Philosophy

The Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy at Slippery Rock University offers students an opportunity to explore fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, and the nature of reality. This comprehensive program is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and ethical awareness, preparing graduates for a variety of careers in education, law, business, public service, and more. Throughout the coursework, students engage with classic philosophical texts as well as contemporary debates, fostering a deep understanding of diverse perspectives and intellectual traditions. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical application, encouraging students to analyze complex issues, construct well-reasoned arguments, and communicate their ideas effectively.

Students in the Philosophy program will explore a broad range of subjects including metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, political philosophy, philosophy of mind, and logic. The curriculum is structured to provide a solid foundation in philosophical theories and methods, with opportunities for specialization through elective courses. The faculty members are experienced scholars committed to mentoring students and promoting intellectual growth through innovative teaching and research. In addition to coursework, students may participate in seminars, conferences, and research projects that enhance their academic experience and prepare them for graduate studies or professional careers.

The program aims to cultivate a lifelong love of learning and critical inquiry, encouraging students to reflect on their own beliefs and values. It also emphasizes ethical responsibility and social awareness, preparing graduates to contribute thoughtfully to society. With a strong emphasis on writing, argumentation, and analysis, the Philosophy program at Slippery Rock University equips students with the skills necessary for complex problem-solving and ethical decision-making in a rapidly changing world. Graduates of this program will be well-prepared to pursue advanced degrees or enter fields such as education, law, public policy, business, and technology, where philosophical reasoning and ethical considerations are increasingly valued.

Detailed Course Facts

• English

Course Content

B.A. in Philosophy - Credits: 33

Core Requirements - Credits: 21

• PHIL 113 - Introduction to Logic Credits: 3

OR

• PHIL 313 - Symbolic Logic Credits: 3
• PHIL 123 - Ethics Credits: 3
• PHIL 331 - Social and Political Philosophy Credits: 3

OR

• PHIL 335 - Philosophy of Law and Justice Credits: 3
• PHIL 341 - Philosophy of Religion Credits: 3

OR

• PHIL 343 - Asian Philosophy Credits: 3
• PHIL 371 - History of Western Philosophy I Credits: 3
• PHIL 372 - History of Western Philosophy II Credits: 3
• PHIL 375 - Existentialism and Phenomenology Credits: 3

OR

• PHIL 376 - Analytic Philosophy Credits: 3

Philosophy Electives - Credits: 12

At least 3 credits must be at the 300 level or higher

• PHIL 101 - Introduction to Philosophy Credits: 3
• PHIL 140 - World Religions Credits: 3
• PHIL 163 - Philosophy in Literature Credits: 3
• PHIL 170 - American Philosophy Credits: 3
• PHIL 171 - Philosophy of Human Existence Credits: 3
• PHIL 261 - Philosophy of Art Credits: 3
• PHIL 324 - Environmental Ethics Credits: 3
• PHIL 325 - Medical/Health Care Ethics Credits: 3
• PHIL 326 - Business Ethics Credits: 3
• PHIL 331 - Social and Political Philosophy Credits: 3
• PHIL 335 - Philosophy of Law and Justice Credits: 3
• PHIL 337 - Philosophy of Gender and Sex Credits: 3
• PHIL 341 - Philosophy of Religion Credits: 3
• PHIL 343 - Asian Philosophy Credits: 3
• PHIL 351 - Philosophy of Natural Science Credits: 3
• PHIL 373 - Modern Authors and Issues Credits: 3
• PHIL 375 - Existentialism and Phenomenology Credits: 3
• PHIL 376 - Analytic Philosophy Credits: 3
• PHIL 490 - Independent Study Credits: 1-3
• PHIL 498 - Selected Topics Credits: 1-3

Requirements

Slippery Rock University has a strong commitment to student success, and we thoroughly research the academic background of the students who tend to succeed at SRU. We use this information to establish admission guidelines for first year students (new freshmen). We are seeking students who have attained at least a 3.0 GPA at the time of admission, have demonstrated proficiency in college preparatory coursework, and who have average to above average scores on the SAT or ACT.

We will accept either test and use the best scores available. Offers of admission for new freshmen from high school may be made as soon as August following their junior year in high school. High school admitted students are required to submit proof of high school graduation in the form of Official Transcripts upon high school graduation.

In order to apply for admission, the following credentials are required:

• Official High School Transcripts, including a 12th Grade class schedule if applicable

• SAT or ACT Scores

• $30.00 application fee

WAIT LIST: Applicants who do not meet the admission guidelines are still encouraged to apply for admission if they are close to our admission guidelines. Such applicants may be placed on a wait list for admission consideration. Students who are placed on a wait list need to understand it is not the same as being denied admission. Wait list status simply means that an applicant's credentials may require a closer review beyond just the quantitative numbers. Offers of admission will be made to wait listed applicants on regular intervals.

Wait listed applicants should strive to improve their grades and/or test scores and re-submit them to the Office of Admissions as soon as is practical after the next marking period or re-test. Periodic review of the wait list will likely begin in November and offers of admission made on a rolling basis. Our goal is to have most of the wait list offers of admission made in March or April. A final round of wait list offers may be made in mid-May on a space available basis. We encourage students to submit additional information if it improves the academic record.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Alumni Study Travel Fund

  Scholarships for students who are already attending the University of Reading.

• Amsterdam Merit Scholarships

  The University of Amsterdam aims to attract the world’s brightest students to its international classrooms. Outstanding students from outside the European Economic Area can apply for an Amsterdam Merit Scholarship.

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than Slippery Rock University.

The Philosophy program at Slippery Rock University offers students a comprehensive education in the fundamental questions concerning existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language. The program is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and ethical reasoning, preparing graduates for diverse careers or advanced study in philosophy, law, education, or public service. Students in the program are exposed to various philosophical traditions, including Western and non-Western perspectives, fostering a broad and inclusive understanding of philosophical issues.

The curriculum typically includes introductory courses such as Introduction to Philosophy, Logic, Ethics, and History of Philosophy, alongside more specialized classes in areas like metaphysics, epistemology, political philosophy, and philosophy of religion. Students are encouraged to engage in rigorous textual analysis and philosophical argumentation, often participating in seminars and discussion-based classes that emphasize clarity of thought and articulation of ideas. The program also emphasizes writing and communication skills, with assignments designed to cultivate clear, persuasive, and well-reasoned essays and presentations.

Moreover, the Philosophy program at Slippery Rock University supports experiential learning opportunities, including internships, research projects, and participation in philosophical associations or conferences. The program’s faculty comprises experienced scholars dedicated to mentorship and fostering a vibrant intellectual community on campus. Graduates from the program are well-equipped for careers in teaching, law, business, government, or continue their education in graduate or professional schools.

The university’s location and resources enhance the educational experience, providing access to libraries, academic support centers, and cultural events that enrich students’ understanding of philosophical topics. The program also emphasizes ethical and social responsibility, encouraging students to consider philosophical perspectives on contemporary issues such as human rights, environmental sustainability, and technological change. Overall, the Philosophy program at Slippery Rock University aims to cultivate reflective, analytical, and morally aware individuals prepared to contribute thoughtfully to society.