Philosophy thinks about thinking at the most fundamental level: What is real? How can we know it? How do humans fit into the world? What does this mean about how we should we act, individually and collectively? Philosophy emphasizes learning to justify our answers to these questions in the context of reasoned controversy and debate.
First Semester Planning
We recommend that students register for approximately 15 credits each semester and no more than 16 credits in their first semester. Your schedule should be well-balanced and include coursework from a variety of subjects. A diverse schedule will help you begin your studies in potential majors and minors; explore a breadth of new knowledge across departments at Rutgers to meet SAS Core Curriculum learning goals; and survey broader academic interests through elective courses as you work to attain the required 120 degree credits for graduation.
Your schedule will look something like this:
College Writing or English course per placement results (3 credits) Major Exploration course (3-4 credits) Major or Minor Exploration course (3-4 credits) Course beyond main academic interest, such as SAS Core or elective course (3 credits) Course beyond main academic interest, such as SAS Core or elective course (3 credits) Byrne or First-Year Interest Group Seminar (FIGS) (1 credit) Total Credits: 15-16 |
Major Exploration Course(s) Recommended for Incoming First-Year Students
Introductory courses recommended by faculty. Include at least one of these in your schedule:
Course Title |
Course Number |
Credits |
Subject on University Schedule of Classes |
Logic, Reasoning, and Persuation |
01:730:101 |
3 |
Philosophy (730) |
Introduction to Philosophy |
01:730:104 |
4 |
Philosophy (730) |
Current Moral & Social Issues | 01:730:105 | 3 | Philosophy (730) |
Introduction to Ethics |
01:730:107 |
3 |
Philosophy (730) |
Course recommendations beyond this department
Your first year of college is an opportunity for you to explore fields of interest to enhance your understanding of yourself, the world around you, and your main academic and career goals. Think of your schedule as including courses you must take (English, courses to explore potential majors, etc.) and courses you can take (everything else!) All courses are part of your degree - if necessary, review the components of the SAS degree on this page.
Through these degree components, you will curate your own unique educational experience - but we understand that this level of flexibility and freedom can feel overwhelming for new students. Like a recommendation based on a book or TV show you enjoyed, the information below can help you identify related courses to consider in your first semester.
Course Title |
Course Number |
Credits |
Subject on University Schedule of Classes |
Introdoction to Formal Reasoning and Decision Making | 01:730:109 | 3 | Philosophy (730) |
Introduction to Metaphysics | 01:730:215 | 3 | Philosophy (730) |
Introduction to Philosophy of the Mind | 01:730:218 | 3 | Philosophy (730) |
Rhymes and Reasons: Hip Hop and Philosophy | 01:730:256 | 3 | Philosophy (730) |
Additional Information Beyond the Classroom
For your first semester, we want you to focus on selecting appropriate courses, begin to understand the expectations and rigor of college, and identify resources to help you succeed at Rutgers. But, we also know that it is important to provide information for future planning.
In addition to the information below, students interested in exploring possible career options may find this resource from the Office of Career Exploration and Success helpful - you'll find that a degree in this subject prepares you for a wide variety of career options!
What opportunities exist in the department for beyond the classroom learning (internships, research, field work, etc.)?
The Philosophy Club www.philosophy.rutgers.edu/philosophy-club
Independent study www.philosophy.rutgers.edu/independent-study
Senior Honors thesis www.philosophy.rutgers.edu/departmental-honors-in-philosophy
Phi Sigma Tau www.rutgersundergradphil.weebly.com/phi-sigma-tau-honor-society
Areté: The Undergraduate Journal of Philosophy http://www.philosophy.rutgers.edu/undergraduate-program/arete-philosophy-journal/165-arete/559-philosophy-journal
Is there a departmental Honors track or program?
Yes
Please provide information on the careers obtained by recent graduates:
Majors and minors in philosophy have gone on to successful careers in virtually every field—law, business, medicine, communications, civil service, computer science, the arts, social work, and across the sciences. Why? Philosophical study touches on virtually every human endeavor, explores some of the deepest questions humanity has pondered, and does so by emphasizing skills of analytic thinking and communication that are prized in everyday life and all lines of work.