BLS in Philosophy

The Bachelor of Liberal Studies (BLS) in Philosophy focuses on Western philosophy and a thorough understanding of the systematic foundation of philosophical views. Philosophy degree students learn logic, languages, and the exegesis of texts and arguments.

The program centers on the history of philosophy; the history and philosophy of science, mathematics, and logic; and the philosophy of religion. The faculty is especially well versed in ancient and early modern philosophy; the Scottish Enlightenment; German Idealism; phenomenology; Continental philosophy; analytic philosophy; American philosophy; and the philosophy of logic and mathematics.

Learning Outcomes

• An in-depth understanding of the major philosophical thinkers and major philosophical movements over time.
• Exposure to the major philosophical problems of human existence, and the ability to discuss them on an intellectually informed basis, and to review them critically.
• A broad-based education in the liberal arts, including exposure to the humanities, the social sciences, and the natural sciences, that may be considered complete in itself or suitable as preparation for graduate study.

Admissions Information

For current admissions information, please visit the Metropolitan College website.

Degree Requirements

Candidates for the bachelor’s degree at Metropolitan College are required to complete a minimum of 32 courses (128 credits), including Hub requirements, major requirements, related courses, and electives.

Hub Requirements

All BU undergraduate students, including transfer students, will pursue coursework in the BU Hub, the University’s general education program that is integrated into the entire undergraduate experience. BU Hub requirements can be satisfied in a number of ways, including coursework in and beyond the major as well as through cocurricular activities. Students majoring in Philosophy may ordinarily, through related coursework in the major, satisfy BU Hub requirements in Philosophical Inquiry and Life’s Meanings, Ethical Reasoning, and Critical Thinking.

Major and Related Courses

A total of 16 courses (64 credits), completed with a grade of C or higher, is required.

Required Courses

Nine courses (36 credits), including the following:

• MET PH 101 Basic Problems of Philosophy or MET PH 110 Great Philosophers
• MET PH 160 Reasoning and Argumentation
• MET PH 300 History of Ancient Philosophy
• MET PH 310 History of Modern Philosophy
• One philosophy course (4 credits) at the 400 level

The remaining four philosophy courses must be chosen with the advice and approval of the department coordinator. Students wishing to pursue a philosophy program must cross-register and take upper-level philosophy and/or related courses in the College of Arts & Sciences at day tuition rates.

Related Courses

Choose seven courses (28 credits) with the advice and approval of the department coordinator. At least three of the courses must be at the 300 level or above. Students are encouraged to plan programs that combine philosophy with other disciplines in the humanities, or in the social and natural sciences.

Electives

Electives are chosen with the advice of an academic counselor. The number of electives varies depending on transfer credit.