Philosophydrafted

Program Overview

Holy Cross College's philosophy program equips students with critical thinking, reading, and writing skills. It explores fundamental questions about the world, God, and ourselves through a blend of systematic and historical approaches, covering various philosophical branches. The program prepares graduates for careers in law, medicine, business, education, and government, among others.

Program Outline

Philosophy at Holy Cross College: A Detailed Look

Degree Overview:

The philosophy program at Holy Cross College aims to equip students with the tools to think critically, read closely, and write persuasively. It delves into fundamental questions about the world, God, and ourselves, drawing on the wisdom of great thinkers from across history. The program offers a unique blend of systematic and historical approaches, exploring philosophical issues from various perspectives.

Outline:

The philosophy program at Holy Cross College encompasses a diverse range of courses covering various philosophical branches, including:

• Philosophy of nature: Exploring questions about the physical world and our place within it.
• Philosophy of human nature: Examining what it means to be human, including our moral and intellectual capacities.
• Ethics: Studying questions of right and wrong, exploring various ethical theories and their application to real-world situations.
• Political philosophy: Examining the nature of government, justice, and political authority.
• Metaphysics: Exploring the fundamental nature of reality, addressing questions about existence, time, and causation.
• Epistemology: Investigating the nature of knowledge and how we come to know what we know.
The program offers a variety of courses, allowing students to tailor their studies to their specific interests. Some examples include:
• Ancient Greek Philosophy: Examining the works of Plato, Aristotle, and other key figures in the Western philosophical tradition.
• Modern Philosophy: Exploring the ideas of Descartes, Hume, Kant, and other influential thinkers.
• Contemporary Philosophy: Engaging with current philosophical debates and issues.
• Philosophy of Religion: Investigating the nature of religious belief and its implications.
• Bioethics: Examining ethical issues surrounding advances in medical technology.

Assessment:

Students in the philosophy program are assessed through a variety of methods, including:

• Essays: Students are expected to write clear, well-reasoned essays that demonstrate their understanding of philosophical concepts and their ability to apply them to specific problems.
• Exams: Exams may include essay questions, short answer questions, and multiple-choice questions.
• Presentations: Students may be required to give presentations on their research or to lead class discussions.
• Participation: Active participation in class discussions is an important part of the learning process.

Teaching:

The philosophy program at Holy Cross College is taught by a dedicated faculty of experienced philosophers. The faculty are committed to providing students with a rigorous and engaging education. They use a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, and group projects. The program also offers a variety of resources to support student learning, including a well-stocked library and writing center.

Careers:

A degree in philosophy from Holy Cross College can prepare students for a wide range of careers. Philosophy majors are well-equipped for careers in fields such as:

• Law: Philosophy majors develop strong analytical and writing skills that are essential for success in law school and legal practice.
• Medicine: Philosophy majors are well-prepared for the ethical challenges of the medical field.
• Business: Philosophy majors can bring valuable critical thinking and problem-solving skills to the business world.
• Education: Philosophy majors are well-qualified to teach philosophy and other subjects at the high school and college levels.
• Government: Philosophy majors can contribute their analytical and critical thinking skills to government service.

Other:

The philosophy program at Holy Cross College is committed to providing students with a well-rounded education. In addition to their coursework, students have the opportunity to participate in a variety of extracurricular activities, including the philosophy club and the student-run philosophy journal. The program also offers opportunities for students to study abroad and to conduct independent research.