Welcome to the Department of Philosophy and Religion!

Established in 1968, the Department of Philosophy and Religion has served South Dakota State University by preparing students for careers and citizenship in an ever-changing world. Students who study philosophy or religion at SDSU can:

--Earn a minor in either philosophy or religion,
--Pursue a major through the Liberal Studies program in
philosophy, religion, or philosophy, religion, and ethics,
--Work with nationally and internationally known faculty
who are experts in their fields with solid publishing records,
--Go on to graduate school in a range of fields,
--Develop one of many career paths.

Why Philosophy?

Philosophy attempts to find a meaningful perspective from which to interpret the self, the world, and the place of the self in the world. It seeks to articulate the fundamental assumptions and categories presupposed by experience as such. The study of philosophy develops one's critical and analytical faculties, increases one's skills in writing, problem solving and persuasion, and stimulates an appreciation for the enduring questions of human existence.

While students from any major can greatly profit from the reading philosophy, its study is particularly useful to those pursuing graduate study in philosophy and theology, and those entering professional programs in Law, Medicine, and the Ministry. Students studying the natural or social sciences can profit from the Philosophy of Science course, while those enrolled in the professional colleges will profit from the Department's offerings in ethics. We recommend the study of logic to anyone interested in thinking more clearly.

A minor in philosophy is available in either the B.A. or B.S. program. This minor requires 16 credit hours of philosophy, including Philosophy 100. Of these 16 hours, 6 must be in upper division courses.

The study of philosophy may also be pursued through a B.S. in Liberal Studies in the College of General Studies.

Why Religion?

The academic study of religion involves the use of critical and interpretive skills in examining the vast range of ideas, practices, and writings that are reflected in religion. Present course work is designed to enrich the student's perspectives and introduce some of the important features of philosophy and religion. While students from any major might greatly profit from examining religion, its study is particularly useful to those pursuing graduate work in religion or history, or those entering seminary in preparation for the Ministry.

A minor in religion is available in either the B.A. or B.S. program. This minor requires 15 credit hours of religion, including Religion 213.

The study of religion may also be pursued through a B.S. in Liberal Studies in the College of General Studies.