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Philosophy

Academic programs

Undergraduate programs

Visit the Philosophy program page

Philosophy

Undergrad major Undergrad minor

Philosophy means the love of wisdom. It is the academic study of questions related to fundamental truths: What is a meaningful life? How should I treat others? What are my responsibilities to the environment? What is truth? What is beauty? What is the nature of reality and the mind? Philosophers ask these questions and many others. The field teaches people how to assess the positions of others and more precisely articulate their own.

Sample planfor Philosophy Catalogfor Philosophy
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Visit the Ethics program page

Ethics

Undergrad minor

Ethics involves "systematizing, defending, and recommending concepts of right and wrong behavior," according to the Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy. Ethical theories are typically divided into three general subject areas:

  • Metaethics: Investigates where our ethical principles come from and what they mean.
  • Normative ethics: Aims to find moral standards that regulate right and wrong conduct.
  • Applied ethics: Involves examining specific controversial issues from animal rights to nuclear war.
    -Source: Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy
Sample planfor Ethics Catalogfor Ethics
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About the philosophy major and minor

Considering a major or minor in Philosophy? Our major and minor programs are designed to provide you with a solid foundation in philosophical methods and core areas of philosophy, while remaining flexible enough to allow you to pursue other interests.   

Double Majoring

Many of our philosophy majors choose to double major - if you already have a major that you like, you can add philosophy as a second major! With only 30 credits of required philosophy coursework for either the BA or BS option, many students find it possible to complete two majors in a timely fashion.

Adding a minor to your current degree program

The philosophy minor is a good option if you are interested in additional philosophy coursework but you do not have enough credits left to pursue the Major.  With only 18 credits of required philosophy coursework, the minor complements nearly any major.

Honors Option

We especially encourage philosophy majors with a high GPA in philosophy courses and other UWL coursework to consider pursuing the Honors option.  In addition to the usual requirements of the major, the Honors option requires that you write and defend an honors thesis.

Want to learn more?

Interested in learning more about the philosophy major or minor?  Make an appointment today to meet with one of our friendly faculty members!  We will be happy to explain the major and minor in a bit more detail, and will help you determine the best way to complete a philosophy major or minor while still graduating on time! Even if you're already a junior or senior, there is still time to pursue one of our program options.