The philosophy department offers a major and a minor course of study. In both courses, faculty seek to help students to develop an understanding of philosophy as a liberal discipline, able to provide the insights and perspectives required for critical reflection on and evaluation of other disciplines. Students are exposed to the great thinkers and key problems that make up the western intellectual tradition. They are encouraged to understand and follow the advice of Socrates, whose philosophy was motivated by the Delphic imperative to ?know thyself?; and, to serve their community and the human family through the challenge of St. Thomas Aquinas who called students and teachers to ?Contemplate, and give to others the fruits of your contemplation.?