B.A. in Philosophy
The Philosophy Program provides in-depth learning about the aims, methods and texts of philosophy. Philosophical study fosters openness of mind, development of reasoned opinions, and critical and creative thinking and writing skills. It leads to deeper understanding of intellectual history and engagement with the meaning and value of human life.
Students ask questions such as: What is right and wrong? What is real? Does God exist? Are we free? What is art? How do gender, race and class affect us? How should we organize government? What is law?
Minor in Philosophy
The minor in Philosophy gives students a chance to add the depth and range of philosophical thought to their major concentration in another discipline. The minor can be combined with any baccalaureate degree.
Capstone Project
Every senior Philosophy major completes a Capstone project, a thesis which is the culmination of his or her work in philosophy and allows the demonstration of a deep understanding of a body of knowledge and perspectives informed by that knowledge. Visit My Capstone Experience to find out more about student capstones.
Philosophy majors design, create and present their Capstone projects to the college community and area residents during the Susan Colby Colgate Scholars Symposium each spring.
Program Outcomes
The Philosophy faculty work to achieve these program outcomes:
Students will understand a set of major philosophical figures, arguments, and ideas from various historical periods and disciplinary areas
Students will learn to think logically, critically and creatively about a range of philosophical problems and questions
Students will learn to make written arguments in which they engage in a close analysis of texts
Students will participate in philosophical discussions in which different claims are presented and compared
Students will broaden their horizons and deepen their self-knowledge through a dialogical engagement with texts, faculty and other students.
Additional Curricula Opportunities…
Students who go on to further studies in law, medicine, veterinary practice and physical therapy can combine any Colby-Sawyer major with a course of study that will prepare them for the next academic step.
