By learning to grapple with big questions about human existence, students in philosophy acquire conceptual and applied skills essential to pursuing a rewarding career and a meaningful life. Students grapple with basic questions such as: What is a good life, and what is the morally right thing to do? (Ethics); What is the nature of reality? What is the identity of a person, and what does it mean to be a person? Does God exist? Do we have free will? What is truth, and what distinguishes knowledge from mere belief and opinion? (Metaphysics and Epistemology); What is justice? What is the basis of political obligation? What is the nature and aim of law? (Politics and Law). The skills acquired by wrestling with basic questions such as these include: critical analysis, creative and innovative thinking, effective written and oral communication, principled ethical evaluation, problem-solving and rational-decision making. For decades, employers have sought candidates who demonstrate a capacity for these skills.
The major in philosophy requires a total of at least 30 credit hours, seven required core classes (15 credit hours).
At least 18 credit hours must be 300 level or above. No more than 3 credit hours at the 100 level will count toward the required hours. Students must make a C- or better in all courses. At least 20 percent of the total required hours must be taken at NKU.
Four-Year Plan: Click here to view the Four-Year Plan for this specific program. To find out more about Four-Year Plans, visit the Policies and Procedures page.
♦ Indicates prerequisite.
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