Philosophy
1121A Skinner Building, 301-405-5689
www.philosophy.umd.edu
The study of philosophy develops students' reasoning and expository skills and increases their understanding of the foundations of human knowledge and value. The department views philosophy as an activity rather than a body of doctrine and students can expect to receive training in clear thinking, inventive synthesis, and precise expression. For some, this will serve as preparation for graduate studies in philosophy. However, philosophical skills are useful in professions such as law, medicine, government, business management, and in any field that demands intellectual rigor. The department offers a wide range of courses, including several that deal with the philosophy of various disciplines outside philosophy itself.
Philosophy Minors must take at least 18 hours (six courses) in philosophy, not counting Internship courses (PHIL 386). All courses counted toward the minor must be passed with grades of "C-" or better. An overall GPA of 2.0 in the minor is required for graduation.
The six philosophy courses must be distributed as follows:
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at least three courses numbered 300 or above;
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at least one course numbered 200 or above in the history of pre-twentieth-century philosophy;
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at least one course numbered 200 or above in value theory (including aesthetics and political philosophy as well as ethics);
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at least one course numbered 200 or above in metaphysics or epistemology (including philosophy of science, philosophy of mind, and philosophy of religion, as well as metaphysics and theory of knowledge).
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