Philosophy and Humanities

P.O. Box 70656
Phone: (423) 439-4425
Web Address: www.etsu.edu/cas/philosophy/

Philosophy is an attempt to reason clearly and critically about all areas of experience: science, religion, art, politics, and morality. Its purpose is to understand and evaluate our most basic beliefs and values, then to integrate them into a coherent view of ourselves and the world.

Philosophy is an appropriate preparation for vocations that require a broad liberal arts education and skills in clear, creative thinking. Such vocations include law, government service, writing, the ministry, medicine, and many types of positions in business. It is especially attractive when paired with another major which teaches technical or professional skills, for example, philosophy with mass communication. In addition to the General Education Requirements, philosophy majors must meet degree requirements in the College of Arts and Sciences. Philosophy majors may earn a B.A. or a B.S. degree. A minor is required of all philosophy majors.

Philosophy students should be aware that most upper-division philosophy courses (excluding those required for the major) are offered only once every other year.

Transfer Students

The department will approve a major program in philosophy only after nine credits have been completed at the university with at least a C average (for a minor, six credits must be completed). Courses in religion taken at another institution shall count toward a major or minor only if they directly parallel courses offered by this department.

Graduate Study

The department offers some graduate work in philosophy. Further information on graduate programs is contained in the Graduate Catalog.