The Major

Providence College offers both a major and a minor in philosophy. The major is undergoing a number of exciting changes that should go into effect by 2008. Philosophy majors will soon be able to enjoy a number of free electives and the opportunity to specialize in certain areas of philosophy. Thus, students will be able to direct their philosophical education in a way that will not only suit their interests but will also focus their preparation for any career. For example, students may choose to study philosophy on a pre-law or a pre-medical track or they may select a track to prepare for a specific area of graduate study.

Until these changes take effect, students majoring in philosophy are required to take 10 courses for a total of 30 credits.  The courses are:

PHL 101 Logic
PHL 202 General Ethics
PHL 211 Ancient Philosophy
PHL 212 Medieval Philosophy
PHL 330 Wisdom of Aquinas
PHL 360 Modern Philosophy
PHL 412 Contemporary Philosophy
PHL 426 Metaphysics
PHL 480 Seminar
PHL 481 Seminar

The suggested sequence follows (credits in parentheses):

Second Semester
DWC 102 Devel of Western Civilization (5)
Core Requirement (3)
2 Free Electives (6)

Second Semester
DWC 202 Devel of Western Civilization (5)
Natural Science Requirement (3)
PHL 212 Medieval Philosophy (3)
Free Elective (3)

Second Semester
PHL 422 Contemporary Philosophy (3)
PHL 481 Seminar (3)
Core Requirement (3)
2 Free Electives (6)

The Minor

The requirements for a minor in philosophy are:

    1.  21 total credits (7 courses) in philosophy

    2.  Of the 21 credits, 9 credits (3 courses) must be selected from the following list:

         PHL 211 Ancient Philosophy
         PHL 212 Medieval Philosophy
         PHL 360 Modern Philosophy
         PHL 412 Contemporary Philosophy

    3.  The remaining 12 credits (4 courses) are philosophy electives and at least one
    course of these four shall be on the 300 level or above.