College of Arts and Sciences
Department of Philosophy
www.kent.edu/philosophy

Contact Information

• Program Coordinator: Kim Garchar, Ph.D. | kgarchar@kent.edu | 330-672-0276
• Speak with an Advisor

Fully Offered

• Delivery:
  • In person
• Location:
  • Kent Campus

Description

The Philosophy minor helps students develop skills such as critical thinking, careful reading and analysis of texts, argumentative and analytical writing, creative problem-solving, effective communication and global literacy — all of which are vital to success in a wide range of professions.

The minor provides excellent preparation for graduate school entrance exams (such as the GRE, LSAT and GMAT) and enhances the career preparation students obtain in their major field.

Philosophy minors develop these important skills while being introduced to a fascinating discipline which considers basic, timeless questions such as

• "What is the nature of reality?"
• "What (if anything) can I know with certainty?"
• "What kind of life should I live?"

Admission Requirements

Admission to a minor is open to students declared in a bachelor’s degree, the A.A.B. or A.A.S. degree or the A.T.S. degree (not Individualized Program major). Students declared only in the A.A. or A.S. degree or the A.T.S. degree in Individualized Program may not declare a minor. Students may not pursue a minor and a major in the same discipline.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:

1. Read, write and think critically and analytically.
2. Consider and analyze differing viewpoints and various sides of an issue.
3. Construct strong arguments and express them verbally and in writing.
4. Think creatively and see alternative solutions to problems.
5. Communicate effectively in both personal and professional settings.
6. Demonstrate meaningful global literacy.
7. Continue on a path of lifelong learning and inquiry, whether in graduate school or independently.
8. Demonstrate a broad knowledge of the history of philosophy and of important contemporary questions, as well as a deeper, more specialized understanding of selected philosophical figures, issues and/or areas of inquiry.

Program Requirements

Minor Requirements

¹

PHIL 40093, PHIL 49996 and PHIL 49999 may not be counted toward the minor.

Graduation Requirements

• Students must complete at least two upper-division (30000 or 40000 level) courses in the minor at Kent State on a graded basis (A-F).

• Minimum 6 credit hours in the minor must be upper-division coursework (30000 and 40000 level).
• Minimum 6 credit hours in the minor must be outside of the course requirements for any major or other minor the student is pursuing.
• Minimum 50 percent of the total credit hours for the minor must be taken at Kent State (in residence).