Program Overview

Introduction to the Philosophy Program

The Philosophy Department at Western Washington University offers a comprehensive program that explores fundamental questions about knowledge, truth, and existence. The department provides a wide range of courses in traditional areas of philosophical concern, including ethics, epistemology, logic, metaphysics, and the history of philosophy.

Why Consider a Philosophy Major?

A major in Philosophy is an excellent choice for students who plan to pursue careers in law, business, government, or other fields that require a strong liberal arts background. The program emphasizes critical analysis, problem-solving, and effective communication, making it an ideal foundation for a variety of professional paths.

Program Requirements

The Philosophy program requires a total of 57 credits, including:

• PHIL 112 - Introduction to Philosophy: Ethics and the Good Life (3 credits)
• PHIL 114 - Introduction to Philosophy: Knowledge and Reality (3 credits)
• PHIL 201 - Logic I (3 credits)
• PHIL 202 - Logic II (3 credits)
• PHIL 310 - Theory of Knowledge I (3 credits)
• PHIL 320 - Ethical Theory I (3 credits)
• PHIL 330 - Metaphysics I (3 credits)
• PHIL 410 - Theory of Knowledge II (3 credits)
• PHIL 417 - Seminar in Philosophy (3 credits)
• PHIL 420 - Ethical Theory II (3 credits)
• PHIL 430 - Metaphysics II (3 credits)
• Three courses from:
  • PHIL 363 - History of Philosophy: Classical Chinese Philosophy (3 credits)
  • PHIL 364 - History of Philosophy: Ancient Greek Philosophy (3 credits)
  • PHIL 366 - History of Philosophy: The Rationalists (3 credits)
  • PHIL 367 - History of Philosophy: The Empiricists (3 credits)
  • PHIL 368 - History of Philosophy: Kant and Post-Kantian Philosophy (3 credits)
  • PHIL 370 - History of Philosophy: Special Topics (3 credits)
• 15 additional philosophy credits

University Graduation Requirements

In addition to the program requirements, students must also satisfy the university's general graduation requirements, including:

• Writing Proficiency Requirement (WP)
• 180 Minimum Total Credits
• 60 Minimum Upper Division Credits
• Residency Requirement
• Minimum Grade Requirements
• Final Quarter Requirement

Career Opportunities

A degree in Philosophy can lead to a variety of career paths, including:

• Attorney
• Analyst
• Diplomat
• Lobbyist
• News Writer
• Journalist
• Clergy
• Critic

Conclusion

The Philosophy program at Western Washington University provides students with a comprehensive education in the principles and methods of philosophical inquiry. With its emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication, this program is an excellent choice for students who plan to pursue careers in a variety of fields.