Getting Started
College: HFA
The information below is meant to guide students in getting started with the Philosophy Major and choosing appropriate courses. Please refer to the Major page located in the left menu bar to learn about the full major requirements, and consult with an Advisor in the Philosophy Department.
How to Explore/Get Started in the Major
It's a good idea to start with some introductory courses. You only get three 100-level courses toward the Major, though, and Logic (110) is required, so you'll have some choices to make from courses like Intro to Philosophy (100), Intro to Ethics (160), Philosophy of Technology (175), Death and the Meaning of Life (180), or one of our other ethics courses: Business Ethics (163), Medical Ethics (164); Environmental Ethics (166).
Suggested General Education Courses
All Undergraduates are required to satisfy the General Education Requirements. Guidelines for students are available at https://www.umass.edu/gened. Students should choose a wide variety of Gen Ed courses, providing breadth of experience.
How to Declare/Change into the Major
For current & admitted students: This major is unrestricted, which means any student may declare the major. Unrestricted majors may still have an entry process such as meeting with an advisor or attending an informational meeting.
See the departmental Advisors early and often: https://www.umass.edu/philosophy/undergraduate-advising
To declare the Major, go to the department website: https://www.umass.edu/philosophy/bachelor-arts-philosophy
Summary of Requirements for the Major
10 courses required, 7 at the 300 level or above. Refer to the Major page located in the left menu bar to learn more.
Also consult the Philosophy Department website at https://www.umass.edu/philosophy
Is there a minor?
Yes – A Minor is available! We also offer three Certificates: PPE (Philosophy, Politics, and Economics), Medical Humanities, and Logic. Refer to the Minor page located in the left menu bar to learn more.
For further information, contact a departmental advisor:
Vanessa de Harven
Undergraduate Program Director
South College E425
vdeharven@umass.edu
Department website: www.umass.edu/philosophy