College: Graduate School of Social Sciences

This specialization focuses on studying fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, mind, and language. Students gain skills in critical thinking, logic, ethical deliberation, and philosophical analysis, preparing for careers in academia, law, journalism, public policy, and related fields.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand key philosophical concepts and theories.
• Develop skills in logical reasoning and critical thinking.
• Learn ethical theories and moral logic.
• Explore metaphysics, epistemology, and the philosophy of mind.
• Analyze philosophical texts and arguments.
• Develop effective communication and argumentation skills.

General Outline for Specialization:

1. Introduction to Philosophy - An overview of philosophy, its history, and its major branches.
2. Logic and Critical Thinking - Principles of logical reasoning, arguments, and fallacies.
3. Ethics - Ethical theories, moral dilemmas, and applied ethics.
4. Metaphysics - The nature of reality, existence, and the fundamental structure of the world.
5. Epistemology - Theories of knowledge, belief, justification, and truth.
6. Philosophy of Mind - The nature of consciousness, mental states, and the mind-body problem.
7. History of Philosophy - Major philosophers and movements from ancient to contemporary times.
8. Philosophy of Science - The philosophical foundations of scientific inquiry and methodology.
9. Philosophy of Language - The nature of language, meaning, reference, and linguistic analysis.
10. Graduation Project - A comprehensive project applying philosophical skills, such as a research paper, philosophical analysis, or ethical case study.

Assessment Methods:

Philosophical analyses, logical reasoning exercises, ethical case studies, metaphysical and epistemological essays, philosophy of mind projects, history of philosophy reports, philosophy of science and language studies, graduation projects, group projects, and presentations.

Recommended Textbooks:

• "Introduction to Philosophy" by various authors.
• "Logic and Critical Thinking" by various authors.
• "Ethics" by various authors.
• "Metaphysics" by various authors.
• "Epistemology" by various authors.
• "Philosophy of Mind" by various authors.
• "History of Philosophy" by various authors.
• "Philosophy of Science" by various authors.
• "Philosophy of Language" by various authors.

Prerequisites:

An interest in philosophical research, critical thinking, and logical reasoning.

Duration of Specialization:

Typically 4 years to obtain a bachelor's degree.

Degree:

While there are no specific certifications in philosophy, graduates can pursue other academic qualifications such as a master's or doctoral degree in philosophy, or professional certifications in related fields like law (Doctor of Jurisprudence) or ethics (Certified Compliance and Ethics Professional).

Target Audience:

Aspiring philosophers, academics, lawyers, journalists, public policy analysts, ethicists, and professionals seeking careers in academia, law, journalism, public policy, ethical consultancy, and related fields. This specialization equips students with analytical and critical thinking skills necessary to excel in philosophical inquiry and related careers, supporting roles requiring deep thinking, ethical deliberation, and effective communication.