Philosophy

Preparation

Philosophy is a sound choice for those seeking a broad liberal arts undergraduate education and for those who value the skills and outlook imparted by studying the discipline. The major program prepares students for graduate studies in philosophy, law, social policy, and political theory, to name just a few areas of formal specialization. Students preparing for graduate studies in philosophy are strongly advised to follow a more structured majors program with additional course recommendations.

Transfer and Study Abroad Credit

The Philosophy Department''s transfer policies are as follows. All transfer courses in Philosophy must be approved by the Philosophy faculty upon consideration of a course catalog description and a syllabus for the course (to be provided by the student). If the course is taken during a student''s enrollment at Kalamazoo College (for instance, on study abroad or during the summer), the approval must be obtained before the course is taken. In addition, the Department will consider only courses taught by instructors with a Ph.D. in Philosophy, or who are "ABD" (all but dissertation) in Philosophy.

Requirements for the Major in Philosophy

Number of Units
Eight units are required, which may include the SIP.

Required Courses
PHIL 107 Logic and Reasoning
PHIL 208 19TH Century Philosophy
PHIL 490 Philosophy Seminar
Three student-chosen electives
Two of the following History or Traditions Courses:
PHIL 109 Existentialism and Film
PHIL 205 Ancient Philosophy
PHIL 206 Early Modern Philosophy
PHIL 207 18th-Century Philosophy
PHIL 310 Critical Social Theory: The Dialectic of Enlightenment
PHIL 311 Postmodern Critical Theory

Majors Preparing for Graduate Studies in Philosophy are Strongly Recommended to pursue the following programs

Number of Units
Ten units are required, which may include the SIP.

Required Courses
PHIL 107 Logic and Reasoning
PHIL 208 19th Century Philosophy
Core History Sequence:
PHIL 109 Existentialism and Film
PHIL 205 Ancient Philosophy
PHIL 206 Early Modern Philosophy
PHIL 207 18th-Century Philosophy
PHIL 490 Philosophy Seminar
Three or four Electives chosen in close consultation with Department

Requirements for the Minor in Philosophy

Number of Units
Six units are required.

Required Courses
PHIL 105 Ethics
Two historical or "traditions" courses
(See list under Required Courses for the Major in Philosophy)

Three electives chosen in consultation with the department. We also recommend either supervisory or advisory involvement with the SIP.

A SIP in Philosophy does not count toward minor requirements.