Information and Programs
Introduction
Study in Philosophy is an essential ingredient of a liberal arts education. The Department of Philosophy offers a full curriculum on three levels: introductory courses (100 level), intermediate and advanced courses with concentration on particular sub-fields of philosophy (200 level), and topical and historical seminars (300 level). The Philosophy major meets the needs and interests of the following students: a) those who plan graduate study and teaching in the field; b) those who intend to go to law school; c) those who seek preparation for work in government, business, social service, journalism, or any field in which critical thinking is valued; and d) those who wish to approach a liberal arts education through a concentrated study of philosophy. The major also combines easily with other majors.
Honors Program
The Department offers an Honors Program to qualified senior majors. The Program involves intensive study and writing under faculty supervision for an academic year. It culminates in the preparation of a lengthy written thesis, and a defense of the thesis before departmental faculty and, typically, an external examiner from another college or university.
Winter Term
A number of members of the Department are available to sponsor Winter Term projects in any given year. Please see the Course Catalogue for this year's list.
Essay Contests
Each academic year the Department sponsors the Christopher P. Dahl Essay Contest, to honor the best undergraduate essay in philosophy, and also the Nancy K, Rhoden Essay contest, to honor an excellent essay in ethics, medical ethics, or jurisprudence. Essays submitted by students in these open competitions are typically 10-20 pages in length, and may previously have been submitted as papers in courses. Winners receive a cash prize.