Philosophy

Major & Minor Requirements

The courses offered by the Carthage Philosophy Department emphasize both the mastery of the material and the development of skills, such as patient, careful reading; recognition, analysis, and evaluation of arguments; and the clear presentation and justification of one's own beliefs. Students thus become more capable of thinking independently.

Please note: Current students should follow the printed version of the College Catalog, and work with their advisors and the department chair to ensure all requirements are met.

The Philosophy Major

A major in philosophy consists of 36 credits, including PHL 1000 Introduction to Philosophy and PHL 1100 Contemporary Ethical Issues. With the consent of the chairperson of the Department of Philosophy, courses in other departments may be counted for a philosophy major. See a full list of philosophy courses.

The Philosophy Minor

A minor in philosophy consists of 24 credit hours in this discipline. With the chairperson's permission, certain courses with substantive philosophical content from other disciplines may count toward the minor. See a list of philosophy courses.

Award for Philosophical Excellence

A book is presented to the student(s) who has demonstrated outstanding performance in philosophy course work during the academic year. The department faculty will nominate and evaluate student(s) based on outstanding philosophical writing and demonstrated excellence in the classroom. The winner's name will be added to the department's plaque.

Academic Resources

Prospective Students


Carthage In-Depth

Carthage Symposium

Art Meets Biology. Students photograph biodiversity in Tucson, Ariz.


J-Term

A special month-long period of study in January to experiment, create and dream. Read more ...


The Book That Changed My Life

Carthage professors give presentations on a book that changed their way of thinking. Read more.