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Philosophy B.A.
Honors Tutorial College Program

Philosophy Major

The Honors Tutorial College program in philosophy offers exceptional students the opportunity to study philosophy through intensive one-on-one tutorials with faculty in the Department of Philosophy. The program emphasizes close mentorship, intellectual independence, and deep engagement with foundational and contemporary philosophical questions.

Curriculum

Students must complete at least 120 credit hours, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.5, and fulfill all university and Honors Tutorial College requirements.

Each semester, students enroll in Philosophy Practicum, a one-credit course focused on professional development, research, writing, and engagement with the department. Students are also encouraged to pursue coursework outside philosophy to complement their studies.

View Full Curriculum in the Academic Catalog

Honors Tutorial and Thesis

Students complete seven philosophy tutorials, culminating in a senior honors thesis that reflects original research and sustained philosophical inquiry. The thesis topic emerges from the student’s area of specialization and is developed in close collaboration with a faculty advisor.

The completed thesis must demonstrate clarity of argument, depth of analysis, and engagement with relevant philosophical literature. Final approval is required from the thesis advisor, the Director of Studies, and the Dean of the Honors Tutorial College.

Career Opportunities

A philosophy degree prepares students for a wide range of careers and graduate or professional programs. Honors Tutorial College graduates in philosophy frequently pursue advanced study in philosophy, law, theology, and other humanities or social science fields.

The analytical reasoning, ethical judgment, and communication skills developed through the program are also valuable in business, public service, education, policy, and non-technical roles in science and technology.

  • Tuition & Fees

    OHIO is committed to your lifelong success through our Guarantee+, which offers fixed tuition and fees, a graduation plan and lifelong benefits to our students. We're continuously striving to make college more affordable and accessible, while maintaining the high quality and value of an OHIO education.

  • Financial Aid & Scholarships

    All first-year Honors Tutorial College students admitted for fall semester earn the OHIO Premier Scholarship, valued at full in-state tuition and renewable for four years. Out-of-state HTC students may also earn the OHIO Trustee Award, valued at up to $7,000 annually.
     

    Our Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships also provides services to students and parents both in-person and remotely.

Admission Requirements

This is a selective admission program. Students must demonstrate:

  • Exceptional academic performance
  • Strong potential for independent study and research
  • Submission of additional essays and high school teacher recommendations
  • An interview with the director of studies

First-year, transfer, and external applicants are held to the same high standards. More details can be found on the HTC Application Page.

Director of Studies

Dr. Hanisch earned his Ph.D. from Bowling Green State University. His specialization is in ethics and the philosophy of action and agency.

 

hanisch@ohio.edu 

Learn more about Dr. Hanisch

headshot of Christoph Hanisch

Request Info

Please request application information regarding admission as a student using the form below.

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