (students should consult with their Philosophy adviser or the department chair to determine which courses are applicable)
3 credits
TOTAL
18 credits
Required Courses
One course from the following options
PHIL 145 Elementary Logical and Critical Thinking
PHIL 150 Formal Logic and Critical Thinking
3 credits
PHIL 275
Ancient and Medieval Philosophy
3 credits
PHIL 280
Modern Philosophy
3 credits
PHIL 285
History of 20th Century Anglo-American Philosophy
3 credits
PHIL 286
History of 20th Century European Philosophy
3 credits
One course from the following options
PHIL 475 Advanced History of Philosophy
One 400-level history-themed Philosophy course (students should consult with their Philosophy adviser or the department chair to determine which courses are applicable)
