Philosophy
At RWU, our Philosophy students learn to think critically and build logical arguments: about our assumptions and values as a society, about the positions of history’s major philosophers and about the nature of knowledge itself. The writing, reading and problem-solving skills you develop through discussions, debates and your senior thesis will lay a foundation for success in fields like law and academia.
Degree Requirements
To read more about our academic offerings, or to view full course descriptions, please refer to our University Catalog.
Student Learning Outcomes
All Students completing the Philosophy program will demonstrate the following:
- Read with comprehension philosophical texts relevant to the specific courses;
- Define key terms of the philosophical vocabulary relevant to the particular course;
- Analyze texts, draw inferences, and support claims using internal evidence;
- Practice critical reading and thinking;
- Distinguish different areas of philosophy and philosophical methodology;
- Understand some of the diverse assumptions and values that shape our experiences and/or attitudes of the world;
- Write cogent analytical and critical essays tied to textual evidence, explaining a philosopher’s position, presenting the philosopher’s arguments, exposing weaknesses in the arguments; five pages for lower level and intermediate courses; ten pages for advanced courses.
- Use secondary sources appropriately in reinforcing and extending arguments.
These outcomes while not specifically enumerated in the course catalog, are realized and achieved through the course requirements in the major as listed on pages 189‐190 of the University Catalog (2011‐2012). The first two are key outcomes for the gateway course, Introduction to Philosophy. The third outcome is derived from the goals of the Phil 103, Logic. The fourth and fifth outcomes are the focus of Phil 203 through Phil 401‐the topic/theme specific courses. Eight of those courses are required for the major. The last two outcomes are the focus of the two‐semester senior seminar.
Passion and Drive
Virgina Albert, RWU Class of 2017Recent graduate Virgina Albert, like many RWU students, shows great passion for working on community issues and using her education to positively impact the lives of individuals and families.
Read full storyJuris Doctor/Bachelor's 3+3 Accelerated Program (J.D.)
Earn your bachelor’s and juris doctor degrees in six years through RWU’s Three-Plus-Three Law program. You’ll get a jump-start on your J.D. by integrating law courses into your undergraduate studies and completing undergraduate requirements in your first year of law school. Accepted students will take first-year courses in the School of Law along with legal electives to fulfill undergraduate fourth-year requirements. Interested students must indicate their intent to pursue a 3+3 pathway early in their undergraduate studies for curriculum planning and advising.