Department of Philosophy and Religion

Mathew Foust, Chair

The objectives of the Department of Philosophy and Religion are to provide students with a critical study of historical and contemporary figures and ideas in philosophy and religious studies; to promote critical examination of and reflective discourse about important ideas, institutions, and practices that have shaped and continue to shape our world; and to cultivate the skills necessary for advancing knowledge in the disciplines of philosophy and religion.

In keeping with these objectives, the department offers two undergraduate majors and minors: a major and minor in Philosophy, and a major and minor in Religious Studies. For participants in the graduate program, a limited amount of graduate work is available, including a graduate minor in Philosophy, and one in Religious Studies. The graduate minors are designed for students on an individual basis. For further information, contact the departmental chair.

Philosophy provides an opportunity to study and critically engage with ideas that have grounded historical and contemporary understanding of the nature of knowledge, truth, power, reality, beauty, mind, body, identity, experience, justice, and morality. A degree in Philosophy prepares students to clarify complex issues; to reason clearly, critically, and persuasively; and to analyze and solve
problems.

Religious Studies provides an opportunity to study and critically engage religious beliefs, practices, and institutions that have shaped our world. A degree in Religious Studies prepares students to participate in the academic study of religion; to understand and interrogate ideas informing diverse religions in the world; and to engage in clear and critical discussion of religious issues.

Honors Program in Philosophy and Religious Studies

The Department of Philosophy and Religion offers an honors program for students with a minimum overall GPA of 3.4. To graduate with “honors in philosophy” or “honors in religious studies,” a student must be a Philosophy major or a Religious Studies major and complete at least 9 semester hours of work in departmental honors courses with a cumulative GPA of 3.4 or above in those courses. Six of the hours will be comprised of honors coursework and three of the hours must be either PHL 4510 or REL 4510 , Senior Honors Thesis. A grade of B (3.0 grade points) or better is required for Honors Credit in each class.

Internship Program

The department offers an internship program to augment the academic program of majors and minors who will be seeking employment
upon graduation. Internship programs are devised on an individual basis. For more information, contact Dr. Stephanie Yep, Director of the department’s Internship Program.

Programs

Bachelor of Arts

Minor

Courses

Philosophy

Religious Studies