Major code BA5241

College of Arts and Sciences  
Philosophy Department  
Ellis Hall 202
Athens, OH 45701
Phone: 740.593.4588
philosophy.department@ohio.edu
https://www.ohio.edu/cas/philosophy

Al Lent, contact person
lent@ohio.edu

Program Overview

A major in philosophy introduces students to a wide range of substantive and theoretical topics that have been central to the Western intellectual tradition since 585 B.C.E. These topics include such broad and enduring questions as “What is the right way for human beings to live?” “What is the ultimate structure of reality?” “What is the nature of a just society?” “What is human knowledge and how do we come to have it?” “Can other sorts of beings have anything like knowledge in the same sense that we have it?” “Is there a God, and if so, what are the properties that God has?” “What is the nature and structure of scientific inquiry?” “What are the fundamental componemts of rational thought and practical reasoning?” These questions have intrigued generation after generation, and they continue to fascinate the thoughtful and well-educated person.  Undergraduate philosophy majors gain historical and technical knowledge that is central to the discipline of philosophy, including knowledge of core concepts, theories, argumentative techniques, movements, and influential figures, within the subfields of aesthetics, ethics, epistemology, logic, metaphysics, and social & political philosophy. In the course of this inquiry, majors learn to reason clearly and carefully, employing the principles of logic to construct cogent arguments in both speech and writing.  Philosophy majors also learn to think creatively and independently, exploring possibilities beyond those entrenched in prevailing opinion and practice.

Admissions Information

Freshman/First-Year Admission

No requirements beyond University admission requirements.

Change of Program Policy

No selective or limited admission requirements.

External Transfer Admission

No requirements beyond University admission requirements.

Opportunities Upon Graduation

A bachelor of arts in philosophy prepares students for a wide range of careers, from politics, to business, to service, and much more. Virtually any job that requires critical thinking skills, an ability to communicate well, and creativity in working out problems will be suitable for a philosophy major. Examples of potential employers include, but are not limited to, the following: institutions of higher education; adult education programs; research institutes; environmental agencies; consulting firms; legal clinics; non-profit organizations; financial institutions; religious organizations and retreat centers; and correctional institutions.

A degree in philosophy also prepares Ohio University students for further graduate level work in philosophy, law, theology, and various other related disciplines.

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Requirements