Philosophy is the attempt to answer certain persistent human questions, which fall into three traditional groups:
- Axiology (the theory of value)
- Metaphysics (the theory of being)
- Epistemology (the theory of knowledge)
Characteristic questions include the following:
- What is good?
- What is real?
- What is knowledge, and how can one achieve it?
By studying what the great philosophers have to say about these questions, you can develop a clear personal philosophy (and a clearer grasp of Christian theology), learn about the history of thought, and develop analytical skills — which can be applied to any other field.
Find out more about this program’s mission, vision, and learning outcomes.
The BA in Philosophy (General Track) can enable you to develop a clear personal philosophy (and a clearer grasp of Christian theology), learn about the history of thought, and develop analytical skills — which can be applied to any other field.
- A minimum 59 credits are required for this major, including 25 upper-division credits, if you are completing only one major.
- If you are completing an additional major, with the approval of the Philosophy faculty you may omit 5 credits, completing only 54 credits in this major.
- Philosophy majors often train for careers in law, the ministry, the computer industry, and education, as well as in most other professional fields.
- If you are currently majoring in another field, you are encouraged to consider Philosophy as a second major.
To the solid grounding in philosophical writing, argument, analysis, and problem solving provided by the philosophy core, the BA in Philosophy (Technical Track) adds fundamental courses in computer science. This major is designed for you if you seek a career in information technology (e.g., programming and data analysis).
- A minimum 70 credits are required for this major, including 25 upper-division credits.
- Includes courses in computer science, one of which is focused on ethical issues related to computing technology.
entering and completing the major or minor
In order to earn a degree, you must complete an academic major. SPU encourages students to explore various academic paths, and students are not required to enter a major immediately upon admission to the University. However, you should enter a major by the end of your sophomore year to help ensure your timely completion of a degree. Students who transfer as juniors and seniors should identify and enter their major within their first two quarters at SPU.
- If this is your first quarter at SPU and you wish to enter a major or minor in this department, you may select a program by using the online Major or Minor Application form. You will receive an email notification of acceptance.
- If you are an SPU student with an SPU cumulative GPA of 2.0 or better, use the online Major or Minor Application form to select your major or minor. You will receive an email notification of acceptance. Students on academic probation (with an SPU cumulative GPA below 2.0) will not be permitted to enter a new major or minor until they regain good academic standing.
- The University requires a grade of C- or better in all classes that apply to a major or minor; however, programs may require higher minimum grades in specific courses. You may repeat an SPU course only once for a higher grade.
- To advance in this program, meet with your faculty advisor regularly to discuss your grades, course progression, and other indicators of satisfactory academic progress. If your grades or other factors indicate that you may not be able to successfully complete the major or minor, your faculty advisor can work with you to explore options, which may include choosing a different major or minor.
- You must complete the major or minor requirements in effect in the SPU Undergraduate Catalog for the year of admittance to the major or minor.