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Philosophy & Religion
(College of Arts & Sciences)
Visit the Humanities Division Website for the philosophy department homepage.
Program Description
The study of philosophy and religion is a foundational element in a well-rounded liberal education. By developing the ability to write and think clearly, a philosophy major or a minor in philosophy or religion constitutes an outstanding preparation for a wide variety of careers.
The JU philosophy program introduces students to the tradition of philosophical reasoning about the nature of the world, the limits of human knowledge and the proper course of human conduct. The curriculum is designed to introduce students to the full range of philosophical thinking, from ontology and metaphysics to ethics and epistemology. Rather than stress a particular content or approach to philosophy, the goal of the program is to graduate majors who have developed the habit of thinking and writing about complex philosophical issues in a critical and rigorous manner.
The philosophy program emphasizes the reading of primary texts in the philosophical tradition. In sharp contrast to the deductive presentation favored by many textbooks that conceals the origin of the knowledge they present, the use of primary texts permits the student to follow the path of discovery traveled by the founders of the philosophical tradition. This approach encourages a confidence in reason to resolve difficult problems. This unique training is an ideal course of study for students who desire a solid liberal arts education.
Curriculum Overview
The major is offered both as a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts degree. Courses are available in the major areas of the history of Western thought from ancient and medieval philosophy to classical modern philosophy, contemporary continental philosophy and contemporary analytic philosophy.
Also offered are courses in the philosophy of art, ethical theory, applied ethics, logic and political philosophy, as well as periodic interdisciplinary courses with the sciences, social sciences and the humanities. The philosophy department also encourages majors to arrange independent study projects in a specific area of interest.
The department also offers a minor in religion. The courses in religion focus on the critical examination of traditions, doctrines, rituals, literature, and cultures of a wide variety of belief systems. Both critical and survey methods are used in Biblical studies and in the investigation of ancient and modern belief systems of Western and nonwestern peoples. The religious beliefs, traditions, and practices of all peoples are treated with academic respect.
Academic Preparation
The philosophy major has no requirements for admission beyond those required for admission to the University.
Facilities & Resources
Philosophy and religion faculty offices are in the newly renovated Council Building. Courses are offered in various buildings on campus, and the new Council computer lab is used in teaching logic courses.
Internship & Career Opportunities
The major is an excellent preparation for graduate or professional schools and provides an outstanding foundation for careers in journalism, politics, civil service, advertising, law, medicine, public policy, education, business, marketing, and public relations. Philosophy also is an ideal double major for those seeking to combine a solid training in the liberal arts with a more practically oriented professional career path. Students who wish to engage in undergraduate research are encouraged to enroll in independent studies with faculty members. Those intending to pursue graduate degrees are urged to complete an independent research project culminating in a departmental honors thesis.
Sponsored Student Activities
Philosophy majors and religion minors may be involved in the JU Philosophy Club or Phi Sigma Tau, the national philosophy honors society. The Philosophy Club sponsors "philosophy slams" at Fuel Coffeehouse, movies and discussions of philosophical interest, lectures by guest speakers and an annual trip to the Florida Philosophical Association.
Outcomes
Jacksonville University philosophy graduates have gone on to successful careers in law, business, government, and academia. Some of their employers include Merrill Lynch, Child Guidance Center, CSX Transportation, and Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Florida. Graduate schools attended include the University of Florida and Tulane University.
Faculty – Philosophy & Religion
ERICH D. FREIBERGER (Associate Professor)
A.B., Georgetown University; Ph.D., Boston College
SCOTT KIMBROUGH (Associate Professor)
B.A., Southwestern University; Ph.D., University of Pennsylvania
Contacts
For additional or specific information, you can write, call or e-mail us:
DR. ERICH FREIBERGER or DR. SCOTT KIMBROUGH
Division of Humanities
Telephone: 904-256-7115 or 904-256-7118
E-mail: efreibe@ju.edu or skimbro@ju.edu
Office of Admissions
904-256-7000 or 800-225-2027 (toll-free)
E-mail: admissions@ju.edu
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