Philosophy and Humanities Information
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 that teaches technical or professional skills, for example, philosophy with mass communication.
A total of 120 credits is required for graduation. In addition to the General Education Requirements, philosophy majors must meet B.A. or B.S. degree requirements in the College of Arts and Sciences. The choice of B.A. or B.S. degree should be made in connection with a student’s second major, if there is one. Students whose second major is in the humanities should choose the B.A. degree, while students with a second major in the sciences should choose the B.S. degree. A student’s interest in pursuing studies in philosophy at the graduate level is also relevant to the choice of B.A. or B.S. degree. See below. A minor is required of all philosophy majors, except those pursuing a double major. Philosophy students should be aware that most upper-division philosophy courses, excluding those required for the major, are offered only once every other year.
For students interested in preparation for seminary or divinity school, professional graduate education in theology or ministry:
Many students major in philosophy with a religious studies concentration, or minor in religious studies as a way to prepare for seminary or divinity school. (The MDiv - Master of Divinity - is the standard professional degree for students preparing for a career requiring ordination to the ministry or rabbinate.) The American Association of Theological Schools advises students to major in any humanities or social science field. While previous study in the area of religious studies and philosophy is recommended, it is not required for admission to programs of professional study leading to the MDiv. RELI 3240 (“Hebrew Scriptures”) and RELI 3250 (“Greek Scriptures”) are relevant for students interested in the Christian and Jewish traditions. Students aiming to apply to university divinity schools, or whose interest in the study of religions is primarily academic (as opposed to vocational) are strongly advised to earn a B.A. degree with at least a minor in religious studies, including SOAA 3800 (“Religion, Society, and Culture”). It is also important to complete at least 6 hours in German, French, or in a classical language at the 3000 level.
Advising
Students with 0-59 earned credit hours:
Contact the Center for Advisement and Student Excellence (CASE) to schedule an appointment with your advisor. Visit the CASE website (http://www.etsu.edu/cas/case/) or call (423) 439-5602.
Students with 60 or more earned credit hours:
Religious Studies concentration:
Contact Dr. Keith Green [greenj@etsu.edu; (423) 439-4442] for advising.
Honors-in-Discipline Students:
Contact Dr. Jeff Gold [goldj@etsu.edu; (423) 439-5810] for advising.
Transfer Students
Transfer students majoring in philosophy and religious studies should contact the chair of the department for advising as soon as possible.This will ensure that the student’s previous work will be coordinated efficiently with ETSU requirements.
Transfer students seeking a Philosophy major must complete a minimum of nine hours in Philosophy at ETSU with at least a “C” average.
Graduate Study - The department offers some graduate work in philosophy. Further information on graduate programs is contained in the Graduate Catalog.
For general information about the department or courses, contact Dr. Leslie MacAvoy, Chair [macavoyl@etsu.edu; (423) 439-4425].
Graduation Requirements
Graduation in this major/concentration requires a minimum of 120 credits, including General Education requirements, CSCI 1100 , college degree requirements, major requirements, and minor requirements.
Passing the CSCI 1100 proficiency test produces no credit, but satisfies the graduation requirement (see http://www.etsu.edu/cbat/computing/uit/). If the total credits from these areas are less than 120 credits, students may use free electives to complete the requirement.
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