COURSE CURRICULUM

The Philosophy BS curriculum at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) for 2025–2026 is a 120-credit, four-year program designed to develop strong skills in critical thinking, logical reasoning, ethical analysis, and effective communication. In the first year, students begin with foundational philosophy courses such as Ancient Philosophy, Foundations of Moral Philosophy, and Modern Philosophy, along with Symbolic Logic. These courses introduce major philosophical traditions and basic reasoning skills. Students also complete general education requirements in areas like art, mathematics, writing, and global perspectives, helping them build a broad academic foundation.In the second year, the curriculum becomes more structured around philosophy and supporting academic disciplines. Students take professional or technical core courses, along with philosophy program electives and additional general education requirements in mathematics, social sciences, and natural science inquiry. This stage helps students strengthen analytical skills and begin exploring specific areas of philosophical interest.During the third year, students engage in more advanced coursework, including additional professional core classes and philosophy track courses that allow specialization in a chosen area of philosophy. They also complete electives across disciplines and continue general education in scientific principles and other areas. This year emphasizes deeper analysis, argument development, and interdisciplinary learning.In the fourth year, students complete advanced capstone-level work. They take a philosophy seminar course focused on intensive writing and research, followed by a senior thesis in philosophy, where they conduct independent research on a chosen topic. Additional track courses, general education immersion requirements, and electives allow further academic customization and depth.Overall, the program provides a strong balance of foundational philosophy, specialized study, and independent research. It prepares students for careers or graduate study in fields such as law, education, public policy, ethics, business, and research by developing strong reasoning, writing, and analytical skills.