Nov 23, 2024
OHIO University Undergraduate Catalog 2014-15
OHIO University Undergraduate Catalog 2014-15 [Archived Catalog]

Philosophy—Pretheology Major (B.A.)


Major code BA5242

College of Arts and Sciences
Philosophy Department
Ellis Hall 202
Athens, OH 45701
Phone: 740.593.4588
Fax: 740.593.4597
philosophy.department@ohio.edu
http://www.philosophy.ohiou.edu

Al Lent, contact person

Program Overview

The pretheology track within the philosophy major does not differ greatly in terms of distribution requirements (though there are some differences), but differs principally in the direction, guidance, and preparation it offers to students who are interested in the philosophical foundations of religion and religious belief. Students whose interests center on religion (whether the ministry or religion studies) often find philosophy an attractive field of study because of its analytical and deeply reflective character as an academic discipline. While seminaries tend not to favor one major over another, a mix of philosophy and Classics and World Religions, which is the what the pretheology track prescribes, will serve to create a secure foundation for further study in this and related areas.

Admissions Information

Freshman/First-Year Admission

No requirements beyond University admission requirements.

Change of Program Policy

No selective or limited admission requirements.

External Transfer Admission

No requirements beyond University admission requirements.

Opportunities Upon Graduation

Excellent preparation for graduate work in theology.

Requirements

Universitywide Graduation Requirements


To complete this program, students must meet all Universitywide graduation requirements .

Liberal Arts and Sciences Distribution Requirement


View the A&S - College Level Requirements (A&S CLR) .

Philosophy Pretheology Requirements


Complete the following two courses and the five components listed below, for a total of 33 hours of PHIL coursework:

Component 1: History of Philosophy


Complete the following courses:

Component 2: Logic


Complete the following course:

Component 3: Upper Division Courses


Complete 6 hours of PHIL courses at the 4000 level, not including PHIL 4901 and PHIL 4970.

Component 4: Electives


Complete at least 3 hours of coursework in Classics and World Religions.

Component 5: Senior Seminar


Complete the following course:

Theological Seminary or Graduate Study Recommendations


If you plan to enter a theological seminary or to do graduate study in religion, it is recommended that you take a broad program of appropriate undergraduate courses in the following:

  • classics and world religions;
  • English composition and literature, and world literature;
  • history;
  • sociology and anthropology.

Arrange your program to meet the requirements of the B.A. degree and the University General Education requirements.

It is advisable to major in philosophy, English, classics, or one of the social sciences. Check the entrance requirements of the theological seminaries, other religious educational institutions, or graduate schools of your choice and plan your curriculum accordingly. A pretheology major is also available from the Departments of English and History.