Programs in Philosophy
Introduction
The BS in Computer Science and Philosophy is an interdisciplinary major in collaboration with the Department of Computer Science, College of Engineering. Students in the major have full access to the resources and career advising in both the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and the College of Engineering. The curriculum combines core areas in Philosophy and core areas in computer science. Different from a traditional major in philosophy or computer science, this hybrid major utilizes the conceptual frameworks, practical skills, and critical knowledge from both disciplines to deepen understanding and application at their interface: through computational tools, we better explore questions about mind, knowledge, and reasoning; through rigorous philosophical analysis, we take a critical, active part in shaping the ethical foundations, logical structures, and conceptual underpinnings of computing and artificial intelligence.
The BA in Philosophy provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental questions concerning knowledge, reality, ethics, and human existence, as well as the methods of reasoning used to investigate them. Combining classical traditions and contemporary applications, the BA program aims to equip students with the skills to analyze arguments, evaluate competing perspectives, and engage thoughtfully with enduring and emerging philosophical problems. The program also aims to develop critical thinking skills, foster ethical reflection and clear communication, and promote interdisciplinary approaches to the study of ideas, values, and human experience.
If you already have a major that you love, you have the option to add Philosophy as a Minor to your major. Philosophy explores fundamental questions about knowledge, ethics, mind, society, and existence, highly relevant to law, medicine, public policy, business ethics, computer science and AI, cognitive science, political science, education, journalism, religious studies, environmental studies, healthcare, and professional fields that demand careful reasoning, ethical judgment, and clear argumentation (such as legal practice, bioethics, and policy analysis).