The minor in ethics offers an interdisciplinary approach to the study of morality. Throughout history, notions of the good, the right, and the virtuous have been a central concern for individuals and societies. Although both philosophy and religion have traditionally been the disciplines that study ethics, ethical questions arise in the whole of human life, and every academic area is to some extent concerned with such questions. Thirteen departments or programs of the college presently offer courses approved in this minor. These courses pursue an understanding and critical examination of ethical notions, arguments, practices, decisions, and decision-making as they investigate various subject matters. The aim of the ethics minor is consonant with the mission of the college: to develop "the mind and character of each student." It does this by drawing on courses in different disciplines that cultivate students' understanding and judgement about often complex issues of right and wrong.

The minor consists of five courses: two foundation courses and three electives. Students must take one foundation course in Philosophy (PHIL 212 Ethics) and one in Religious Studies (either RELS 235 Religious Ethics or RELS 237 Christian Ethics). Students are encouraged to take one or both foundation courses before taking electives in the minor. If a student takes both RELS 235 Religious Ethics and RELS 237 Christian Ethics, one will count as a foundation course and the other as an elective. No more than three courses from a single department or program may count toward the minor.