Mar 28, 2024  
2019-2020 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2019-2020 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Philosophy Pathway Guide


Click here for more information about transferring to SMU.

Preparation for Transfer as a Philosophy Major


The following sequences are suggested courses to take in your semesters prior to transferring to SMU as a philosophy major. For students attending a Texas public community college or university, Texas Common Course Numbers (TCCNS) are listed.  If you are transferring from a college or university outside of Texas, click on the SMU course for a course description which may be used to select/compare courses at your current institution.

UC listings refer to SMU’s University Curriculum, which all undergraduates are required to complete. Refer to the University Curriculum Transfer Guide for a list of courses satisfying UC components. Interactive equivalency guides organized by transfer institution are available on the Transfer and Transition Services’ website.

Save all of your course syllabi!

B.A. in Philosophy


Semester II


Semester III


Semester IV


Note


*The second language requirement may be satisfied by (1) transferring two terms of college courses in the same world language, (2) placing out of four terms of a world language by taking an SMU placement test or through AP or IB credit, or (3) being literate in a native language other than English.

The Philosophy Department


The Department of Philosophy  offers a B.A. in Philosophy  and minors in Philosophy  and in Ethics .  Courses include core areas of philosophy and specialized topics, such as animal rights, philosophy of law, and philosophy of mind.  Students focus on the development of reasoning skills, understanding arguments and viewpoints, critical evaluation of varied perspectives, and clear written and oral communication.  The critical thinking skills benefit students in many disciplines and are especially useful as preparation for law school.

The Philosophy faculty members are distinguished scholars whose research is regularly published in leading journals and presses.  The department’s speaker series regularly brings prominent philosophers from the U.S. and abroad to campus. In recent years, the department has hosted conferences on Free Will and on Consciousness and the Self, as well as two workshops in Ethical Theory.

The Philosophy Club and Awards


The student-led Philosophy Club regularly sponsors guest speakers to address the SMU community on topics of contemporary philosophical interest. The club also holds student discussion groups and other activities.  The department annually recognizes excellence in student philosophy work with the awarding of the Huskins Philosophy Essay Award and the Hausman Award for Excellence in the History of Western Philosophy.

Majoring and Minoring in Philosophy


One major and two minors are offered by the department:

Preparing for a Smooth Transfer


A seamless transfer to SMU and the Philosophy program requires planning. This guide is designed to assist you in planning your transition. Taking the time to prepare for your move lays the best foundation for success. The following are a few important points to remember:

  • The second language requirement of the University Curriculum may be satisfied by 1) transferring two terms of college courses in the same world language, 2) placing out of four terms of world language by taking an SMU placement test or through AP or IB credit, or 3) being literate in a native language other than English.
  • SMU accepts AP scores of 4 or 5.
  • Work on the University Curriculum prior to transfer is highly encouraged.
  • Compare Course Descriptions found in SMU’s University Catalog to course descriptions at your current institution to maximize your awarded transfer credits.
  • For additional information on the Philosophy major, visit our department homepage or call 214-768-2118.
  • For more information about transferring to SMU, click here or call 214-768-3417.

SMU Degree


A degree from SMU is typically comprised of a minimum of 122 hours, 60 of which must be completed through SMU, 42 of which must be in courses at the 3000 and higher levels. Components of the degree include:

  • Courses in your major.
  • Courses required for the University Curriculum (UC).  
  • Elective courses.  These electives may be used to add a second major or minor.

The University Curriculum (UC)


The University Curriculum is required of all undergraduate students and consists of three main components: 

  1. Foundations - 6 hours of Discernment and Discourse courses, 3 hours of Quantitative Foundation courses, 2 hours of Personal Responsibility and Wellness courses, proficiency in a second language and 3 hours of a Ways of Knowing course (offered only at SMU)
  2. Breadth and Depth - 7 Breadth and 3 Depth courses which may double count with majors and minors
  3. Proficiencies and Experiences - 6 Proficiencies and Experiences requirements, met through Breadth and Depth coursework or approved, noncredit activities.

Apply Now!


Click here for more information about transferring to SMU.