This information is part of the Colgate University catalog, 2023-24.


Major Requirements

A major in philosophy requires nine courses in philosophy, or ten if the philosophy major is a candidate for honors.

Though students may take as many 100- and 200-level courses as they wish, no more than three such courses will count towards the completion of the major. The lone exception is , which can count towards the major in addition to three other 100- or 200-level courses. Though not strictly required of all majors, , is nevertheless strongly recommended for all majors — especially for students contemplating graduate work in philosophy. Only one of the total number of courses may be an independent study.

Among the courses for the major, students must complete the following:

Value Theory (VT) Elective

At least one upper-level course from the following:

Metaphysics and Epistemology (M&E) Elective

At least one upper-level course from the following:

Major Figures (MF) Elective

At least one course from the following, should be completed by the end of the junior year:

Philosophy Seminar

At least one seminar at the 400-level seminar courses, though students are strongly encouraged to take more than one seminar.

GPA Requirement

To qualify for graduation, a minimum grade of C is required in all courses taken toward the major/minor.

Honors

Students interested in pursuing honors can find the additional requirements on the  department page.


Philosophy Department

For more information about the department, including Faculty, transfer credit, awards, etc., please visit the  catalog page.