OHIO University Undergraduate Catalog 2024-25
Philosophy—Pre-Law Major (B.A.) |
Major code BA5244
College of Arts and Sciences
Department of Philosophy
Lindley Hall S124
Athens, OH 45701
Phone: 740.593.4588
philosophy.department@ohio.edu
www.ohio.edu/cas/philosophy
Al Lent, contact person
lent@ohio.edu
Program Overview
The pre-law major in philosophy is for students interested in using philosophy to understand the logic and ethical assumptions behind the law. While providing a basic education in philosophy, the pre-law track allows a focus on the philosophy of law, social and political philosophy, and moral theory. Students with this sort of background are especially well suited for law school and the practice of law.
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
With strong skills in critical analysis and writing, graduates of the Philosophy – Pre-Law program are well-equipped to pursue law school. Philosophy – Pre-Law graduates have the same variety of potential employment and graduate school opportunities that general philosophy graduates have, as well. A bachelor of arts in philosophy – pre-law prepares students for a wide range of careers, from politics, to business, to service, and much more. Virtually any job that requires critical thinking skills, an ability to communicate well, and creativity in working out problems will be suitable for a philosophy major. Examples of potential employers include, but are not limited to, the following: institutions of higher education; adult education programs; research institutes; environmental agencies; consulting firms; legal clinics; non-profit organizations; financial institutions; religious organizations and retreat centers; correctional institutions; etc.
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Requirements
University-wide Graduation Requirements
Ohio University requires the completion of a minimum of 120 semester hours for the conferral of a bachelor’s degree. This program can be completed within that 120-hour requirement. For more information on the minimum hours requirement and other university-wide requirements, please review the Graduation Requirements – University-wide page.
Liberal Arts and Sciences Distribution Requirement
View the College and Liberal Arts and Sciences Distribution Requirements .
Philosophy Pre-Law Major Requirements
Complete 33 hours of PHIL coursework, as distributed in the seven components listed below.
Component 1: Fundamentals
Complete both of the following courses:
- PHIL 1010 - Fundamentals of Philosophy Credit Hours: 3
- PHIL 1300 - Introduction to Ethics Credit Hours: 3
Component 2: History of Philosophy
Complete one of the following courses:
- PHIL 2100 - History of Western Philosophy: Ancient Credit Hours: 3
- PHIL 2120 - History of Western Philosophy: Modern Credit Hours: 3
Component 4: Political Theory
Complete the following course:
- PHIL 2400 - Social and Political Philosophy Credit Hours: 3
Component 5: Upper Division Courses
Complete one of the following courses:
- PHIL 4400 - Contemporary Social Philosophy Credit Hours: 3
- PHIL 4420 - Philosophy of Law Credit Hours: 3
Component 6: Electives
Complete an additional 6 hours of PHIL courses at the 4000 level, not including PHIL 4901 and PHIL 4970.
Component 7: Senior Seminar
Complete the following course:
- PHIL 4901 - Senior Seminar Credit Hours: 3