2025-2026 Catalog

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Major: Philosophy and Religious Studies, B.A. (1599.10), 30 Credits

 

General Education: 30 Credits; Major: 30 Credits; Elective Credits: 60 Credits

Learning Goals for the Major in Philosophy and Religious Studies

Upon completing the Philosophy and Religious Studies major, students will be able to:

  • Identify (in speaking and writing) concerns at the heart of human experience, especially those pertaining to the fundamental nature of reality, knowledge, and values;
  • Investigate, understand, and articulate (in speaking and writing)the way great thinkers and religious communities have addressed these issues throughout history;
  • Explain (in speaking and writing) the nature and function of religion in individual life and human society, and historical and contemporary differences and similarities between religious systems;
  • Respond to and evaluate (in speaking and writing) these concerns themselves, building on a firm foundation of cultural literacy, analytic method, and critical intelligence.

Core Courses (6 Credits)

RS 120 Introduction to the Religions of Asia

3
PHIL 103Introduction to Ethics

3

Philosophy Core (3 Credits)

Take one of the following:

PHIL 101Introduction to Philosophy

3
PHIL 109Introduction to Logic

3

Advanced Ethics and Justice Core (9 Credits)

Take three of the following:

PHIL 204Contemporary Ethical Issues

3
PHIL 261Political Philosophy

3
AIP 310The Nature of Evil (EP)

3
PHIL 340Ethics and Law

3
RS 208Religion and Social Justice

3
RS 340Comparative Religious Ethics

3

Capstone Experience (3 Credits)

Take one of the following:

PHIL 496TEACHING APPRENTICESHIP
PHIL 497Research

1-6
PHIL 498Directed Study

1-6
PHIL 499Independent Study/Internship

1-6
RS 496TEACHING APPRENTICESHIP
RS 497Research

3
RS 498Directed Study

1-6
RS 499Independent Study/Internship

1-6

Electives (9 Credits)

 

Any three Philosophy or Religious Study courses beyond those counting for core requirements.