Philosophy Department

Department/Program Description

Philosophy is the study of the fundamental questions that people face throughout their lifetimes. We ask: "Who am I?" "How should I live?" "What is real?" "Is there a God?" Students of philosophy investigate these questions and learn how people throughout the ages have answered, or failed to, answer them.

The study of philosophy, itself, has proven quite beneficial to students. Philosophy majors typically score higher on such exams as the Law School Admission Test, (LSAT) the Graduate Record Exam, (GRE) that is essential for graduate school and the Graduate Management Admission Test, (GMAT) for graduate business schools. This is because the study of philosophy develops the ability to think critically, manage information, communicate effectively, and understand and create arguments. These are the types of skills that enhance student success in any environment.

Transfer and Employment Opportunities

Hibbing Community College's philosophy courses are designed to conform to the Minnesota Transfer Curriculum (MnTC) standards. What this means is that these courses will transfer either as "general electives" or as qualifying courses of a philosophy major or minor.

In addition, our departmental faculty is prepared to work closely with students and academic advisors to smooth the transfer process for philosophy courses between Hibbing Community College and whichever four year institution the student chooses.

The "myth" of the unemployable philosophy major has been exposed by recent articles from the New York Times, (April 6^th, 2008) and The Guardian (November 20^th, 2007). Philosophy majors typically do quite well in professions such as law, business, journalism, management, seminary, medical professions, as well as publishing and writing.

Course Descriptions

Faculty