Students pursuing a major in Philosophy critically study the abiding questions facing humankind: What is the nature of God? Why be moral? Is there an afterlife? What is beauty? What is truth? What is justice? What does it mean to know? The study of philosophy develops analytical, critical, and interpretive abilities, cultivating a student’s capacities for reflection and self-expression. Students majoring in Philosophy develop a comprehensive knowledge of the history of philosophy and the representative philosophical problems and issues of the discipline. The study of philosophy further enhances the student’s capacity to apply philosophical methods to intellectual problems across academic fields of study.
The study of philosophy is excellent preparation for careers that demand careful reading, critical thinking, and decision-making abilities. A major in Philosophy provides a solid foundation for students planning careers in medicine, law, education, and business. Philosophy majors are among the top performers on the Law School Aptitude Test and the Medical College Aptitude Test. Philosophy majors also succeed in executive and management sectors of business that require the ability to assimilate information, analyze situations, and produce effective solutions to complex problems.
Requirements for Graduation:
To be eligible for graduation, students majoring in Philosophy must complete a minimum of 120 credits, achieve a cumulative grade point average of 2.0, satisfy the College’s residency requirements, and complete the General Education Requirements of the College. A minimum grade of 2.0 is required for First Year Seminar and all courses taken as part of Foundations. Courses used to complete General Education Requirements may not be taken on a pass/fail basis. In addition, Philosophy majors must complete two semesters of one foreign language.
The General Education Requirements of the college require students to successfully complete a First Year Seminar, Foundations, Disciplinary Perspectives, and a Constellation. Students who enter the college with 30 credit hours completed will not take a First Year Seminar course and therefore must take an additional 3 credits for graduation. Transfer students that are awarded 60 or more credits upon acceptance to York College will not be required to complete a Constellation.
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