COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Philosophy at Wichita State University requires a minimum of 120 credit hours and provides students with a rigorous education in critical thinking, logic, ethics, and the history of philosophical ideas. Along with completing the university’s General Education requirements and the Fairmount College of Liberal Arts and Sciences competency areas, students must complete at least 30 credit hours in philosophy, including a minimum of 15 upper-division credit hours at the 300 level or above. The curriculum begins with foundational courses in logic and ethics, helping students develop strong analytical reasoning, argument evaluation, and ethical decision-making skills. Students also complete a capstone course that integrates their philosophical studies and demonstrates their ability to apply philosophical methods to complex issues. The program includes substantial study of the history of philosophy through courses covering Ancient Greek philosophy, modern philosophy, nineteenth- and twentieth-century thought, and Chinese philosophy. To broaden global perspectives, students must also complete coursework in world philosophy, exploring traditions such as Indigenous philosophies, Japanese philosophy, Latin American and LatinX thought, Asian philosophy, and contemporary Chinese philosophy. Additional philosophy electives allow students to tailor their studies to interests such as political philosophy, philosophy of science, religion, law, mind, language, or social justice. Philosophy majors meet regularly with departmental advisors to plan their academic progress and career goals. The program emphasizes clear writing, effective communication, research, ethical reasoning, and the ability to analyze complex problems from multiple perspectives. These highly transferable skills make philosophy graduates valuable in a wide variety of professions, including law, business, government, public policy, education, journalism, consulting, nonprofit leadership, and public service. The degree is also excellent preparation for graduate and professional studies such as law school, public administration, philosophy, political science, and other advanced academic programs. Wichita State’s applied learning approach further enhances student development by providing opportunities to connect philosophical concepts with real-world issues and professional experiences. Graduates leave the program equipped with intellectual flexibility, strong problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to think critically about important questions facing individuals, organizations, and society, making them well prepared for both career success and lifelong learning.