Philosophy is the systematic and critical inquiry into thinking and the nature of existence. As a practice, philosophy teaches analytical and critical thinking, develops oral and written communication skills, and contributes to interdisciplinary understanding. Philosophy attempts to answer perennial questions about values, human existence, and the nature of reality. Skills developed in this inquiry help philosophy students excel in careers in law, medicine, management, education, government, writing, computer science, psychology, sociology, and ministry among many others.
Psychology is a science that studies behavior from psychological, biological, and social perspectives. Psychology is the study of the mind and behavior. The discipline embraces all aspects of the human experience - from the functions of the brain to the actions of nations, from child development to care for the aged. In every conceivable setting from scientific research centers to mental healthcare services, “the understanding of behavior” is the enterprise of psychologists.
General Information
The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Philosophy and Psychology requires the following:
- A minimum of 30 credit hours of PHIL course work. At least 18 of those hours must be upper division (courses numbered 3000 or higher).
- A minimum of 33 credit hours of PSY course work. At least 18 of those hours must be upper division.
- A grade of C or better in PHIL courses applied to the major and a grade of C- or better in PSY courses applied to the major.
- A minimum 2.0 GPA must be maintained in all major course work.
- Completion of one Summit Course from either department. Students may complete either the PHIL Senior Thesis or a PSY Advanced Seminar course that is approved for Compass Curriculum: Summit.
- Completion of the Psychology Senior Accountability Exam during the final semester of the senior year.
Additional course work is required to complete the Philosophy and Psychology, BA degree. Please see the advising guide on the Academic Advising website for more information.
