Department of Philosophy — The Department

The Philosophy Department offers three major programs, a minor, and a program of study in philosophy and law. Each is intended for students with special interests in philosophy.

The Standard Major provides sound training for those who anticipate graduate work in the field or wish to acquire a general and comprehensive knowledge of the basic historical and systematic themes in philosophy. The major in Ethics and Social and Political Philosophy is intended for students who have a specific concern with questions of value as they apply to individuals, society, and the state. It provides a broad outlook on these problems and attempted solutions to them, but should not in general be considered the best preparation for graduate work in philosophy. It will, however, serve as a strong liberal arts base for careers in politics, the law, or social service. The third program is the major in Philosophy and Public Policy. This course of study is designed for students interested in the application of philosophical ideas and tools to the analysis of current public policy debates. Its interdisciplinary approach combines a solid preparation in political philosophy with courses from this and other departments that introduce particular public policy issues. This major prepares students for eventual careers in government, politics, and law.

The minor in philosophy, open to any UMass Boston student, offers students the opportunity to get acquainted with some important issues in this field while pursuing another major. The program of study in philosophy and law is also open to all UMass Boston students as a supplement to their majors. This interdisciplinary program provides strong preparation and important background for students interested in attending law school or pursuing law-related careers. See the “Philosophy and Law” section of this publication.

The Philosophy Department attempts to provide meaningful and effective advising. Each of the major programs has a special advising plan and students are urged to take advantage of it. A student who intends to sign up as a major in one of these programs should contact the department chairperson, who will discuss the advising component of the program.