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Philosophy is the study of the most fundamental issues concerning reality, knowledge, and value. Philosophy also examines the basic concepts, principles, and arguments of the major intellectual disciplines. Its fields include metaphysics, epistemology, logic, ethics, history of philosophy, political philosophy, aesthetics, philosophy of science, philosophy of mind, philosophy of language, philosophy of law, and philosophy of religion.
The undergraduate program in the Department of Philosophy offers a program of study leading to a Bachelor of Arts degree, as well as a minor. The department also offers, jointly with the Department of History, a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Philosophy of Science.
Graduates of the Department of Philosophy acquire considerable skills in abstract thinking, analysis, and critical writing (constructing and critiquing arguments). Because of these skills, philosophical training is also invaluable in almost any area of life. Recent graduates have been successful in software development, financial planning, journalism, teaching, and aviation. A few go on to graduate school and become professional philosophers.
Philosophy is also a fine undergraduate major for pre-professional students: it is quite suitable for students planning careers in medicine and it is perhaps ideal for those who aspire to work in the legal profession. A degree in philosophy is a wonderful compliment to any major, whether it is in the physical sciences, social sciences, arts, or humanities. Generally speaking, training in philosophy will be valuable in any occupation that requires examination and analysis of problems, critical evaluation of alternative solutions, and rational advocacy of one's conclusions.
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The Philosophy Department at the University of Washington views as equally important its two primary functions at the undergraduate level:
- The provision of training in philosophy to those who elect philosophy as a major.
- The provision of high-quality experience in philosophy to those who take our courses as electives.
Our courses tend to be demanding, and it is characteristic of our department that the original work of students is subjected to careful critical scrutiny. As a result, students can look forward to benefiting from our courses with an increased competence in expository clarity, logical rigor, and analytical skill.
The undergraduate adviser is Gina Gould. She can be found in the
department's main office located in 511 Condon Hall, or reached
by telephone at (206) 543–5855.
If you have a fairly simple question you may contact Gina via e-mail. Her e-mail address is gsgould@u.washington.edu
Students who have completed 10 credits of Philosophy and have a 2.00 cumulative GPA may declare the major at anytime. Simply make an appointment with the department's adviser, and bring your advising file to the appointment. You can sign up for appointments in person in the department's main office in Savery 345, or by telephone at (206) 543–5855.
UW Course Equivalencies for Washington Community Colleges
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