Requirements for a Major or Minor in Philosophy

Requirements for a B.A. degree with a major in Philosophy. Twenty-four semester hours in philosophy with at least 6 in Topical Studies, 6 in Historical Studies and 3 in Logical Studies. At least 12 hours must be at the 40000 level or above. An accompanying minor should be chosen in consultation with the adviser for the Philosophy Department.

Requirements for a minor in Philosophy. Eighteen semester hours in philosophy with at least 3 in each of the 3 divisions (Topical, Historical and Logical Studies) at least 9 hours at the 40000 level or above. Selection of courses should be made in consultation with the designated adviser for the Philosophy Department.

PHIL 10003 must be completed prior to taking almost any other philosophy course except for those in Logical Studies. After completion of PHIL 10003, it is generally required that students take one or more 30000 level courses, where more detailed and rigorous treatment of specific areas as well as initial instruction in philosophical writing will be provided. Successful completion of courses at the 30000 level should prepare students for 40000 level courses, most of which (except for Logical Studies) satisfy the UCR Writing Emphasis requirement (see this Bulletin's UCR section on Writing Emphasis).

Important Note: The description of a number of 30000 or 40000 level courses include specific prerequisites for those courses. For example, in order to take PHIL 40343 (Advanced Issues in Philosophy of Law) students must first complete PHIL 10003 as well as PHIL 30413 (Introduction to Philosophy of Law). Other 40000 level courses (e.g. History of Ancient and Medieval Philosophy) require only that students have taken some 30000 level course. The department strongly urges students interested in courses beyond PHIL 10003 to consult with a member of the department in choosing courses best suited to their curricular needs.

Honors Program. Philosophy majors who plan to pursue Departmental Honors must be members of the Honors Program and should enroll in PHIL 30003 during their junior year and PHIL 40000 during the fall semester of their senior year. (Note: PHIL 3003 may be included in the 24 semester hours required for the major, but PHIL 40000 may not.)

Pass/No Credit. Courses to be applied toward the major may not be taken on the Pass/No Credit basis. Philosophy majors may take courses in their minor on the Pass/No Credit basis.