2.6

Mark Shelton

Philosophy - Central Michigan University

2.6
Quality
4.3
Difficulty
26%
Would Retake
192
Reviews
2.6
Quality
4.3
Difficulty
2.8
Helpful
2.5
Clarity

26%

Would Retake

192

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official
192 total ratings

5

31

4

31

3

36

2

51

1

43

What Students Say

0 STUDENT I'M SAYING DO NOT TAKE THIS CLASS

PHL100WI - 1.0 rating

He makes this class much more difficult than necessary

PHL118 - 1.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

65%

Textbook Required

25%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B-

95% confidence
Based on 60 grades
Most common grades:
B (10)
B+ (8)
A- (7)
Grade Distribution
A(7)B(15)C(17)D(4)F(3)A-/B+(15)
Based on 67 reported grades
B: 10
B+: 8
A-: 7
C+: 7
Common Tags
Get ready to read (30)
Tough grader (26)
Graded by few things (16)
Lecture heavy (12)
Skip class? You won't pass. (11)
Tough Grader (8)
Participation matters (7)
Lots of homework (7)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.47 avg change
Jan
Mar
Apr
May
Aug
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

PHL405

5.0

(1)

PHL410

5.0

(1)

PHL118HWI

5.0

(1)

PHL418

4.0

(1)

PHL100

3.2

(50)
+19 more courses
Difficulty by Course

PHL307

5.0

PHL422

5.0

PHL114

5.0

PHL405

5.0

PHL410

5.0

Reviews (190)
2.0
4.0
PHL100
Sep 16, 2002

He is very dramatic. His exams are essays questions

3.0
3.0
PHL100
Oct 3, 2002

No Comments

4.0
4.0
PHL100
Oct 30, 2002

Nice Smart Guy, too tough for a 100 level UP course.

2.0
3.0
PHL230
Nov 12, 2002

nice guy, but impossible to follow

1.0
5.0
PHL100
Dec 4, 2002

Unless it is his idea...it is wrong. Don't take him!!!

1.0
5.0
PHL100
Dec 4, 2002

I am a PHL major, and I struggled in this class. He teaches false info, Fire Him

2.0
4.0
PHL100
Dec 19, 2002

nicknamed him spartacus, teaches too hard for 100 level, must die

1.0
5.0
PHL100
Feb 4, 2003

Extremely hard for a 100 level UP course

5.0
2.0
PHL118
Mar 2, 2003

Shelton is an awesome proffessor. He keeps the students attention, and keeps them involved, but the involvement is by choice of the student, so there is no risk of embarrasment. His class is one of the most fun classes I have had. yet you still learn a lo

2.0
5.0
PHL118
Mar 25, 2003

He is super hard and if you don't agree with his opinion then ur wrong- Don't take him he is horrible

5.0
3.0
PHL101
Mar 27, 2003

Great Class

2.0
4.0
PHL100
Apr 1, 2003

I took this course because i thought it would be interesting. However, i worked so hard and only got a B-. This class is way to difficult for a 100 level class. Sheldon is a spazzz

2.0
4.0
PHL118
Apr 2, 2003

He's a nice guy, but it is very difficult for what should be a fairly easy class. Exams are not fun!

2.0
5.0
PHL
Apr 6, 2003

No Comments

2.0
4.0
PHL118
Apr 6, 2003

this isn't a 118, it's more like 318. he's hard to understand and his essay questions are worse...and he grades you down if he doesn't agree with your stance

1.0
5.0
PHL118
Apr 7, 2003

This guy is crazy. He is unwilling to help anyone, and impossible to follow. If you want to ruin your GPA take Shelton, if not, pick another professor!

2.0
4.0
PHL118
Apr 8, 2003

No Comments

3.0
4.0
PHL118
Apr 10, 2003

He's a nice guy and very energetic. But his essays are very hard and I agree with everyone else too difficult for a 118.

1.0
5.0
PHL118
Apr 14, 2003

Shelton expects too much for a 100 level class. The essays are impossible because no matter which side you take, you're wrong. Get someone else for this class.

1.0
5.0
PHL118
Apr 26, 2003

Okay if you want a professor that cares less if you pass or fails. He thinks he's doing you a favor when he really isn't. He has no problem weith failing you if you don't agree with him on a topic

1.0
5.0
PHL307
Apr 27, 2003

takes the fun out of existentialism. will not give direct answers to questions. refuses to cash out. highly highly recommend avoiding this professor.

2.0
5.0
PHL118
Apr 30, 2003

Makes class much more complicated than it should be. Book is hard to follow. Too complex

1.0
3.0
PHL
Aug 1, 2003

Must have a Ph.D in rambling. Makes no sense, just talks and talks...This guy is the professor that makes students hate philosophy. Unless you have a Ph.D already stay away from this guy, he'll just confuse you.

5.0
4.0
PHL118
Aug 20, 2003

Loved the class, Learned a ton, energetic and funny prof. May be kind of difficult to understand, but if you do the reading and listen in class you actually learn a lot. Prof. even answered questions I had over email. Prob not for everyone though

4.0
3.0
PHL118
Sep 28, 2003

Has a degree from Harvard and it shows. You'll need a profound vocabulary to even stay afloat in here. Not for the less than well-read. Often confuses himself rambling.

4.0
4.0
PHL100
Oct 10, 2003

The best thing about Shelton is that he expects you to actually do college level work. Philosophy is complex thinking and should take some effort to understand. You shouldn't fault the guy for college-level teaching because you didn't work hard enough.

5.0
3.0
PHL100
Oct 26, 2003

a true genuis , a brilliant great man and wonderful prof

2.0
4.0
PHL100
Oct 28, 2003

Professor Shelton is polite and friendly, but he is not a good fit for PHL 100. This class is way over everyone's head and he grades very hard. He needs to teach graduate level classes.

2.0
4.0
PHL118
Nov 4, 2003

He makes you think.

4.0
4.0
PHL118
Nov 5, 2003

He is a little hard to understand at times, he makes you think and want to do well in his class, very energetic and will always remember your name, likes to pace back and forth, but overally not a bad teacher

2.0
5.0
PHL100
Nov 14, 2003

Talks in way too many circles! I didn't get anything out of this class and all his exams are tough! He's a nice guy, but the class pretty much stunk. Needs to learn how to match his clothes!!!!!!!

4.0
5.0
PHL100
Nov 17, 2003

He helps the readings all come together in lecture and is very helpful if you are willing to take the time.

5.0
4.0
PHL100
Nov 18, 2003

He is probably one of the nicest teachers I have ever had. The class is tough, that's given..it's Philosophy. So, if you don't want a hard class, don't sign up for it - it has nothing to do with his teaching. He is SO NICE.

4.0
4.0
PHL100
Dec 6, 2003

Very nice guy but needs to learn more about how to teach. He doesn't explicate the philosophical arguments well enough. If you're not a philosophy major or minor, avoid. If you are, take him with a higher level course.

4.0
3.0
PHL100
Dec 18, 2003

I honestly enjoyed this class and even if you don't show up for his entertaining lectures...you can still understand the information because whether it seems like it or not, he teaches straight from the book.

3.0
4.0
PHL100
Mar 2, 2004

The man is absolutely brilliant! He is very hard on grading and the overall class is complicated, but he tries to make things as clear as he can and is very nice. Not at all an easy A, in fact I don't know if he's ever given an A, but he is eager to help!

5.0
1.0
PHL100
Grade: Drop/Withdrawal
Mar 10, 2004

great overall prof, and he isnt that hard I got a B and wasnt there half the time

5.0
5.0
PHL118
Mar 22, 2004

Great teacher... Very enthusiastic about his subject and he memorizes your name, so he recognizes your face. He has real teacher quality even though he is a little hard to understand sometimes. Great Job Shelton!!

3.0
3.0
PHL118
Mar 30, 2004

He is really enthusiastic, but terribly hard to understand. It's important to go to class, which I realized to late in the semester. He is helpful, but you have to work for the A and he really makes you think.

3.0
3.0
PHL118
Apr 16, 2004

To put it simple, Mark went to Harvard and it shows. For a 100 level class, this class was hard and went from suck!ng to bl0wing really fast. He guards giving out A's like a chastity belt. If you're content with a B, have at it.

2.0
4.0
PHL118
May 2, 2004

This class sucks--you can't understand him, nothing comes out clear, and you'll never get an A. He let's you out like eight minutes late everyday.

4.0
4.0
PHL418
May 5, 2004

Dr. Shelton is a great guy and knows a lot about 19th cent. philosophy. This class is very difficult, but you will KNOW the material when he is done with you. If you are a PHL major take this class and work hard. It is well worth the effort.

3.0
3.0
PHL118
Nov 4, 2004

CRAZY CRAZY MAN!!! he is a good guy, but he is crazy. i has a lot of energy really early in the morning and walks back and forth alot and relaly fast. don't really understand his grading. he knows what he is talking about and he's really into it. he memorizes your name, which is cool.overall. its ok

3.0
5.0
PHL118
Nov 8, 2004

Very difficult class. Mark is a nice guy, but expects ALOT out of his students. The class was 100 level but felt more like graduate student work. He poses questions for discussion, but to discuss what he asks is almost impossible

5.0
4.0
PHL100
Nov 16, 2004

I realy enjoy his lectures a lot. The book material is difficult, but he breaks it down well. He does expect a lot of his students, so this isn't an easy A. But it's worth the effort.

4.0
4.0
PHL100
Nov 30, 2004

This class is really hard. He's a really nice guy, but he expects way too much out of you.

3.0
4.0
PHL118
Dec 14, 2004

I thought this class was going to be interesting but I was wrong. I struggled to stay awake. Your grade is bases on only tests & 2 papers. It is too hard of a UP.

2.0
4.0
PHL118
Dec 23, 2004

He talks to us as if we are students at Yale or something. He uses VERY large words, so make sure you know what it is he is saying. He will ask a question and literally stare at you for ten minutes until some brave soul takes a shot at it. This class is very hard and almost impossible to get an A

1.0
4.0
PHL118
Dec 26, 2004

The lectures are very hard to follow. The essays are hard because he picks the topics which are not interesting. He isn't humorous at all. Class will put you to sleep

4.0
5.0
PHL100
Feb 20, 2005

Expects A LOT...but he explains things fairly well I think...he's very energetic for the class being in the morning...:S

5.0
3.0
PHL100
Mar 14, 2005

Very high energy and quirky. Willing to work with students, and I suggest taking advantage of it. The tests and papers are do-able if you go to class. Be prepared to work for your A.

3.0
5.0
PHL100
Apr 13, 2005

mark shelton is very motivated about this topic, but it wasnt what i expected. the readings suck. everything was extremely complicated... i ended up having to get notes from sparknotes for every test/paper. boo!

5.0
3.0
PHL100
May 16, 2005

Crazy man, way too excited so early in the morning. But he presented his information well. He knew what he was teaching and liked it. It was a fun class to go to, even if he was was too strung out.

3.0
5.0
PHL100
May 19, 2005

hard! not even a fun challenge!

4.0
4.0
PHL118
Aug 30, 2005

He graduated from Harvard and it shows. He questions everything, so don't even try to talk him in a circle when arguing about something you got wrong. Isn't very clear on what he expects, but ironically his expectations are extremely high.

5.0
3.0
PHL118
Oct 3, 2005

Okay he is a very nice man willing to help and essays fyi are not hard. i got an A on everyone so dont say the class is impossible you didnt try hard enough. his words are not that big either words every college person should know. EX Rhobust come on people just cause you did bad doesnt mean the teacher sucks.

2.0
5.0
PHL422
Oct 4, 2005

He is very energetic, but the class is hard and half the time i dont get what he is saying. He uses big words and the topics we talk about are boring, boring enough for it to be nap time and that is no joke

2.0
4.0
MORALPROBLEMS
Oct 11, 2005

He is craaaazy!! not interestin at all, dont understand what he is talkin about at all. uses way to big of words. Dont take this class

3.0
3.0
PHL118
Oct 16, 2005

Sometimes, all of a sudden, I'll have no idea what he's talking about. He can get pretty complicated/confusing during his lectures, but he makes very good arguments. Grades very fairly.

3.0
5.0
PHL100
Nov 11, 2005

So it turns out, I thought this was an introductory class. Apparently I was mistaken. Althought the class was sometimes interesting and he was very enthusiastic about teaching, it was a very difficult class. Not anyting close to an intro class. Extremely challenging and confusing. LOTS of reading

5.0
4.0
PHL118
Nov 17, 2005

Very good guy, hes nice and willing to help. The material for the class, however is another story...

3.0
4.0
PHL140
May 12, 2006

Many times I had no idea what he was talking about. He uses words that I have never even heard of so I would get lost, confused, and frustrated. There is a lot of reading in the class. Five tests, two essay and three multiple choice but you get to choose which one you want to do when. Not a bad guy, helpful with questions, but talks over your head.

2.0
5.0
PHL118
Jun 1, 2006

Worst damn professor I've ever had. Ever. Class material wasn't too hard, but he managed to make it more complicated. Don't write for you; write for him. If he disagrees with what you have to say/write, you'll do poorly. Good luck -- you'll need it.

4.0
3.0
PHL118
Sep 12, 2006

Pretty okay

3.0
4.0
PHL118
Dec 31, 2006

Prof. is really nice but the material was VERY hard. The exams are almost impossible. Make sure you go to class if you want any chance at getting a passing grade.

4.0
4.0
PHL118
Mar 22, 2007

He is really nice as a person but he only grades on exams and the material is really hard! He's a bit of a tough grader. His personality is a little "out there" and he bounces around the room. I like him though, he's a cool guy.

2.0
4.0
PHL118
Apr 23, 2007

He's ok...until the second day of class when you dont understand a thing hes talking about. Exam are hard and nothing you read will really help. I read and went to lecture and it was still bad. If your taking this to take up a UP and a requirement in Business and want a good GPA... take the long way.

5.0
4.0
PHL100
Nov 10, 2007

The guy is from Harvard....he remembered everyones first and last names after the first class and never forgot a single one. Everyone complains about this class, but just read a little each day and throw in some sparknotes along with the books he gives and you'll get an A..really interesting class though..most enthusastic prof I've ever had.

4.0
4.0
PHL100
Nov 12, 2007

He's gives interesting lectures and is VERY enthusiastic about what he teaches. The grading scale is a little funky and the class might be a little harder than it should be. He's crazy but it makes it fun.

4.0
4.0
PHL100
Dec 7, 2007

He's a really nice guy and is very enthusiastic about the subject matter. He's extremely intelligent and knows his stuff - the only problem is that he doesn't treat the class like an intro course. If you have no interest in philosophy and are just looking to pick up a UP, I'd advise you not to take this class.

4.0
4.0
PHL100
Jul 12, 2008

I took this as just an elective class. And not going to lie sometimes the subjects went over my head, but he could tell when you were lost and worked to help you out. His test were hard but like he said instead of a bunch of bull**** ?'s he'd rather have more hard ?'s to get you thinking and then grade more curved. It's challenging but fair!

1.0
5.0
PHL118
Oct 15, 2008

the most annoying teacher and person i've ever met in my life

1.0
5.0
PHL114
Oct 20, 2008

This guy is a nut job. He's all over the place during lectures. The other commenters are correct in that if you don't agree with him you are WRONG and will be graded as such (which was of course something of an issue in a class called MORAL PROBLEMS when we talked about vegetarianism, abortion, gay rights, etc). His grading system is weird too.

3.0
3.0
PHL118
Oct 30, 2008

There aren't any homework assignments, we had 5 exams that made up our grade. The book is written by him so, you only know what he wants for you to know. He basically wants for you to tell him what he told you in class, don't stray from that EVER (if you want to pass).

4.0
5.0
PHL118
Dec 1, 2008

For a UP this class is hard! Mark is a great teacher but he intentionally makes his exams super hard. He also does this weird curving. Once your done with this class you will know your stuff. If your like phillosphy take him if you just want the UP or do the business requirement take another teacher. Overall good teacher hard class

5.0
5.0
PHL118
Dec 10, 2008

My Favorite teacher of ALL TIME! i have about a 3.5 gpa and i took this as an elective class and it was probaley the hardest class i have taken to this point.However This class is awesome and Shelton is so enthusiatic about the subject. Shelton got his Doctorate from Harvard. He is a genious and wants to make you one too!you wont regret taking it!

1.0
5.0
PHL118
Dec 14, 2008

hardest class ive ever had. im 1 of those students who slides by everythin with a B doin no work. this class made me do work, tons of it, n i still BARELY passed(n its curved!).DONOT take him! has essay tests and test questions r as complex as the material. reading bad reviews i thought i could handle him but it was the biggest mistake of my life!

1.0
5.0
PHL118
Dec 17, 2008

Nice guy, but thats all I can say about him. As a 100 level entry philosophy class, this was by far the hardest course I've ever had. I'm an A student and couldn't grasp any of his concepts to his liking. If you want to take a GPA hit, take him.

2.0
5.0
PHL118
May 1, 2009

DO NOT TAKE HIM. Makes the class impossible out of his own sick pleasure. If you don't agree with him, he makes a fool of you in front of the class and gives you bad grades on essays. You MIGHT enjoy this if you are a raging left-winger, but just be safe and go in with no opinions.

1.0
5.0
PHL318
May 1, 2009

TAKE THIS CLASS WITH SOMEONE ELSE! Shelton makes this class impossibly hard for no reason. Don't make the same mistake I did and just take it with someone else. It will be easier and you will learn more. Shelton is a prick and doesn't care about his students whatsoever.

2.0
5.0
PHL118
Dec 1, 2009

Good guy but very tough class. Somehow I managed to pull off a C. Very boring and doesnt make sense. Grade is based solely on exams which are very difficult. Every question seemed to be a paragraph long & there's 50! 1st exam I got a B just by guessing & I think that's the only reason I passed! I heard many other teachers were easier so take them

2.0
5.0
PHL118
Dec 2, 2009

Mark Shelton is a hard professor to learn from. The vocabulary he use and the speed of his talking is impossible. You cant understand him even if you did want to pay attention to learn. He always held us 3 or 4 minutes late, and his exam grading is crappy. Its impossible to do well in this course, that person isn't joking when they said RUN!!!!!!

5.0
5.0
PHL405
Dec 6, 2009

Great Professor if you are into philosophy. He knows his stuff and if you want want to actually learn something or engage in an intelligent conversation than he is the professor to take. Don't let his Harvard credentials scare you, he is very approachable and not at all full of himself.

2.0
4.0
PHL118
Dec 10, 2009

He is a nice guy but this class was pretty much impossible. Every class is just him talking and talking. He's very smart but he doesn't teach at the level that his students are at. The tests are very hard and tricky. I wouldn't recommend him as a phl teacher.

3.0
4.0
PHL118
Dec 12, 2009

Do NOT take this professor. He is - granted - a nice enough guy and very approachable. But this class, as he presents it, is ridiculously difficult. He does speak horribly fast and the material he attempts to throw at you in a semester is more than overwhelming. I thought I could handle a teacher like this with such bad reviews, but I was wrong.

4.0
5.0
PHL118
Dec 21, 2009

Shelton does in fact teach a hard course, but all the comments about him being a prick and not caring about his students are completely irrational. I loved the class and enjoyed going to it. I'd definitely suggest taking this course.

3.0
5.0
PHL118
Mar 31, 2010

Go to class and read the book! Did NOT enjoy this class at all. Exams are hard and he is kinda weird.

2.0
5.0
PHL118
Apr 22, 2010

I can't say enough how much you should avoid this professor. He speaks ridiculously fast and the way he presents the class is horrible. Unless you're unbelievably intelligent and gifted, be prepared to work as hard as you possibly can to earn a B- at best. HAVE TO read the book.

4.0
5.0
PHL118
Apr 30, 2010

He is a nice guy and very helpful. However his exams are really hard. Even if you study for hours you will be luck to get a B. And the final is worth either 40% or 50% of your final grade depending on what test you are doing. If you are stuck with him, read your book before class, go to every class, and participate. And try taking it with a friend.

2.0
5.0
PHL118
May 3, 2010

Avoid taking Shelton's class at all cost. He likes to talk and talk and talk, but is unclear on the topic and makes it extremely hard to follow. Reading the book and attending class is a must. The exam are HARD and even if you study and follow all the guide lines, you are lucky to get a C+

4.0
5.0
PHL118
Jul 28, 2010

Really smart teacher. It's the kind of class that you remember and apply often. Difficult but it wouldn't work any other way.

4.0
4.0
PHL100
Nov 1, 2010

Very interesting class if you like engaging in or even just listening to intelligent conversation. Participation is key and is good practice making sure that you are actually grasping the concepts he tries to convey. This is a class that really makes you think and are likely to remember.

3.0
4.0
PHL100
Nov 15, 2010

He is a very nice professor, but he talks the whole class period. You also must read the assigned texts, and take major notes. I found the exams hard, and the papers hard to write. I didn't have any interest in any of the subjects. I would avoid taking this teacher for this class.

3.0
4.0
PHL100
Nov 15, 2010

He is a very nice professor, but he talks the whole class period. You also must read the assigned texts, and take major notes. I found the exams hard, and the papers hard to write. I didn't have any interest in any of the subjects. I would avoid taking this teacher for this class.

3.0
5.0
PHL118
Dec 7, 2010

He is a really hard professor. His essays are difficult to read, and the reading from the book involves a lot of thinking.

3.0
5.0
PHL118
Dec 11, 2010

He is a very intelligent professor, but he is very hard. Your whole grade is dependent on your tests, which are very hard. I would recommend this teacher to a philosophy major, but not if your just taking it to get it out of the way.

1.0
5.0
PHL100
Dec 14, 2010

This professor is really hard! He has his own opinions and never seems to like what others have to say. His exams are really hard and his grading system is weird! I would not take this class for an UP!

4.0
5.0
PHL118
May 11, 2011

He's by far the most difficult professor I've had yet at CMU. He learned the names of everyone on the first day. He's a genius, and went to Harvard. It's a tough class but if you go to class, take good notes, and write your essay based on what he says you should get at least a B. The first topic you learn is the hardest, but it gets better(:

5.0
5.0
PHL410
Jun 12, 2011

Shelton is very hard to get an A from. There were 3 papers totaling 35 pages. However, Shelton will help out in any way he can. Overall the class was great but hard.

2.0
5.0
PHL118
Oct 27, 2011

He talks so fast you can barely write down the notes. The tests are extremely hard, and he never reviews anything in the review sessions. He says that he creates the tests so that the highest score will be a 50%. Hardest class I have taken while in college so far.

3.0
4.0
PHL118
Nov 8, 2011

I am in PHL 118 right now this class is the most difficult class I have ever taken. I have good grades in all of my other classes. This class is going to kill my GPA. I do NOT recommend taking this class as a UP class. I dont even know whats going on in the class and I read every assigned reading and go to every class. Stay away from this class!

2.0
4.0
PHL118
Nov 8, 2011

DO NOT TAKE!!!! So long sweet 3.8 GPA. See you never again because of this guy. This guy is so smart he does not interact with the rest of the world.

2.0
4.0
PHL118
Dec 14, 2011

Mr. Shelton is a really nice guy, just it was hard to understand what he was saying sometimes. he's really passionate about the subject. as long as you read the book, it's not that hard. I got a C+ in the class and i have a friend that got a B. You have to learn how to think like him. oh and the class was only based on m.c. exam & essay grades

2.0
4.0
PHL318
Apr 16, 2012

He is a very smart man but he rambles on about what he is talking about. It is hard to pay attention because he writes nearly nothing on the board. Hes a nice guy and all but not the greatest teacher.

1.0
5.0
PHL100
May 9, 2012

He gives 4 exams for the entire class, the final is 35% of your grade and the exams are subjective to his opinion. As in, he makes the class average a C to C- because his opinion is that "philosophy shoud be hard". The "participation points" he gives out doesn't help your grade much. If you want to lower your GPA, then take class with this prof.

5.0
3.0
PHL118
Dec 18, 2012

The reviews of this guy are very indicative of the attitude and intelligence of the average CMU student. He is a very smart professor, and he knows what he is teaching. If you enjoy being in the company of an intellectual, and having intelligent conversation, take Shelton. This class wasn't that hard. CMU needs to stop letting these kids in...

5.0
3.0
PHL118
Apr 19, 2013

Dr. Shelton's class was challenging in the sense that it required you to challenge yourself.Class discussions forced you to think about real life issues and seriously question yourself about what is moral/fair/right and WHY.Intellectual conversation with open and honest thought was encouraged.I continue to say,"my favorite class at CMU" 4 yrs later

5.0
1.0
PHL118
May 6, 2013

This course is abstract thinking, it broadens a person's perspective on many issues(if you allow yourself). Shelton is very knowledgable on the topic. Sometimes he speaks bit fast his lectures, it may be difficult to understand given that he is very articulate; a recording device would be very helpful in his class. I recommend Shelton.

5.0
4.0
PHL118
Dec 3, 2013

Professor Shelton is brilliant. I've remarked several times at how I can follow his line of thought much like an outline. If you open your mind to the readings and class lectures, you will be impressed by how much you learn. Read, participate, and listen; you won't regret it. Also, listening to him talk will improve your vocabulary immensely!

4.0
4.0
PHL118
Dec 18, 2013

I left this class confused every day. It was probably because I have no interest in philosophy but he talked in circles and I wasn't sure of the points he was trying to get across. 6 exams total and 3 of them are essay exams. I got the same grade when I studied as when I didn't study. Customizes mandatory textbook so its expensive.

1.0
4.0
PHL118
Jan 13, 2014

I would not recommend him as a professor. I went to him several times trying to maybe get better study habits or anything really and he is not very helpful. There is a lot of reading for his class and he tends to talk in circles and it is hard to follow along with what he is saying. I felt like I didn't learn anything.

2.0
5.0
PHL118
Grade: A+
May 1, 2014

Very hard professor. Only homework given is to read, but it is not helpful. Final grade is based off exams only(no curves). No quizzes or extra credit. Went to his office hours to get study tips and didn't get anything. Would definitely try to avoid him.

3.0
4.0
PHL118
Grade: C-
May 20, 2014

Mark Shelton is a GREAT guy. I think that he means well, but is almost too intelligent for most of his students. His vocabulary is so impressive that I often found myself having no clue what he was saying. When I studied extremely hard, I got a C on the exam. When I didn't study at all, I still got a C. He's enthusiastic about the topic but tough.

2.0
5.0
PHL118
Grade: C
May 25, 2014

Don't bother taking this class unless you wish to significantly lower your GPA.

1.0
5.0
PHL118
Sep 24, 2014

He makes this class much more difficult than necessary. The information covered wasn't difficult, however, the way he words the exams makes them tough. I was VERY unimpressed with the course and his teaching techniques. The class was overall useless and a complete waste of my time and money. Also, expect to pay $180 for a customized book.

4.0
4.0
PHL118
Grade: B+
Nov 18, 2014

Dr. Shelton makes you work for your grade, but if you do the readings before class and participate, you will get a good grade. He's very passionate about the topic and really makes you think about tough issues. He's always available to help anyone in need. It's nice to have a teacher who cares.

2.0
4.0
MHL188
Grade: C
Nov 18, 2014

He is a very intelligent man. He talks for the whole hour and it gets boring. No assignments other than exams, doing the reading probably helps I got C's on all my exams without doing any of the reading because he goes over all of it in class but its kind of hard to understand because he uses a lot of analogies and makes it harder than it has to b.

5.0
4.0
PHL118
Grade: A-
Dec 14, 2014

The class consisted mainly of lectures during which students are expected to participate. Be sure to read the material in order to participate and get points. The grading scale is strange. Although it appears at first that the class will be easy, the tests are difficult and he is a tough graders on essays. The class challenges you but is worth it.

3.0
4.0
118
Grade: B-
Feb 5, 2015

Test are extremely tough. He speaks at a level that is not understood by the majority of the population, let alone college students. But he loves philosophy and has a passion for his subject.

3.0
4.0
PHL118
Apr 28, 2015

There are only a few units with a test at the end of each one. There is final worth 20%. The tests are mostly essays, so read the readings so you can understand his lectures in class. ACTUALLY READ!

2.0
5.0
PHL100
May 5, 2015

Professor Shelton is a cool guy. He's ridiculously intelligent, which becomes a problem for people taking his introductory classes. Material is presented in such a difficult way. Only a few tests make up your final grade. He has his own (confusing) grading scale. Read or don't pass. Looking for a blow off class? AVOID.

3.0
4.0
PHL118
May 10, 2015

If you get stuck with him take the class Credit-No-Credit. Trust me nobody wants to ruin their GPA over a UP. If you attend every class and study you will do decent. It's a very difficult class, so I would avoid him if possible.

3.0
5.0
PHL118
Grade: C+
May 15, 2015

Very intelligent man, which made it hard to keep up in his class. The textbook is very wordy and hard to comprehend, along with his lectures. If you do not read the book or show up to class you will not pass. Kind of a strange guy, but funny. However, this is the class that tanked my GPA; avoid taking if possible.

2.0
5.0
PHL100
May 15, 2015

Highly recommend that you don't take this class. The whole class is based on 4 exams. The material is very confusing and prof Shelton doesn't make it easier to understand at all. I asked for help and he just told me to read the books which I had already done. Hardest intro class i've taken. Stay away if you want to keep a good gpa.

1.0
5.0
PHL118
Grade: C
Nov 13, 2015

don't bother trying worst professor hard grader rude and will make you sound dumb if you answer something wrong.

2.0
4.0
PHL118
Grade: C+
Nov 16, 2015

Shelton is way too smart to teach this class. His language is hard to follow. His grading scale is very complicated. You MUST read the assigned pages BEFORE class. Readings are long, boring, and usually make no sense. Lectures are confusing and hard to follow. Tests are all knowledge based on if you understand the philosophers point of view.

4.0
4.0
PHL118
Grade: A
Dec 2, 2015

I personally loved this class. I'm not even a philosophy person, but you talk about topics that are very interesting and relevant. He is a very quirky, funny teacher. He is incredibly smart which means he expects you to keep up, but if you ask for help outside of class he's awesome. I did well in his class because I tried! Lectures can be entertain

4.0
4.0
PHL100WI
Dec 11, 2015

The classes are long and boring if you aren't interested but you defineey need to go and take notes on the lectures or you won't pass the class. He's was very helpful and understanding. He was one of the only professors that was willing to help so that you pass the class. We use 5-6 books but they're cheap.

5.0
4.0
PHL118
Grade: A
Dec 14, 2015

Dr. Shelton is one of the most clear & consistent lecturers I have ever taken a class with. He takes the material seriously, carefully dissecting as much as possible in a short 50 minute period. You will be challenged, no doubt. You must read, you must think, and you must *try* in order to successfully complete this class. You won't regret it.

1.0
5.0
PHL100WI
Grade: C+
Dec 15, 2015

AS A 4.0 STUDENT I'M SAYING DO NOT TAKE THIS CLASS. I spent more on time on this than A&P and stats COMBINED, only to get a C. He is very unclear of what he expects and the whole class is based on 4 exams. His grading scale is very subjective and on a 1/8 scale so students don't understand and can't ask questions. Also its history of PHL not issues

2.0
5.0
PHL100
Grade: C
Dec 21, 2015

Possibly the worst professor I have ever had. I was actually more stressed out from his PHL100 class than I was for my math or programming classes. He grades ridiculously hard.

4.0
3.0
PHL100
Grade: B-
Dec 22, 2015

Makes you really think about the subjects. Cares about the students. Really entertaining to watch him teach.

2.0
4.0
PHL100
Mar 20, 2016

Hardest intro class I've ever taken. Very smart and respectful man but does not organize his lectures well. You have do pay attention to the reading and what he's saying or else you will not pass. Very tough grader too

5.0
3.0
PHL118
Grade: A-
Dec 1, 2016
Would take again

He is a very quirky and smart guy, and if you can follow, his lectures will be interesting and the logic of it all will make perfect sense. He cares about his students and challenges your beliefs. This is my first semester as a freshman and I have an A- with minimal effort. Do the readings beforehand and pay attention and you will do fine.

5.0
3.0
PHL100
Grade: B+
Jan 10, 2017
Would take again

Loved this class! I would Recommend it.

Participation matters
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
Amazing lectures
1.0
4.0
PHL118
Grade: B
Jan 11, 2017
Wouldn't take again

He is very intelligent and nice, but the material was presented in such a difficult way. Lectures can be confusing and boring. Since he goes over the readings in class, you cant skip and you have to do all the readings beforehand to be able to participate. I would highly recommend NOT taking this class if it is for a UP!

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
2.0
4.0
PHL118
Grade: C+
Mar 31, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Despite interesting material and engaging lectures, I can't really recommend this class or professor. This might work for someone who is an English major or a Philosophy Major, but I am majoring in Meteorology. Science is objective while philosophy is subjective. Therefore, if you are a Science major, steer clear at all costs.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
LECTURE HEAVY
2.0
4.0
PHL230WI
Grade: A-
May 2, 2017
Wouldn't take again

Holy Cow, this class sure does make you work for a good grade. Not in the good way though. If you have the option to take a different class for a WI I would definitely suggest it. He is not very clear in his grading so you do not always know your grade. On all of my papers he wrote letter grades. No percentages just A-/B+. Literally what he wrote.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
4.0
3.0
PHL118
Grade: B
Jun 8, 2017
Would take again

A very dedicated and caring professor. He makes great analogies and explains things in very understandable terms. Prepare to get deep on subjects. Read weekly, it's not overbearing material. If you work hard you should be able to get a B- or higher. Definitely grew from the class, interesting all around.

Gives good feedback
Participation matters
Amazing lectures
5.0
5.0
MORALPROBLEMS
Oct 19, 2017
Would take again

He's very enthusiastic about what he teaches. He's wicked smart and moral problems is already a rough class so it might be hard for you to follow. It wasn't necessarily easy but it wasn't hard either. If you're struggling, ask questions because it will only get harder if you don't. Do the reading. Just do the reading he assigns.

Get ready to read
Amazing lectures
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
5.0
5.0
PHL118
Jan 8, 2018
Would take again

He's awesome, it's one thing to go to class and it's another to go and learn something. If you're true goal is to learn something and you're not solely focused on getting an A every time. You will love it, please take this class. We need more people who know stuff in the world!

Skip class? You won't pass.
Amazing lectures
TEST HEAVY
5.0
4.0
PHL118HWI
Grade: A
Jan 9, 2018
Would take again

This guy is a great person and really cares about his students. If you don't understand something, go and see him at his office hours. I will admit he is a tough grader and says it is hard to get an A in his class. Put in the work, start caring about what you're learning and it's absolutely possible!

Respected
Inspirational
Would take again
5.0
4.0
PHL118WI
Grade: C
May 14, 2018
Would take again

Mr. Shelton is a fantastic professor. He's funny, smart, and clearly enthusiastic about the subject. The way he grades is different, but overall great. He makes it so that the exams are hard, but grades in a way that even if you get only half right you pass the exam. Read, show up, and you'll pass.

Get ready to read
Participation matters
TEST HEAVY
3.0
4.0
PHL118
Grade: C+
Oct 15, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Really really liked this class and the prof but he is such a hard grader. I participated and paid close attention every day and took good notes and still ended with a C+. Ruined my gpa

Tough Grader
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
3.0
PHL100
Grade: A
Nov 2, 2018
Would take again

Dr. Shelton was a very passionate professor. He would really get into his lectures, and you can tell he is passionate about the subject. If you take PHL100, I would 100% suggest him. The work isn't plentiful, one 500-600 word assignment every other week with only every other one graded, your choice. Easy A if you follow the requirements listed well

Skip class? You won't pass.
Inspirational
Amazing lectures
3.0
4.0
PHL100
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 6, 2018
Would take again

Professor Shelton is a great guy. It is very evident from his lectures that he is very passionate on the subject. He cares for his students and is a really nice guy. There are a lot of books you SHOULD read for the papers he has you write about them. The papers are not difficult, only 600 word assignments mostly for completion. Good luck!

Respected
Get ready to read
SO MANY PAPERS
4.0
3.0
PHL100
Grade: A
Dec 6, 2018
Would take again

He is kind and very easy to talk to. Lectures are like mini-seminars, although he talks more than the students do. Often he is more interested in what you are thinking about the material rather than if you have the "correct" answer. There are 8 small question/response papers every 2-3 weeks, 600 word min. Very unique class and professor.

Gives good feedback
Get ready to read
SO MANY PAPERS
3.0
4.0
PHL145
Grade: C+
Dec 6, 2018
Would take again

The material was pretty hard to understand most of time, professor shelton is also more than happy to go over anything that you found challenging. The one downside that i found was the online homework was challenging and confusing most of the time, once you submit it you don't recieve correct answers to the ones you got wrong.

Get ready to read
Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
3.0
5.0
PHL100
Dec 7, 2018
Wouldn't take again

I had such a difficult time in this class. He overcomplicates his sentences during his lectures in such a way that I couldn't focus enough to even take notes that made sense, and I'm currently writing my final paper for this class and teaching myself the material. He's a very kind and approachable man, but I struggled to follow his teaching style.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
4.0
5.0
PHL100
Grade: B
Dec 7, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Loved the Prof. but way to smart for an intro class to understand. Get ready to read and not understand lectures! Any papers assigned and are difficult to understand his questions. I have never missed a class but struggle and literally don't get what we talk about. He is funny but again a really tough intro class!

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
2.0
4.0
PHL118
Grade: B+
Dec 15, 2018
Wouldn't take again

My opinions on him are very mixed. You will learn a lot from his classes, but they are pretty difficult, easily the most difficult class I've taken. He's a very smart and caring person, but I do not like how his class is organized.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
3.0
5.0
PHL100
Dec 28, 2018
Wouldn't take again

There is so much reading for this class. He goes over the reading extensively in class, but if you don't do the reading, you are most likely not going to do well in the class.

Get ready to read
LECTURE HEAVY
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
4.0
5.0
PHL307
Grade: B+
Jan 14, 2019
Wouldn't take again

If you are not gifted and brilliant, skip this class.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
ACCESSIBLE OUTSIDE CLASS
2.0
4.0
PHL145QR
Grade: F
Dec 9, 2019
Would take again

Shelton is a brilliant guy, and very passionate about the stuff he teaches. Sadly, he's passionate about a lot of other things too - and that pollutes his lectures. My PHL 145QR class became a statistics class, where some classes were spent talking about stats, others about logic, and some about natural science. Shouldn't be teaching a 100-level.

Gives good feedback
Skip class? You won't pass.
Lecture heavy
3.0
4.0
PHL100WI
Grade: B-
Dec 18, 2019
Would take again

It's a WI class, what do you expect? Lots of papers!! Professor Shelton is a great guy but all of the assignments are based off of the many many readings. If you do not read, you won't be able to participate in the discussions (required) or be able to understand the material being discussed (required obviously).

Lots of homework
Get ready to read
So many papers
1.0
5.0
PHL100WI
Grade: B+
Jan 11, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Grades extremely harsh. Wrote one of my best papers for this class and recieved a very poor grade for it. This class and professor caused me the most stress that semester.

Tough grader
1.0
5.0
PHL118
Grade: F
Nov 17, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Mark is the worst professor you will ever encounter, this is your sign to drop his class now. He gives one assignment per unit, that makes it impossible to do well in the class. And on top of that, he takes forever to grade. You will not get feedback on the last assignment for weeks after. The class is very lecture heavy. Do not take!

Get ready to read
Graded by few things
Tough grader
2.0
4.0
PHL118
Grade: D
Nov 17, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Great Personality but hard on grading and expressing what he wants. Gave out 5-6 assignments and they were 4 points each so that makes it difficult to pass.

Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
PHL100HWI
Grade: B+
Nov 23, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Worst class and worst professor of all time! There's not a huge difference between this class and the non-Honors/non-WI classes, so take this warning if you're looking to take any PHL100 with Dr. Shelton - don't do it. Unfairly harsh grading, only a few assignments, readings up to 50 pages in the two days between classes, awful at explaining, etc..

Lots of homework
Get ready to read
Graded by few things
1.0
4.0
PHL100HWI
Grade: B
Dec 7, 2020
Wouldn't take again

The grading scale was super unclear, and his feedback was mostly just opinions that he wished he would've seen in your work, not the actual work you handed in. Thank God that he posted the Webex lectures on Blackboard, because I couldn't follow it during class and had to go back and re-watch lectures to understand material.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Tough grader
2.0
4.0
PHL118
Dec 17, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Im not sure why I ended up in this class-but if you have the option to take it, dont. Professor Shelton is a nice person and passionate about the subject, but he is so knowledgeable that it makes it hard for an average person like myself to understand what he is talking about. I managed to get a decent grade, but I had to put in a lot of effort.

Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
PHL101
Grade: C-
Feb 7, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Grading scale was horrible and made it almost impossible to pass this class. I am a A student and have been for years and i barely passed this class.

Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
PHL145
Grade: Not sure yet
Mar 8, 2021
Wouldn't take again

This class was the hardest intro class I have ever taken. Prof Shelton is a very nice man, but he is a terrible teacher of an intro-level class. He is so passionate about the subject matter, but he goes off on unrelated and confusing tangents during lectures. His grading scale is confusing, and the work is incredibly hard for a 100 level class.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
PHL100
Grade: Not sure yet
Mar 31, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Nice guy, but: Absolutely brutal grading. This is an INTRO CLASS. He goes far too in depth for people to really grasp what he is talking about. Maybe 2-3 people understand and participate. Grades like everyone is a philosophy major. If you have the option to not take this class, don't. If you have to, don't take it with him unless you love PHL.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Graded by few things
Tough grader
1.0
5.0
PHL140
Apr 16, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Be prepared to waste your time on assignments that don't actually help you learn philosophy. Outrageous and unmanageable amount of homework assigned for each chapter. Skip this class and take another philosophy professor for intro if possible

Lots of homework
2.0
5.0
PHL140
Grade: C+
Apr 29, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Professor Shelton was incredibly kind and very easy to contact however this course was the most unreasonably difficult 100 level course I've ever seen. Cengage provides the homework and reading content so Professor Shelton does not have much control over the content but makes no effort to manipulate due dates to make the work load more reasonable.

Lots of homework
Accessible outside class
Caring
1.0
5.0
PHL118
Grade: F
May 2, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Awful Awful Awful!!!!! nice guy and very funny but when it comes to teaching, this is the hardest class I have ever taken. this is supposed to be an intro class but he treats it like a 400 level. my college graduate cousin even helped me on an assignment, said he thought it was hard, and got a 50 percent on it. DROP IF YOU CAN. terrible class

Lecture heavy
Tough grader
1.0
4.0
PHL100
Grade: B
May 3, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Prof. Shelton is a really nice guy but he treats the course like it's a 500 lvl course. He's super passionate about what he teaches but I think he forgets to realize most students don't know anything about philosophy since this is an intro level course. His lectures are very confusing and you end up over thinking everything. Wouldn't recommend.

Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
3.0
5.0
PHL200WI
Grade: A-
May 4, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Shelton is a wonderful guy, but a poor professor, in the sense that he treats beginner philosophy classes like they're 500 classes. He grades tough at times but acts like we're supposed to know all of this information when he never actually teaches, just talks at us. He also isn't the best at getting back to questions, emails, etc.

Graded by few things
Tough grader
1.0
4.0
PHL145QR
Grade: B
Oct 4, 2021
Wouldn't take again

I took this course online, and he wasn't even the one teaching us through the lecture videos. It was a different professor in the philosophy department. He doesn't give the greatest feedback. I also don't think that he really cares about whether the students pass or not.

Lots of homework
Get ready to read
Graded by few things
5.0
5.0
PHL100
Grade: A-
May 13, 2022
Would take again

Dr. Shelton is one of the brightest professors I have had the pleasure of working with. He sets the bar high for all of his students. His lectures are some of the highlights of the semester as he is funny and passionate about the topics he teaches. He can be a little harsh in emails, but he does care about his students and gives the tools to pass.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Respected
1.0
4.0
PHL318
Grade: Not sure yet
Aug 7, 2022

Mark Shelton is not a good professor. I had a 8 week summer class with him. He assigns up to 90 pages a week of reading and a ton of homework on top of that. The homework and reading consume lots of time and don't help when it comes to test time. The tests are lockdown browser with a webcam. I have a 3.8 gpa and I'm struggling to keep a C.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Lots of homework
1.0
4.0
PHL118WI
Grade: C-
Dec 2, 2024

Does not grade papers with the same standards while most papers have the exact same instructions

Tough grader
1.0
4.0
PHL118WI
Grade: B
Dec 2, 2024

His grading system is awful, very cray when he speaks and it never makes any sense, doesnt post the questions for assignments so if you miss you are screwed basically, but doesn't grade attendance

Tough grader
So many papers
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
MORALPROBLEMS
Grade: C
Dec 4, 2024

he is terrible. only talks the whole time and expects us to know everything he knows. don't have him as prof unless you want to be miserable.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
5.0
4.0
PHL100WI
Grade: A-
Dec 4, 2024
Would take again

Professor Shelton is a tough grader, but lets you pick and choose which assignments to be for credit and which to be for completion. Fantastic lectures, but has high expectations for a 100 level class. Overall a fantastic professor that makes you think.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Gives good feedback
3.0
4.0
PHL100WI
Grade: B+
Dec 5, 2024

Professor Shelton is very animated and gets very into the lectures, which makes them interesting at times. However, you have to read a TON outside of class and each assignment is strictly writing. He grades like he expects you to be a professional philosopher in an intro level class. Overall, good professor, just extremely hard grader.

Tough grader
So many papers
Lecture heavy
2.0
5.0
PHL100WI
Grade: B
Dec 6, 2024

Professor Shelton is a tough grader, with an extremely vague grading rubric making it difficult to understand what he's looking for. The workload is definitely a bit heavier than most 100 classes I've taken, as well. I did enjoy the lectures however, he is very energetic and passionate about what he does.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
So many papers
1.0
4.0
PHL118
Grade: C-
Dec 11, 2024

Do not take this professor!!! Will talk the entire hour (and will often go over time) grades very harshly, everyone in the class was confused. hostile classroom enviornment. did not teach. hardest class of my life.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
4.0
PHL118
Grade: A-
Dec 18, 2024

Slow grader, extremely critical, unconventional, and worst of all, boring. I wouldn't recommend this class unless you are really inspired by the subject. I tried my absolute best to enjoy it (even though I was just taking it for a grade), but it really was a miserable experience. If you want to keep that high GPA, people, avoid it at all costs.

Tough grader
Participation matters
1.0
5.0
PHL118
Grade: B
Dec 21, 2024

I took PHL 118L with professor Shelton and he was horrible. He did not teach the course the way that a leadership class is intended to be, but was also an overall bad professor. His lectures are informative, but often either contradictory or unrelated to the many assigned readings. He grades harshly with little feedback. Passionate guy, awful prof.

Tough grader
Participation matters
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
PHL118WI
Grade: D+
Jan 2, 2025

If you're taking this as a WI class, make sure to read the syllabus. Shelton is very passionate about philosophy, which makes it hard as a beginner to follow along. He is also a very tough grader, and won't give out any extra credit or make up work. would not take him again.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Graded by few things
2.0
5.0
PHL118WI
Grade: B+
Jan 15, 2025

If you're a beginner in philosophy, DON'T TAKE THIS CLASS. He is very passionate about his lectures, but they are lengthy and boring. There is a TON of reading to do, and long assignments. His grading method is different, and you'll have to ask him what your grade is. Nice guy but the class was difficult as it is, and he didn't make it easier.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Lots of homework
2.0
4.0
MORALPROBLEMS
Grade: Not sure yet
Mar 10, 2025

I had to miss class for a week bedbound because of a surgery and asked for materials. He told me to call a student in the class (I know none of them and I don't speak to any) so I could have a conversation about what he talked about in lecture. Guy just loves to hear himself talk and grades harshly. Doesn't understand that it is an intro class.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
PHL118
Grade: D-
Apr 22, 2025

This guy is a weirdo. He makes me and other students feel uncomfortable and not want to come to class. He gives us opinion-based essays that we have to write and then fails us. He will not listen to me when I tell him that I did a quiz he did not see it on his end and I remember doing the quiz and he wont care or listen. Very weird guy!

Get ready to read
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
PHL100WI
Grade: B-
May 18, 2025

Probably one of the worst classes I've taken thus far. He's a very slow grader, and your grade is weighted from in-person essays, which he grades very harshly on, and the quizzes, which are impossible to pass. He's also a boring lecturer. If you're looking to fulfill your WI credit or are interested in philosophy, I wouldn't take him.

2.0
4.0
PHL100WI
Grade: A+
Aug 18, 2025

He wasn't a bad professor, but uhhhh his grading is just his opinion on the subject at hand and not the work you put into the paper. Be ready to write about a paper a week on top of a lot of reading and you need to do the readings to complete the papers. Not enough time to do all that he expects of you. Also, class is way too Christianity centered.

Get ready to read
So many papers
Lecture heavy
2.0
5.0
PHL118WI
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 3, 2025

I attended class every day, did the reading beforehand, took notes, and participated, but still struggled in this class. He is a very intelligent person and is clear with his words, but this is FAR beyond a 100-level class. He is an incredibly tough grader, and I felt like I was desperately fighting for an A.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
2.0
4.0
PHL101
Grade: B
Dec 11, 2025

Refused to put anything in the grade book, so I have no idea what I'll end with until it's finalized. No assignments, he just makes you read stuff and then talk about it in class. Only graded on exams and the final was 50% of my grade. Very smart but teaches the class like a 500 level. 10/10 would cry again.

Get ready to read
Participation matters
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
PHL118WI
Grade: B-
Dec 18, 2025

All he does is give lectures without writing anything down, so no one can ever understand what he s teaching. He also only gives four in person handwritten essay exams throughout the entire semester, absolutely no other points. DO NOT TAKE THIS CLASS. It ruined my gpa. Such a harsh grader and bases it off his opinion. Please don't take this.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

65%

Textbook Required

25%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B-

95% confidence
Based on 60 grades
Most common grades:
B (10)
B+ (8)
A- (7)
Grade Distribution
A(7)B(15)C(17)D(4)F(3)A-/B+(15)
Based on 67 reported grades
B: 10
B+: 8
A-: 7
C+: 7
Common Tags
Get ready to read (30)
Tough grader (26)
Graded by few things (16)
Lecture heavy (12)
Skip class? You won't pass. (11)
Tough Grader (8)
Participation matters (7)
Lots of homework (7)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.47 avg change
Jan
Mar
Apr
May
Aug
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

PHL405

5.0

(1)

PHL410

5.0

(1)

PHL118HWI

5.0

(1)

PHL418

4.0

(1)

PHL100

3.2

(50)
+19 more courses
Difficulty by Course

PHL307

5.0

PHL422

5.0

PHL114

5.0

PHL405

5.0

PHL410

5.0

Similar Professors