Philosophy

www.phil.uiuc.edu/

Philosophy is the oldest, broadest, and most fundamental form of inquiry. Some philosophical questions have to do with the understanding of ourselves and whatever else there may be. Others focus upon the nature of different forms of knowledge and experience, and upon ethical issues and problems of value. The study of philosophy is one of the most important elements in a good liberal education. It also improves one's ability to think clearly, and to construct, analyze, and criticize arguments of any kind. The major and minor are sponsored by the Department of Philosophy.

Major in Sciences and Letters Curriculum

E-mail: cjcolema@uiuc.edu

Degree title: Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts and Sciences

Minimum required major and supporting course work normally equates to 44-50 hours including at least 30 hours of Philosophy courses

General education: The LAS General Education requirements are set up so students automatically complete the Campus General Education requirements.

Minimum hours required for graduation: 120 hours

Departmental distinction: Eligibility for distinction may be pursued by either: (1) the thesis option, which requires at least 30 hours of philosophy courses (including 5 advanced courses), a grade point average of 3.0 in all philosophy courses, and writing a thesis; or (2) the course work option, which requires 38 hours of philosophy (including 8 advanced courses) and a 3.5 grade point average in all philosophy courses. For further information, inquire in the department office.

The Philosophy Major is undergoing revision. Please contact the Philosophy Department (105 Gregory Hall, 333-2889) for details.

Hours	Requirements
30	Philosophy courses ¹ including:
	Select one:
	PHIL 102–Logic and Reasoning or
	PHIL 202–Symbolic Logic ²
	PHIL 203–Ancient Philosophy
	PHIL 206–Early Modern Philosophy
	PHIL 421–Ethical Theories
	At least 16 additional hours of course work in philosophy, with 12 of those hours being above the 100 level (including at least three 300- or 400-level courses) in addition to the core courses.
12	A student may select either of two types of programs of supporting course work and should work out a specific program of the type chosen with the help and approval of a departmental adviser.
	Twelve hours minimum. Select from:
	Option I: Intensive study in another discipline. Courses normally beyond the 100 level in one other discipline. Most approved minors satisfy this requirement.
	or
	Option II: A special program of study built around a unifying theme or topic. Course work outside philosophy in one or more other discipline(s), normally beyond the 100 level, together with one or more philosophy course(s) related to the theme or topic. The program may focus upon a historical period, a certain subject (e.g., language, politics, science, religion, art), or a particular philosophical problem, with outside course work in appropriate disciplines.
6-8	Western civilization general education sequence, select from:
	HIST 141–Western Civ to 1660 (or HIST 140), and
	HIST 142–Western Civ Since 1660 (or HIST 143)
	or
	CWL 241–Masterpieces West Culture I, and
	CWL 242–Masterpieces West Culture II
	or
	PHIL 108–Religion & Society in West I, and
	PHIL 109–Religion & Society in West II

1. If possible, students should take these courses prior to the senior year. Substitutions may be made only with the approval of the chair of the department.
2. Those considering graduate work in philosophy should take PHIL 202.

Twelve hours of 300- and 400-level courses in the major must be taken on this campus.

All foreign language requirements must be satisfied.

A Major Plan of Study Form must be completed and submitted to the LAS Student Affairs Office before the end of the fifth semester (60-75 hours). Please see your adviser.

Minor in Philosophy

E-mail: cjcolema@uiuc.edu

Web address for department: http//www.phil.uiuc.edu/

Hours	Requirements
4	PHIL 203–Ancient Philosophy
4	PHIL 206–Early Modern Philosophy
12	Four other Philosophy courses, including at least two at the 300- or 400- level
20	Total