Philosophy is the study, and critical analysis, of fundamental human concerns. It addresses questions ranging from metaphysics (e.g., what is free will?), to epistemology (e.g., what distinguishes genuine knowledge from accidentally true belief?), to ethics (e.g., what makes a society just?). Students in the Philosophy BS will receive a broad philosophical education, including coursework in all major philosophical subfields. They will develop skills in critical thinking, argumentative writing, logical analysis, and effective communication. These skills prepare students for careers in law, government, business, public service, administrative work, or graduate school.
To receive a bachelor's degree at Northern Arizona University, you must complete at least 120 units of credit that minimally includes a major, the general studies requirements, and university requirements as listed below.
The full policy can be viewed here.
In addition to University Requirements:
Students may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.
| Minimum Units for Completion | 120 |
| Major GPA | 2.0 |
| Highest Mathematics Required | MAT 114 |
| University Honors Program | Optional |
| AZ Transfer Students complete AGEC-A | Recommended |
| Progression Plan Link | Not Available |
Purpose Statement
Philosophy is the study, and critical analysis, of fundamental human concerns. It addresses questions ranging from metaphysics (e.g., what is free will?), to epistemology (e.g., what distinguishes genuine knowledge from accidentally true belief?), to ethics (e.g., what makes a society just?). Students in the Philosophy BS will receive a broad philosophical education, including coursework in all major philosophical subfields. They will develop skills in critical thinking, argumentative writing, logical analysis, and effective communication. These skills prepare students for careers in law, government, business, public service, administrative work, or graduate school.
Student Learning Outcomes
This major requires 36 units distributed as follows:
Take the following 36 units:
Required Philosophy Coursework (24 units)
Philosophy Electives (12 units)
Students enrolled in this plan may not enroll in or pursue the following due to the number of overlapping units:
Additional coursework is required if, after you have met the previously described requirements, you have not yet completed a total of 120 units of credit.
You may take these remaining courses from any of the academic areas, using these courses to pursue your specific interests and goals. You may also use prerequisites or transfer credits as electives if they weren't used to meet major, minor, or General Studies Requirements.
We encourage you to consult with your advisor to select the courses that will be most advantageous to you.
Some courses may have prerequisites. For prerequisite information, click on the course or see your advisor.