Minor in Philosophy
Hours: 20 On-Campus Online
About
Students pursuing a Minor in Philosophy at Fort Hays State University engage in a curriculum designed to develop critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and analytical skills. The program offers a broad exploration of philosophical thought, spanning from ancient traditions to contemporary theories. Through rigorous coursework, analysis, and structured debate, students gain a deep understanding of key philosophical concepts and their relevance to modern-day issues.
With small class sizes, the program ensures personalized instruction and academic support, allowing students to thrive in a collaborative learning environment. This minor complements any major by strengthening skills in reasoning, argumentation, and problem-solving, abilities that are highly valued across a wide range of professions. Additionally, students have opportunities to participate in research projects and academic conferences, further enhancing their educational and professional development.
Why pursue a Minor in Philosophy at Fort Hays State University?
Choosing a Minor in Philosophy offers students a distinctive academic experience marked by small class sizes and personalized instruction. This intimate learning environment ensures that each student receives the individual attention and support necessary to succeed in their philosophical studies. Dedicated faculty members create a supportive and intellectually engaging atmosphere, encouraging students to explore complex ideas and strengthen their critical thinking skills.
Designed with flexibility in mind, the minor complements a wide range of majors. Its interdisciplinary nature enables students to enrich their primary field of study with the analytical, ethical, and reasoning skills developed through philosophical inquiry. Whether planning a career in law, business, education, or another profession, students gain a valuable foundation that promotes well-rounded, thoughtful, and effective professional development.
Who is this program for?
This minor is designed for students who wish to strengthen their critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and analytical abilities. It is particularly beneficial for those preparing for careers that demand strong problem-solving and sound decision-making skills. The program is especially well-suited for:
- Students majoring in humanities or social sciences
- Pre-law students
- Business and management students
- Individuals interested in ethics and public policy
- Aspiring educators
- Those seeking a deeper understanding of philosophical concepts
Real-World Applications
The minor prepares students for a wide range of real-world applications by cultivating essential skills such as critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and analytical writing. These competencies are highly valued in professions such as law, business, education, and public service. Students learn to approach complex issues methodically, construct logical arguments, and make well-informed decisions, skills that are critical for success in any career.
In addition, the program emphasizes experiential learning, offering students practical experiences that strengthen their professional readiness. Through involvement in research projects and academic conferences, students gain firsthand insight into how philosophical principles apply to real-world situations. These opportunities enhance their academic experience and equip them to address contemporary challenges with clarity and confidence in their chosen fields.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University incorporates the latest advancements and emerging trends in philosophy into the curriculum, ensuring that students are well-versed in contemporary debates and methodologies. Faculty members remain actively engaged with current research and developments in the field, bringing fresh insights and innovative perspectives into the classroom. This dynamic approach to teaching keeps students connected to the most relevant and cutting-edge philosophical discussions.
In addition to modern topics, students are trained in traditional research methods and encouraged to explore the intersections of philosophy with other disciplines, including science, medicine, and politics. This interdisciplinary emphasis broadens their intellectual scope and enhances their ability to approach complex issues from multiple perspectives. By engaging with both classic and contemporary ideas, students graduate well-prepared to contribute meaningfully to their professions and adapt to the evolving demands of academic and professional environments.
Hands-on Activities
The Minor in Philosophy emphasizes hands-on learning through a variety of experiential opportunities. Students have the chance to participate in national and regional philosophy conferences, where they can present original research and engage with scholars from across the country. These events offer valuable networking opportunities and expose students to a broad range of philosophical perspectives and contemporary debates.
Beyond conference participation, students can also collaborate with faculty on research projects, gaining practical experience that enhances their academic learning. These activities allow students to apply philosophical theories and concepts to real-world scenarios, strengthening their analytical and problem-solving abilities. Through these experiential learning opportunities, students develop a deeper understanding of philosophy’s relevance and practical applications, better preparing them for future academic and professional pursuits.
What You’ll Learn:
- Foundational philosophical concepts
- Critical thinking skills
- Ethical reasoning
- Analytical writing
- Argumentative skills
- Philosophical research methods
How You’ll Learn:
- Interactive lectures and discussions
- Research projects and presentations
- Critical analysis of philosophical texts
- Participation in philosophy conferences
- Engagement with contemporary philosophical debates
- Access to experienced faculty mentorship
The Minor in Philosophy requires 20 credit hours and offers a flexible curriculum designed to strengthen critical thinking and ethical reasoning. Core courses in philosophy, ethics, and bioethics provide a strong foundation, while electives in areas such as metaphysics, epistemology, and political philosophy allow students to explore topics of interest.
This minor complements a wide range of majors and encourages interdisciplinary learning, helping students connect philosophical ideas to other fields. Through exposure to diverse perspectives and analytical methods, students gain valuable skills applicable to many professional paths.
PHIL 100: Critical Thinking
This course presents students with a comprehensive coverage of instructional design models and processes associated with medical imaging education. The primary aim of the course is to develop awareness about what is involved in reasoning well. The student will learn (1) to sort claims according to the kinds of evidence that could be used to establish their truth, and the kinds of expertise that would be relevant to evaluating this evidence, and (2) to evaluate arguments of various kinds (identify when an argument is being made, what its conclusion is, what the logical relation between premises and conclusion is purported to be, whether the premises are plausible, and whether the conclusion is established).
PHIL 120: Introduction to Philosophy
This course will prepare imaging science educators to compare various learning assessment techniques to include learning domains such as foundational knowledge, application, integration, and human dimension. An introduction to perennial philosophical questions concerning topics such as knowledge, doubt, God, freedom, necessity, good and evil, immortality, time, the cosmos, and the meaning of life, and to some of the most noteworthy attempts to answer them.
PHIL 331: Ethical Issues in Professions and Business
An examination of ethical issues in the professional lives of people in science, education, medicine, law, and business arising from the challenge of maintaining personal integrity in the face of apparent conflicts of duty.
Discover the full Minor in Philosophy course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Graduates are well-equipped for a wide range of career paths. The critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and analytical skills gained through the minor are highly valued across diverse fields, opening numerous professional opportunities.
Lawyer
A background in philosophy is valuable for aspiring lawyers, enhancing critical thinking and analytical skills essential to legal practice. Lawyers are better equipped to build persuasive arguments, interpret complex issues, and navigate ethical dilemmas—key skills for success in the profession.
Ethicist
Ethicists assess and address moral dilemmas in fields such as healthcare, business, and government. Grounded in ethical theory and moral reasoning, graduates assist organizations in creating policies that promote ethical conduct and social responsibility.
Policy Analyst
Policy analysts apply their philosophical training to evaluate public policies and advise government agencies, think tanks, and nonprofits. They conduct research, analyze data, and ensure ethical considerations and sound reasoning guide decision-making.
Educator
Educators with a philosophy background are prepared to teach critical thinking and ethics at the high school and college levels. They design curricula, lead discussions, and support students’ intellectual growth, shaping future thinkers and leaders.
Writer/Editor
Writers and editors with philosophical training excel at exploring complex ideas. They work in journalism, publishing, and communications, creating content that engages and informs. Their skill in analyzing and articulating intricate concepts makes them valuable contributors to any editorial team.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,055.95* (on-campus) or $3,975.75* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
Students interested in the Minor in Philosophy may also consider related programs at Fort Hays State University. These programs offer complementary skills and knowledge that can further enrich their academic and professional growth.
- B.A./B.S. in Political Science
- Certificate in Philosophy and Law
- Master of Liberal Studies (Philosophy)
The minor includes courses in ethics, logic, metaphysics, epistemology, political philosophy, and contemporary issues, providing a broad and diverse philosophical education.
Yes, this minor can be completed both online and on-campus, offering flexibility to accommodate different schedules and learning preferences.
A Minor in Philosophy enhances critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and analytical skills, making graduates more competitive in law, business, medical fields, and public service.
Students can gain valuable hands-on experience by participating in faculty-led research projects and national and regional philosophy conferences.
Students receive personalized guidance and support from full-time faculty members, small class sizes, philosophy scholarships, and access to various academic resources and extracurricular opportunities.
Information about the Department of History and Philosophy
The Department of History and Philosophy at FHSU offers a comprehensive educational experience that develops students' critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills.
The History Programs provide in-depth coursework exploring a wide range of historical periods and cultures, preparing students for careers in education, research, public history, and related fields. The Philosophy Programs challenge students to examine fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, and values, fostering strong problem-solving skills and a thoughtful, reflective approach to life.
Together, these programs deliver a well-rounded education that combines historical understanding with philosophical inquiry. Graduates are equipped with the intellectual tools to succeed in diverse career paths and to contribute thoughtfully and effectively to society.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.
- Phi Alpha Theta & History Club: This student organization provides a dynamic environment for engaging in intellectual discussions, film analyses, and activities centered on specific historical themes. The club fosters a collaborative and enriching learning experience for students passionate about history.
- Philosophy Club: This club offers students the opportunity to engage in thoughtful philosophical discussions that span multiple disciplines and address real-world issues, fostering meaningful dialogue between peers and faculty.
- Victor E. History Podcast: Hosted by faculty member Hollie Marquess, this podcast showcases research conducted by students, faculty, and alumni within the History Programs, highlighting diverse historical topics and scholarship.
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