Overview
The study of philosophy encourages students to think deeply and critically about reality, our relationship to the world, reasoning, and values. The major offers core courses in metaphysics (the study of what fundamentally exists), epistemology (the study of knowledge), logic (the study of reasoning), ethics (the study of obligation & well-being), aesthetics (the study of art & beauty), and the history of philosophy.
Because of its emphasis on critical thinking, reading, and writing skills, Philosophy pairs well with virtually any other program of study.
Fast Facts
- Develop critical-thinking skills essential to a good life.
- Internationally renowned philosophers visit annually.
- Philosophy alumni pursue a wide range of careers.
- Philosophy majors excel on the GMAT, the LSAT, and the GRE.
What You'll Study
Learn about the core areas and history of philosophy, and develop your own philosophical interests.
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Program Curriculum
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Refer to the Courses of Study Bulletin for full program requirements. See tentative future course offerings and a recommended course sequence Philosophy bachelor of arts degree.
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Search for Classes
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Use Search for Sections in TigerPAWS for the most current class offering information.
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Courses of Study Bulletin
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Candidates for a baccalaureate degree must fulfill the requirements for a major as listed in the courses of study bulletin. The courses of study bulletin is the official source of information regarding degree requirements, academic policies, and academic majors and minors at Trinity University.
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Pathways Curriculum
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Students must complete the Pathways Curriculum in order to receive a baccalaureate degree. The Pathways Curriculum has six curricular requirements, and three optional elements that provide the foundation in the liberal arts and sciences for all the bachelor’s degrees awarded by Trinity University. Through these requirements, students acquire the necessary skills and disciplinary perspectives to navigate complex questions at Trinity and in their post-graduate lives.
Knowledge, Reality, and the Good Life
An introduction to philosophy, emphasizing central issues in epistemology, metaphysics, and ethics.
Epistemology
A critical study of problems in the theory of knowledge, such as the difference between knowledge and belief, the possibility of knowledge, and the conditions under which a belief is rational.
Philosophy for Children
An experiential-learning class in which Trinity students think about philosophical pedagogy, the politics of education, and theories of childhood, and then lead philosophy discussions at a local elementary school.
Biomedical Ethics
A study of ethical issues raised by the practice of medicine and biomedical research, such as physicians’ obligations and patients’ rights, experimentation on humans and animals, assisted suicide, euthanasia, abortion and parental rights, genetic engineering, and social justice in health care.
Philosophy of Film
An investigation of several philosophical issues raised by “arts of the moving image” – notably film and videogames – such as the nature and artistic status of such works, how we understand and emotionally respond to them, and what makes such a work narrative, fiction, or interactive.
Social and Political Philosophy
A critical study of philosophical views about society and politics, with particular attention to the concepts of sovereignty, obligation, rights, justice, equality, and liberty.
View all courses
For more information and a description of each class please visit the COSB website.
Psychology (Minor)
Psychology (B.S.)
Political Science (Minor)
Political Science (B.A.)
Teaching (Minor)
English (B.A.)
English (Minor)
Biology (B.S.)
Biology (Minor)
Physics (Minor)
Physics (B.A.)
Physics (B.S.)
Mathematics (B.A.)
Mathematics (Minor)
Neuroscience (B.S.)
Neuroscience (B.S.)
Linguistics (Minor)
Communication (B.A.)
Communication (Minor)
Strategic Communication (Minor)
Women's and Gender Studies (Minor)
Comparative Literature (Minor)
Creative Writing (Minor)
Human Communication (B.A.)
Human Communication (Minor)
Religion (B.A.)
Religion (Minor)
History (B.A.)
History (Minor)
Ancient Mediterranean Studies (Minor)
Art (B.A.)
Art History (B.A.)
Art History (Minor)
Art and Art History (Minor)
Theatre (B.A.)
Theatre (Minor)
Film Studies (Minor)
Environmental Studies (Minor)
Environmental Studies (B.A.)
Faculty
Faculty bring a wide variety of perspectives to the field.
The Philosophy faculty have a wide variety of interests, including metaphysics, epistemology, theoretical and applied ethics, aesthetics, the history of philosophy, and public philosophy (e.g., philosophy for children).
Student Opportunities
Thinking outside the box – and the classroom
Faculty encourage students to attend philosophy conferences and submit their work to reputable undergraduate journals. Undergraduate philosophy...
Philosophy majors regularly study abroad in locations all over the world.
Philosophy for Children
In a unique service-learning class, students learn the theory and practice of teaching philosophy to children. Students...
The student-led Philosophy Club is open to all Trinity students and meets regularly to hold discussions and socialize with other students interested...
Annual Hemlock Award for Best Philosophical Essay
Each year, the Philosophy faculty recognize outstanding philosophical work by awarding the...
Stieren Arts Enrichment Series
The annual Stieren Arts Enrichment Series hosts an array of artistic talent, but also features an internationally...
When You Graduate
Philosophy prepares you for a good life – in every respect
Philosophy builds skills in critical thinking, comprehension, problem solving, and oral and written communication that are essential for any career, and also enables you to critically consider the values that will guide you through life.
Careers
The careers of Trinity philosophy majors are diverse and wide-ranging. Some majors pursue graduate degrees in a range of fields, including philosophy, business, medicine, and law. But the skills gained through the study of philosophy are valuable for any career (and much of the rest of life!).
Career Areas:
- Academia
- Business
- Communications
- Healthcare
- Information Science
- Journalism
- Law
- Policy
- Social Work
Take the next step
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