 |
What
courses absolutely must be taken during the first year (or the first semester)? |
| |
The Philosophy major does not require any specific sequence of courses in the first
year. However, there are several good "first courses" for
potential majors. In addition to the department's 1st year Seminars,
"Problems of Philosophy" (in the second semester) and Phil 141,
"History of Ancient Philosophy" are both good first courses for the
major. Some majors begin with Analytic Reasoning or Personal
Values, but these are general education courses with less specific relevance to
the major program.
|
|
What
courses should first year students steer clear of? (In history, for
example, all courses are open to all students, but some 200-level courses
are not suitable for all first year students.) |
| |
Some 100 courses (like Medical Ethics) exclude 1st year students. Any 200 level
course will assume some
familiarity with Philosophy.
|
|
If
key intro courses are filled, are there good alternatives? |
| |
If you are closed out of a philosophy course, talk to the instructor. We
commonly move some wait-listed students. Some popular courses are offered second semester as well. Check with the
department secretary and visit the second semester instructor to express your interest. This can help you
gain a placement for the second
semester.
|
|
Does your department recommend that first year students explore the PLS during their
first year? Or should first year students focus more on fulfilling
prerequisites for the major? |
| |
We recommend that students interested in philosophy work on PLS courses as
soon as possible. Students with
a broad basic education in the sciences, social sciences, and humanities
gain more benefit from the major
courses they take later.
|
|
If first year students have specific questions about your department, whom should
they contact? |
| |
Any faculty member in residence can answer such questions. If you do not know
any of the department members, the chair is usually a good first stop.
|
|
How and when does your department assign advisors for declared majors? |
| |
Students select their own major advisor by asking a faculty member to fill that role.
|
|
What courses in related departments do your majors usually take? |
| |
There is a wide range of courses that philosophy majors can take. These choices
depend on the student's specific interests and issues. |
