As an advanced philosophy major, joining the Philosophy Honors program will enable you to pursue large-scale independent research under the mentorship of a member of the Philosophy faculty. It’s an opportunity to take your philosophical work to the next level, while also providing a credential demonstrating initiative and excellent research skills.

As part of the program, during senior year, you will enroll in a graduate seminar (a 500- or 600-level course) and write an honors thesis. You’ll write the thesis under the direction of a Philosophy Department faculty member who will help shape the project, assist with research methodology, read and respond to your drafts and determine the timetable for research, writing and submission.

FAQs

about the Philosophy Honors program

Any declared philosophy major with a QPA of 3.5 or above may apply as a junior to join the program for senior year.
The program has two elements. First, you’ll take a 500- or 600-level philosophy graduate seminar (not its cross-listed undergraduate section, if it exists). We strongly suggest you take this seminar in the first semester of the program. You may take two graduate seminars if you wish.

During your second semester, you’ll enroll in PHIL 468 (3 credits), an honors thesis research course that grants credit for your thesis work. While in this course, you’ll meet regularly with your director to hone the topic, work out a writing schedule, receive feedback on drafts and revise your work. After the final submission of your thesis, your director will arrange a public defense, where you’ll present your project and take questions from your director, Philosophy Department faculty, philosophy graduate students, majors, minors and any other interested persons.
First meet with the Philosophy Department faculty member with whom you would like to work. Come to this meeting with a preliminary explanation of the thesis project you’d like to pursue. Also, secure the endorsement of a second Philosophy Department faculty member who is familiar with your work from previous classes.

Next, assemble your application, which consists of a letter describing your background in philosophy (including a list of courses), a short summary of the thesis you intend to pursue and an outline of your goals for program participation. Include the names of the faculty member who has agreed to direct your thesis research and your second endorser. Please also include your Duquesne transcript; an unofficial printout is fine. Finally, submit your application by email to Dr. Jim Swindal (swindalj@duq.edu).
We accept applications until April 15 for students graduating in May or August the following year, and until November 15 for those graduating in December the following year.
Your thesis director must be a full-time member of the Philosophy Department faculty. Adjunct professors or graduate instructors are not eligible to direct Philosophy Honors program theses.
Yes! Register for the zero-credit PHL 499 Philosophy Capstone course during the same semester you take your Honors program graduate-level seminar, choose an appropriate module and discuss it with your seminar professor.

Contact for more info

Dr. Jim Swindal