2023-2024 Academic Catalog 
    
    Mar 19, 2024  
2023-2024 Academic Catalog

Philosophy, BA


Program Description

As lovers of wisdom, philosophers have always contemplated life’s fundamental questions: What values make life meaningful, what is the nature of reality and knowledge, what is the best organization for society, does God exist?

The philosophy faculty offer courses in logic, ethics, epistemology, philosophy of religion, and philosophy of science. We also teach topical courses focused on major philosophers, particular historical periods (ancient, medieval, modern), and discrete philosophical topics (for example, existentialism, aesthetics, and ancient science).

By challenging students to analyze concepts clearly and evaluate arguments critically, philosophy hones reasoning skills, stimulates intellectual creativity, and makes life more interesting and rewarding. By teaching critical thinking, persuasive writing, and effective communication, philosophy also develops skills in high demand by employers.

Admission Requirements 

Students must have met College of Liberal Arts admission requirements. 

Program Learning Outcomes

Students in the Philosophy, BA program will:

  • Acquire effective writing and communication skills
  • Acquire strong critical thinking skills
  • Learn how to analyze complex arguments
  • Appreciate diverse philosophical worldviews and ethical systems

Philosophy Honors Program

Students with a GPA of 3.5 or higher in Philosophy may apply to complete an Honors project. An Honors project involves independent study with a faculty mentor. It will usually extend over two consecutive terms and earn six hours of credit upon its successful completion. The project culminates in the writing of a major research paper (25-30 pages) during the second term and an oral defense of the project with the program faculty.

For More Information

Program Requirements:


I. Wright State Core: 38 Hours


Element 1: Communication: 6 Hours


Element 2: Mathematics: 3 Hours


Element 3: Global Traditions: 6 Hours


Element 4: Arts and Humanities: 3 Hours


Element 5: Social Sciences: 6 Hours


Element 6: Natural Sciences: 8 Hours


Additional Core Courses: 6 Hours


II. Major Requirements: 33 Hours


Five Area Courses with at least one from each: 15 Hours


Area 1: Philosophy Core Curriculum

Area 2: History of Philosophy

Area 3: Value Theory 


Area 1: Philosophy Core Curriculum


Take at least one course from this area.

Area 3: History of Philosophy


Take at least one course from this area.

Philosophy Electives - 6 courses: 18 Hours


One 3-credit upper level REL or CLS course may be substituted for one 3-credit PHL elective course.

III. Related Requirements


IV. College Requirements: 18 Hours


Foreign Language: 12 Hours


Through 2020 level (1010, 1020, 2010, 2020) of one language:

Arabic, Spanish, French, German, Greek, Latin, Chinese, American Sign Language or other.

Methods of Inquiry


V. Electives: 31 Hours


Total: 120 Hours


Graduation Planning Strategy


The Graduation Planning Strategy (GPS) has been created to illustrate one option to complete degree requirements within a particular time frame. Students are encouraged to meet with their academic advisor to adjust this plan based on credit already earned, individual needs or curricular changes that may not be reflected in this year’s catalog.