Philosophy and Religious Studies

Requirements for Major

PHIL or RELG 101

Introduction to Philosophy, Religious Studies

Philosophy: Overview of the major areas of philosophic inquiry including the nature of reality, of the human self, of moral value, and of knowledge of God's existence. Notes: Offered every semester.

Religion: Examination of the varying concepts of religion and the methods used in studying religious behavior and belief. Notes: Usually, offered every semester.

PHIL 220 or

PHIL 371

Logic Course

220: Introduction to classical and contemporary logic with special emphasis upon the nature of language used in reasoning and argumentation. Notes: Offered every semester.

371: We focus on the methods and principles for distinguishing correct from incorrect reasoning. Though some of human reasoning is formal and some informal, both types must meet certain criteria in order to be correct. We concentrate on the nature of argumentation, informal fallacies, and deductive & inductive logic used on the Law School Aptitude Test. While we use the LSAT as a methodological tool, the aim is to help students develop analytic skills and the ability to reason accurately. Students obtain a conceptual framework of valid reasoning, and work to identify valid and invalid argument forms. Thus, the course provides for foundational critical thinking and analytic reasoning abilities while simultaneously offering students an opportunity to hone skills needed on the LSAT. Notes: Offered periodically.

PHIL/RELG 390

Philosophy of Religion

An explication and analysis of the major philosophical issues involved in religious claims and commitments.

PHIL/RELG 495

Methods & Research in Philosophy/Religion

This capstone course is an advanced research seminar for students who have already developed a solid background in the academic study of religion by having completed the core courses and 6 hours of electives in their major. The course emphasizes a detailed examination of selected topics and issues in religious studies. As a Writing Intensive course and a capstone seminar, it will include the assessment of core skills and knowledge from the major and will help students improve their writing skills as they develop their own more intense research projects in their own discipline. Notes: Intensive writing course. Offered in fall. Prerequisites: PHIL 101 or RELG 101; PHIL 220 or 225 or 371; PHIL 390 or RELG 390; and 6 additional hours in PHIL or RELG.