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With the accelerated pace of modern life, many people find the need to turn inward in order to find meaning in
their lives. Through the study of philosophy and religion, many students are able to put their own lives and work into
perspective. For some students this means pursuing degrees in philosophy or religious studies. For others, this means
double-majoring in one of these fields in conjunction with a major in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences,
or professional schools. Either option can be both fulfilling and practical for interested students.
We hope that this information will answer some of the questions you might have about studying what one might call
the "contemplative" disciplines.
Q: Just what are these so-called "contemplative" disciplines?
A: At Pitt, these disciplines include:
All of these programs are located in the
School of Arts and Sciences (A&S).
Q: Whenever I tell someone I'm interested in these areas, they say, "What are you going to do with that? What AM
I going to do with that?"
A: Whatever you want! First and foremost, a discipline such as philosophy or religious studies will teach you
how to think critically and how to write well. These two skills will always be practical in virtually any field. For
instance, philosophy majors are looked at very favorably when applying to medical and law schools.
Q: I want to be an engineer, a mathematician, a business leader, etc. Why would I be interested in philosophy?
A: In practical terms, every field has problems for which a philosophical background can be helpful. People
in any field routinely face ethical dilemmas. Philosophy also emphasizes the history of thought, enabling people to
see where the foundations of their own discipline lie. On the other hand, though, many people pursue philosophy
because they believe critical thinking and argument are a lot of fun.
Q: OK, you've sold me on philosophy. But why should I want to study philosophy at Pitt?
A: Pitt's Philosophy Department has been described as the "crown jewel" of this University--it is
consistently ranked in the top three
departments in the country, and the History and Philosophy
of Science Department places in the top five. Philosophy offers
a 24-credit major that optimizes the possibility for a double
major, and a 36 credit intensive major for those whose primary
interest is philosophy.
Additionally, every philosophy major loves a good argument, and at Pitt it is very easy to find one. There is an
undergraduate philosophy club devoted to philosophy, and two debate clubs as well. Stimulating conversation can also
be found in the numerous bookstores and coffee shops in Oakland (where Pitt is located) and the surrounding
neighborhoods, as well as in the classroom.
Q: What about religious studies?
A: The Religious Studies Department explores world religions individually and comparatively. Students
interested in theology may continue their education on the graduate level through a special agreement with the
Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. A certificate program is also available in Jewish studies.
Various religions are represented on campus in organizations such as Hillel, Campus Crusade for Christ, the Baha'I
Association, Hindu Student Council, and even the Atheist/Freethought Student Association.
Q: Where do I sign up?
A: You can start by clicking onto the philosophy
department's web site and reading more information.
Then, you may request additional information as needed. Be sure to investigate
the Honors College as well for some wonderful opportunities.
The University Honors College
The University Honors College (UHC) offers
a number of courses in the philosophical disciplines. UHC courses are intended to give students a more in-depth
perspective on the subject than non-honors courses. Also, UHC courses are usually smaller and more like seminars than
lectures. The UHC offers a Bachelor of Philosophy degree that requires students to do an independent research project
and defend a thesis in front of a faculty review panel.
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