Philosophy, B.A.

Learning Goals and Student Learning Outcomes

The following goals and learning outcomes have been established for students pursuing a degree in philosophy:
Critical thinking

• Demonstrate a thorough understanding of original texts
• Use sound arguments and strong reasoning to support assertions
• Make careful selection and presentation of evidence and argument to support assertions, and (when applicable) include carefully constructed refutations of the opposing view

Critical writing

• Demonstrate good structure, succinct expression of ideas and superb writing skills

Knowledge

• Demonstrate knowledge of specific periods of historical philosophy, specific major currents of the 20th century philosophical investigation and several methodologies employed by philosophers

Social/global awareness

• Exposure to issues of culture, ethnicity and gender
• Cultivate a global perspective
• Examine and critically assess normative standards governing social relations, practices and institutions, including a wide range of human activities dependent upon value judgments