2.2

Steve Hiltz

Philosophy - SMU - Southern Methodist University

2.2
Quality
3.6
Difficulty
20%
Would Retake
135
Reviews
2.2
Quality
3.6
Difficulty
2.2
Helpful
2.2
Clarity

20%

Would Retake

135

Reviews

Rating Distribution
Official

5

15

4

16

3

18

2

28

1

58

What Students Say

shows minimal expertise in the subject and has an off-putting attitude, demeanor in class is so unfriendly and uses a sense of humor that is rude and inappropriate

BUSINESSETHICS - 1.0 rating

Quite possibly the worst and most boring teacher I have ever had

PHIL1318 - 1.0 rating
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

94%

Textbook Required

21%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 65 grades
Most common grades:
A (16)
A- (16)
B+ (11)
Grade Distribution
A(19)B(9)C(8)D(2)F(0)A-/B+(27)
Based on 73 reported grades
A: 16
A-: 16
B+: 11
Not sure yet: 7
Common Tags
Get ready to read (41)
Lecture heavy (37)
Tough grader (35)
Graded by few things (12)
Skip class? You won't pass. (9)
Test heavy (9)
Lots of homework (7)
Participation matters (5)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.75 avg change
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Nov
Dec
Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

ECO1311

5.0

(1)

EXISTENTIALISM

4.0

(1)

PHIL1305

3.5

(2)

PHIL1318

3.2

(21)

PHIL3383

3.0

(3)
+12 more courses
Difficulty by Course

PHIL1301

4.4

BUSINESSETHICS

4.3

CONTEMPMORAL

4.0

EXISTENTIALISM

4.0

PHIL1307

4.0

Reviews (135)
5.0
3.0
ECO1311
Oct 3, 2002

Interesting and Intelligent Professor. Tests Challenging but Graded Liberally

4.0
1.0
PHIL1305
Jun 1, 2003

good teacher, but not a lot of grades in the end, so less chances to mess up. he gets pretty into it, so he doesn't cover everything he puts on the sylabus.

3.0
3.0
PHIL1305
Oct 10, 2003

No Comments

4.0
2.0
PHIL1317
Grade: A
Mar 15, 2004

Take this guy for business ethics

5.0
4.0
PHIL1318
Apr 24, 2004

Awesome teacher. He makes the issues we discuss very interesting and always has great stories. The quizzes are tough and so are the tests, but not that bad if you study. Hes awesome.

4.0
2.0
BUSETHICS
May 17, 2004

He is very nice and his class is fairly easy if you pay attention, but he is so out there and makes weird sexual comments....

3.0
1.0
BUSETHICS
Dec 30, 2004

The first half of the course is extremely boring, but it picks up at the end when the material becomes interesting. His quizes are a bit tricky, T or F stuff as well is his tests, but overall this class is pretty easy and if you keep up with the reading you'll be fine. He's also a funny guy at times

2.0
3.0
BUSINESSETHICS
Jan 17, 2005

This class involves constant reading, and if you dont keep up then you'll pull a C at best. He speaks in circles and way too fast to understand most of the time. Tests aren't too tough, but the true/false can definitely trip you up because his wording is ridiculous. He can be funny sometimes.

2.0
4.0
CONTEMPMORAL
Sep 11, 2005

I didn't enjoy this class at all. The subject matter only concerned the ethics of war, and I was expecting a much different class with a larger variety of topics.

4.0
4.0
EXISTENTIALISM
Oct 24, 2005

Very difficult, but challenging subject. This is Hiltz's favorite class, and it shows. Great recommendation for anybody looking to be challenged.

4.0
2.0
PHIL1317
Nov 15, 2006

hes a pretty damned goood teacher. attendance is mandatory..he gives pop quizes, but u can miss 2 and it wont count against u..the tests are prettyt easy...most people get b's....theres some reading but its all preety basic...hes better than the other bus ethics teacher and plus u dont have to write any papers.

2.0
3.0
PHIL1317
May 17, 2007

He's an okay teacher. Talks in circles, class is soooo boring. Didn't read the book all semester but would read the chapter summaries and class notes before tests. Only had 2 tests whole year, no quizzes, and one 6 page paper that's pretty easy to bs. Only take if you plan on going to class bc he takes role almost everyday!

3.0
3.0
PHIL3383
May 5, 2008

he is not a great professor. He doesn't know how to explain things in a way that REGULAR-NOT-PH.D.-HOLDING people will understand or care about. His essay quizzes are bad because half the class doesn't understand what he wants. The only good thing is understands that he is not a good professor so he lets you redo it.

4.0
3.0
PHIL1317
Jan 21, 2009

I got an A in Business Ethics, my lowest grade in the class was a 98. If you work hard and ACTUALLY give the class some effort you can do well. Others in my class did poorly or average and hated it but they also didnt study for tests. He wants you to memorize some definitions word for word, and doing so helps answer his other questions correctly.

4.0
2.0
PHIL1300
Nov 13, 2009

Not a terrible professor but if you're a conservative/republican, you will not like this guy. Constantly throws out his left-wing liberal views. actually does want you to get an A though. READ THE BOOK.

4.0
4.0
PHIL1317
Nov 30, 2009

uhmm good guy. some of the stuff he talks about will go right over your head and you won't understand. but it is philosophy afterall. doing ok got a b in his class. alot of reading. try and keep up. a couple little papers at the end and an exam. class is so boring.

2.0
3.0
PHIL1317
May 7, 2010

Unless you love philosophy...do not take this class. He talks at you for 50 minutes about the most boring things. He does not help you understand what will be on the tests at all. He merely says "anything we've covered is fair game, and no, i will not give you a review sheet"

2.0
5.0
PHIL1307
May 11, 2010

brutal.

3.0
3.0
PHIL1300
May 19, 2010

Very nice guy but does not demand much of students - which shows in the class test average (C+). If you keep up with readings, you'll be fine. 1300 is an easy course. Prof Hiltz uses Fox News as his whipping-boy but ironically, he utilizes many of the rhetorical devices in class he claims to despise

2.0
2.0
PHIL3371
Jun 8, 2010

Easy A if you attend the class and listen, his lectures are extremely dry though. For tests I just studied my lecture notes and made high A's, but you have to do some reading for the papers which are not too bad. If you get it done you should be fine. Multiple choice tests, feeds you what he wants in your papers.

2.0
3.0
PHIL1300
Aug 24, 2010

Practical Reasoning-never met a less helpful uninterested professor. also seems VERY uneducated on subject.

2.0
4.0
PHIL1318
Jan 7, 2011

This class was dreadful! It was not interesting and the content was interesting but the was the professor taught it made the class miserable. The class includes pop quizzes, two tests, and a 8-10 page paper. I got an A still but had NO idea what my grade was going to be until final grades were posted. I would not recommend this teacher!

1.0
4.0
PHIL1318
Jan 7, 2011

Horrible class. He does not explain his thoughts clearly. Class is extremely boring and you will fall asleep. 8 pop quizzes and they are hard. He loves True/False.

4.0
2.0
PHIL1318
Dec 13, 2011

Professor Hiltz really isn't as bad as everyone on here has made him out to be. The class is very easy to get an A in and the quizzes are NOT hard. All you have to do is show up for class, take notes, and read (but you don't even have to do all of the assigned reading to do well in the class). Don't let these reviews on here scare you. It was easy.

2.0
4.0
PHIL1317
Jan 2, 2012

Business ethics with Hiltz is awful. Class is VERY boring. Only grades in the class are two huge tests, final, and a research paper. He was fired as a University of Phoenix teacher... Don't take his class

5.0
4.0
PHIL3352
Mar 7, 2012

I love Prof. Hiltz! Be sure to take one of his classes. Don't pay much attention to the whining from those non-majors who took his Business Ethics class. Hiltz is easily one of my favorite professors at SMU.

1.0
4.0
PHIL000
May 4, 2012

Boring lectures. Rambles a lot. Considered himself an easy grader but if you don't memorize what he writes on the board word for word you get points off on your tests.

2.0
4.0
PHIL1300
Jan 17, 2013

Takes attendance every class. Rants about us being late but shows up 5 min late every day. Grade comes from two tests and a final, which aren't hard if you know what to study, but don't count on any help from him. Class is so boring, and he talks in circles about nothing.

4.0
3.0
1300
Apr 27, 2013

The best course I took at SMU

4.0
3.0
PHIL1317
Grade: C+
Oct 28, 2013

I don't understand what people are complaining about.Yes, the class is boring, but I don't think thats the professors fault. The subject is what is boring. He's approachable and will be more than happy to clarify things for student when they don't understand something.

2.0
3.0
PHIL1318
Nov 25, 2013

Rambles a lot. Refuses to explain what will be on test due to the fact that he "never had that privilege". Takes attendance. Class participation is 10% of the grade and if he doesn't like your opinion he will mock you in class. As long as you read EVERYTHING he assigns and try to speak up a few times you should be fine.

2.0
5.0
PHIL1300
Dec 16, 2013

He is not a good professor at all. He is least interested in his teaching. He has only 2 tests and 2 papers, which does not allow room for improvement. No discussions, boring class. Don't take him unless you have to.

3.0
2.0
PHIL1300
Apr 15, 2014

With hiltz, there are 3 or 4 homework assignments that he doesn't change each semester. IF you have a friend that took the class, look at their tests for review. all you have to do is memorize some vocal words and have someone sign you in on the attendance sign in sheet. Its an easy A if you put in a little effort

3.0
2.0
PHIL1317
Grade: B+
May 12, 2014

Givin 8 quizzes a semester. Easy to earn at least 90 If you take the notes n. do assigned reading. I was too lazy to read the book, so didn't do well in reading part of 6 quizzes. I got 91 and 100 for the rest 2 quizzes when well-prepared. 1 independent project relate to videos and theories we've learnt. 1 midterm, and 1 final with an essay.

1.0
5.0
PHIL3383
Jun 6, 2014

I took his course in Taos, and I was one of 3 students in the class. He helped me with an essay, yet he gave me a C on it, which dropped my A to a B. I worked so hard for this class...and I didn't get the grade I earned. He does not help you if you need an A & you try. The course was 17 days, class 3 hours a day. SO BORING. too much reading.

5.0
1.0
PHIL3383
Aug 8, 2014

Recommending the Taos course. Philosophy in Taos? No brainer! Take it! It's not much different than other PHIL courses. Show up, read the assigned material, show any bit of interest whatsoever and discuss in class. Notice it's an 'upper level' PHIL course, so do stay away if you're not into philosophy. He was way more helpful than other profs...

1.0
3.0
PHIL1301
Dec 14, 2014

He doesn't really care too much about his students. He doesn't do anything to aid success. All of his lectures are highly opinionated and leaves no room for discussion. He would rather flaunt his philosophy knowledge than make sure his students are learning. His lectures are dead boring. However, the tests aren't that bad and he doesn't grade hard

1.0
5.0
1300
Grade: C-
Dec 19, 2014

By far the worst instructor I have EVER had!!! I went to him during office hours and was told to ask any questions I have during class, so do not go to him for help because he will NOT help you what so ever! His grading does not mathematically make sense! HE makes up quizzes and does not even know the correct answers.

5.0
1.0
PHIL1318
Grade: A
Jan 28, 2015

Hiltz was a really great professor to take because he gave 3 test all semester, had no final, and gave easy quizzes. If you show up and take notes on the lecture, you'll be prepared for the quizzes, and his grading scale is super lax too. Definitely recommend!

2.0
4.0
PHIL3371
Grade: A-
Apr 28, 2015

Hiltz is super confusing. Everything he says is a riddle that you have to try to figure out. He does not know how to explain the info in simpler terms if you need help. His quizzes are not hard if you pay attention, but his midtermfinal papers are a bit difficult.

2.0
4.0
PHIL1300
May 3, 2015

Took it as an intro type class but he taught it more like an advanced class. He spent more time talking and comparing poker and gambling to philosophy so the Gamblers Fallacy was interesting. Attendance was mandatory. Avoid if possible

5.0
2.0
PHIL1318
Grade: A
Nov 13, 2015

This was my favorite class this semester and that says a lot coming from a biology major. His lectures are super interesting and insightful. If you show up to class, copy the notes on the board, and do the readings as he asks, you'll be good for an A. In my opinion, people who don't do well in his class overthink it and study too intensely.

3.0
3.0
PHIL1317
Grade: A
Dec 13, 2015

You've got to pay attention and keep up for an A. Readings challenge you and you will need to think about the content to understand the concepts--simply reading and walking away won't allow you to fully understand material. Ask questions and participate in class and you'll get helpful clarity/feedback. Good guy but not an easy A.

3.0
4.0
PHIL1301
Grade: C+
Dec 16, 2015

If you're really into it, then he's good. Test ain't that hard tbh. He has two tests only. You need to keep alot of track on what he's doing!

2.0
4.0
PHIL3352
Apr 12, 2016

While it is evident that Hiltz is very knowledgeable when it comes to the material, his lectures are not at all clear. Personally, when I ask a question, I come away flustered and unmotivated to engage with the material. The lectures are mainly chalk talks with hardly any opportunity for interaction. When asking questions, I am usually interrupted

2.0
3.0
PHIL1318
Grade: B+
Oct 26, 2016
Wouldn't take again

Hes super boring... the whole class is literally him just blabbering on about philosophy. He really does care about the topic and is willing to help you, but I wouldn't say this is my favorite.

Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
3.0
3.0
PHIL1318
Grade: A-
Nov 9, 2016
Wouldn't take again

He's okay. The material is pretty interesting although the readings aren't always. He gets up on a soap box a lot.

Get ready to read
4.0
3.0
PHIL1318
Dec 14, 2016
Would take again

Professor Hiltz is a great professor, and is definitely a good choice for someone taking an intro to philosophy course. The course is heavily based on the readings he assigns, but he thoroughly explains them during lecture. There are t/f reading quizzes for every essay, and his wording is a bit tricky, but not impossible. Best part is, no essays!

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
4.0
3.0
PHIL1318
Grade: A-
Mar 21, 2017
Would take again

Hiltz is a really nice guy. His class can get boring (especially beginning half) he is very long winded and is old school (writes on a chalkboard, no technology in class). He is a very fair grader for the 8 mini quizzes and 2 tests. The wording can be tricky but if you study the reading and his lecture notes you should be good! He curves!

Get ready to read
Inspirational
5.0
3.0
PHIL1318
Grade: A
Apr 26, 2017
Would take again

Hiltz expects you to do the readings and actually think about the material covered. When that doesn't happen, he knows. People are quick to judge, but as long as you apply yourself and question things, it's really not hard to do well in his class.

Participation matters
Clear grading criteria
Amazing lectures
3.0
3.0
PHIL1318
Grade: A
May 17, 2017
Wouldn't take again

He is super boring! Lectures always put me to sleep, but his class isn't hard especially if you know someone who had him before to help you with quizzes. He assigns a lot of reading, but you can get away with just notes from lecture if you pay attention. The way he does grades is weird with only one test and lots of quizzes during the semester.

TEST HEAVY
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
4.0
3.0
PHIL1318
Grade: B+
Jan 8, 2018
Would take again

I found his lectures engaging and interesting. DO THE READINGS! they're really helpful, especially when studying for quizzes. As long as you read and go to the lectures the quizzes are easy, but he is a tough grader. Available for help outside of class. sometimes goes on tangents but you get through the material you need to in time.

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
3.0
PHIL1318
Grade: A
Aug 22, 2018
Would take again

Professor Hiltz was not a very tough professor. He just expects you to be accountable of your education and to put effort in the class (the usual). You do have to read carefully and take notes, but it's manageable. I recommend study groups or flashcards to study. The quizzes prepare you well for the tests and do not get behind in your readings!!!

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
LECTURE HEAVY
4.0
2.0
PHIL3352
Grade: A-
Oct 9, 2018
Would take again

Pretty easy professor, I took him 3 times and got A-'s each time. If you read, the quizzes (almost always true/false) aren't hard and he's a very fair grader when it comes to papers. The only thing that keeps me from giving him a 5 is that he talks over people when they try to ask questions or contribute to the discussion - it's really annoying

Gives good feedback
GRADED BY FEW THINGS
LECTURE HEAVY
3.0
3.0
PHIL1318
Oct 25, 2018
Would take again

hes fine, kind of annoying but if you show up and review a little you'll get a good grade. no pop quizzes he tells you when everything will be, and we had one test and then test 2&3 were the final and no papers or homework besides the quizzes. never read the textbook

Tough Grader
Skip class? You won't pass.
Clear grading criteria
1.0
5.0
PHIL1317
Grade: B-
Dec 10, 2018
Wouldn't take again

DO NOT take his class for an essay A. Hard grader, no sympathy for grammar. ALL definitions on quizzes and test must be word for word or you get points off. Very lecture heavy, must read textbooks or you wont pass. very opinionated and biased, towards apposing views. Midterm , final essay project ( individual), Final like midterm and essay Q.

Tough Grader
Get ready to read
Skip class? You won't pass.
3.0
3.0
PHIL1307
Grade: B+
Dec 20, 2018
Wouldn't take again

Lectures are confusing and boring, but he posts documents on Canvas that summarize the main points. Reading is manageable and the material is relatively interesting. Weekly quizzes on the readings, midterm, final, and one research paper. He is a fair grader. Attendance is mandatory.

Participation matters
Skip class? You won't pass.
LECTURE HEAVY
5.0
3.0
PHIL1300
Grade: A-
May 17, 2019
Would take again

Great teacher, who really cares. If you actually do the reading and go to class you will do well. Makes it easy to do well if you put in the work. Teaches interesting stuff and actually knows what hes talking about. He loves participation.

Gives good feedback
Get ready to read
Amazing lectures
5.0
3.0
PHIL1300
Grade: A-
Dec 17, 2019
Would take again

love this guy. real gem and gets a bad rep bc hes kinda pretentious but not rlly in a bad way, just in a "i went to Princeton and studied a non-subject" kind of way. but a hella chill guy if u show up

Gives good feedback
Respected
Participation matters
2.0
3.0
PHIL3371
Apr 8, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Probably the most arrogant professor you'll run into in the philosophy department. Says lectures are discussion-based but we've had maybe two all year. Guy definitely loves to hear himself talk and doesn't really care all that much about the students. The class itself isn't hard, but he makes it significantly harder than it needs to be

Lecture heavy
1.0
1.0
PHIL1300
Grade: A
May 5, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Prof. Hiltz was constantly disrespectful and rude to his students. Would show up late to office hours, and he got mad at us when we didn't ask questions, but if you did, he would just say that you would already know the answer if you paid more attention. A super easy A, but so rude to his students, so don't expect an understanding professor

Graded by few things
5.0
2.0
PHIL3371
Grade: A
May 13, 2020
Would take again

Shocked to see how low his ratings are. For political/social the midterm, final paper and quizzes are each a third of your grade. Never read the assigned readings and didn't have any problems. Provides detailed notes on the readings and lectures. I can see how some might not like his persona, he's quirky but he's insanely smart and caring guy.

Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
Caring
5.0
3.0
PHIL3352
Grade: A
Aug 8, 2020
Would take again

Took his class in summer online. If you zone out you're screwed, but if you take good notes you're good. I stopped doing the readings after the first week and did well. His notes/lectures are comprehensive, but make sure to read and listen closely. Read carefully on the quizzes but they're straight from his Canvas notes. Fair grader on papers (2)

Accessible outside class
Skip class? You won't pass.
Lecture heavy
5.0
3.0
PHIL1318
Grade: A-
Nov 18, 2020
Would take again

Does not deserve the low rating, he expects participation and people to do the homework. If you do the minimal homework (15-30 minutes of reading per class) and pay attention in class you will get good grades, he will respect you, and the class will be an easy grade.

Skip class? You won't pass.
Test heavy
Lecture heavy
1.0
3.0
PHIL1318
Grade: A-
Nov 22, 2020
Wouldn't take again

Deserves the low ratings, talks on and on with no interaction, doesn't answer questions and makes you feel dumb when you ask anything, never is in his office hours, and could not be more boring. Uses the same quizzes, so get them from someone and you'll do fine if you don't die from boredom first.

Get ready to read
Graded by few things
Lecture heavy
2.0
4.0
PHIL1318
Grade: B+
Nov 24, 2020
Wouldn't take again

I think the reviews are pretty indicative. Some very interesting material at times, but presented in the most boring way possible. First few quizzes were very tough, but once you get to know his style in the questions they aren't too bad. He is available often, it's just the class itself is quite the bore.

Accessible outside class
Skip class? You won't pass.
Lecture heavy
1.0
4.0
PHIL318
Mar 21, 2021
Wouldn't take again

yo this professor is so rude, mans acting like we dont have other things to deal with outta school. he strict as hell anyways he completely shames you if u miss like one class. He makes you feel like a complete idiot. So anyways warning: try to avoid this professor as much as u can. Spare yourself. Word out.

Lots of homework
1.0
4.0
PHIL1317
Apr 20, 2021
Wouldn't take again

At the beginning of the semester, he started off being pretty good and helping out a lot. The fact that this is my first time rating a professor shows a lot about what I've been going through with this class. He honestly gets distracted while teaching forgets what he was saying. All of the grades are quizzes and 2 very hard exams. Get ready to read

Lots of homework
Get ready to read
Test heavy
2.0
4.0
PHIL1317
Grade: A+
Apr 30, 2021
Wouldn't take again

If you arent a fan of politics in class, I would keep away. That said, Im not critical of his views; I just dont think it is class appropriate. He makes you work for everything. You pretty much get a quiz per week. He gets angry if people dont ask him questions, but when you do ask, he has a tendency to shame you for not knowing the answer.

Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
Tough grader
1.0
4.0
PHIL1317
May 11, 2021
Wouldn't take again

Take someone else if you can. Incredibly rude to students and talks at you, not to you. He barely knows how to use canvas, you have to search around to find homework or any info. Makes rude and weird comments about other people and lectures in the most monotone voice. Doesn't involve students in lectures, literally doesn't care about kids at all.

Get ready to read
Tough grader
1.0
4.0
PHIL1317
Grade: B+
May 11, 2021
Wouldn't take again

This class is composed of lectures, quizes, one essay, and two exams. The lectures are boring and often include tangents. There is little to no participation from students during class. Alot of reading is required and the books and articles are not interesting. Canvas page is confusing and unclear and it is difficult to find information.

Get ready to read
Test heavy
Lecture heavy
1.0
1.0
PHIL1300
Grade: B-
Aug 7, 2021
Wouldn't take again

I took his class a really long time ago in the summer and it was mind-numbingly boring. He doesn't allow anyone to talk in class, but just talks over you. Think of "The Dude" from the Big Lebowski, only not interesting and much more arrogant, and you have Professor Hiltz.

Skip class? You won't pass.
1.0
3.0
PHIL1317
Dec 2, 2021
Wouldn't take again

The class is very boring and goes on tangents. Canvas is super confusing and hard to understand. He never admits he is wrong either. Make sure you do good on the quizzes because that's all you're graded on.

Get ready to read
Graded by few things
1.0
4.0
PHIL1300
Grade: B-
Dec 10, 2021
Wouldn't take again

He doesnt care about his students at all. He is rude every time you approach him with questions. He assigns homework that you will spend hours on just for it not to go into your grade at the end of the semester. He will never admit he is wrong even though he continuously makes stuff up. My only advice is do not take his class.

Tough grader
3.0
2.0
PHIL1317
Grade: A-
Dec 13, 2021
Would take again

He has a sign in sheet for attendance everyday so you can't skip class. If you don't keep up with the readings you'll be very confused during his lectures. He doesn't let other students participate or ask questions during class and his lectures are very boring. It's an interesting subject though and I enjoyed it.

Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
1.0
3.0
PHIL1300
Grade: C+
Dec 29, 2021
Wouldn't take again

The worst teacher I have ever had in my entire life. he is so rude and disrespectful. Students are barely able to ask questions because he interrupts because he doesn't care. Class is so beyond boring, he's a horrible teacher and makes the content so much more confusing. Grade is based on 3 tests & final. The points taken off for tests are absurd

Graded by few things
Test heavy
Tough grader
1.0
2.0
PHIL1317
Grade: A
Mar 8, 2022

Easy class, disrespectful teacher. As long as you never talk, you will do just fine.

1.0
5.0
PHIL1301
Grade: D+
Apr 5, 2022

This was the worst professor and class I have ever experienced. Has no assignments to help course grade throughout the year other than a couple tests and quizzes. Lectures the entire time, is rude to students, and acts like he never cares about anything other than himself. Never ever take this class.

Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
1.0
4.0
PHIL1318
Grade: B
May 1, 2022

Quite possibly the worst and most boring teacher I have ever had. Only take this class if you want to waste 3 hours a week coming to a lecture that will put you to sleep in 5 minutes. Everything "taught" in this could be figured out by flipping through the readings, and all of his tests/quizzes consist of memorizing over-complicated definitions.

Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
2.0
3.0
PHIL1318
Grade: C
May 8, 2022

I highly recommend against taking this professor. The class boiled down to him going over slides; his quizzes/tests consisting entirely of memorizing specific concepts and terms word for word. Near the end of the semester I could've cared less about the class or the content we were learning. Don't take it unless you want a bore-fest.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
1.0
3.0
PHIL3371
Grade: Rather not say
Nov 8, 2022

boring

Lecture heavy
Test heavy
5.0
2.0
PHIL1300
Grade: B+
Feb 1, 2023
Would take again

The class was easy, even though I'm an international student. He was always available to help me during his office hours. If you try and show that you care by going to his office hours or engaging in class, he will appreciate it. I recommend professor Hiltz.

Caring
Graded by few things
2.0
4.0
CONTEMPMORAL
Grade: A
Mar 3, 2023

If you sign up for this class, be prepared to fall asleep every day. This course would be better if taught by a houseplant and would be more interesting as well. The lectures are boring, the professor is biased and will try to teach you his opinions, encourages you to voice yours, then gets upset when he can't defend his own. DO NOT TAKE HIM!

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
1.0
4.0
PHIL1317
Grade: B
Mar 29, 2023

Do not take this class. Man loves to hear himself talk and belittles you if you ask questions. No phones or laptops allowed in class and nothing he says is of substance so you're stuck staring at his PowerPoint slides for 50 minutes. Really hard grader and won't give you pity points, canvas is confusing and there is so much reading it hurts.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
PHIL1300
Grade: C+
Apr 26, 2023

Probably the worst class I've ever taken at SMU. Don't take this class unless you want to be seriously depressed for a semester. He cold calls so much and cuts no slack. He's funny sometimes which I can appreciate but otherwise I can't stand him.

Test heavy
3.0
3.0
PHIL1317
Grade: A-
May 7, 2023

Hiltz is actually not bad, if you keep up with the readings (yes, you have to buy the book to succeed on the quizzes). Classes were often a little boring and he got pretty defensive when people actually inquired about the material.

Get ready to read
Clear grading criteria
Lecture heavy
2.0
4.0
PHIL1317
Grade: A-
Nov 28, 2023

Professor Hiltz is a nice and funny guy but his class is very confusing due to his teaching style. His canvas is scattered and its hard to find the right materials. Also, he purposely words his quiz questions to try and trick you. The class was just not very interesting overall.

Get ready to read
5.0
3.0
PHIL1317
Grade: A
Dec 1, 2023
Would take again

Hiltz gets a bad rap, but he is a really good teacher and cares about teaching his students the course material. He goes over his expectations in the beginning of the course, and you should be fine as long as you read most of the readings.

Get ready to read
Respected
Lecture heavy
3.0
4.0
BUSINESSETHICS
Grade: A-
Jan 13, 2024
Would take again

Lectures often veer off-topic, and the curriculum is generally unstructured. The textbook involved is sometimes difficult to follow, however fairly simple. The midterm and final exams make up most of the grade, alongside bi-weekly quizzes. Several movies are examined throughout the length of the course, which makes it often fairly enjoyable.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
BUSINESSETHICS
Apr 11, 2024

shows minimal expertise in the subject and has an off-putting attitude, demeanor in class is so unfriendly and uses a sense of humor that is rude and inappropriate

1.0
5.0
PHIL1317
Apr 23, 2024

this guy gets sooooo defensive if you ask him any questions, its a fun game to play during class

1.0
4.0
BUSETHICS
Grade: B-
May 6, 2024

This guy has a stick so far up his you know what, I'm surprised he can even touch the ground. I took this class for a CC credit and I would advise anyone looking for a chill class not to take this class. I would rather listen someone scratching a chalkboard for an hour than listen to his lecture for a minute.

Tough grader
1.0
5.0
PHIL1317
May 6, 2024

DO NOT TAKE THIS PROFESSOR! He is rude, doesn't take emails and if you do send him an email you will get back a rude response. The class wasn't super hard, it's just that he doesn't do anything to try and help you succeed in the class.

Tough grader
Graded by few things
4.0
4.0
BUSINESSETHICS
Grade: B
May 9, 2024
Would take again

I don't understand the bad reviews. He is not a hard professor and his course is pretty interesting. Just do well on the assignments and you will have an ok time. When he says write word for word, legit write word for word for definitions. I wish I did better on the first midterm but we ball. Def could've ended with an A. Its not hard, trust.

1.0
4.0
PHIL1317
May 9, 2024

rudest professor i have ever met in my entire educational life, he somehow can even be rude in email without trying and only using four words. do not take this guy, horrible

2.0
4.0
PHIL3352
Grade: B
May 13, 2024

He's ok but can be rude in class and through emails & comments on assignments. He also seemed passive-aggressive at times, like if someone asked a question he didn't like or when he would hit the wall/table a little too passionately for just educational purposes. a lot of reading, proctored quizzes, 2 essays, and attendance is taken. Godspeed

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
PHIL3352
May 16, 2024

Steer clear of this class and professor, he is intensely passive-aggressive when asked ANY question or you showcase any possibly different opinion. He gets so defensive and then sputters like he's about to explode, not to mention the constant rolling of the eyes and pounding on things with his fist. Needs help.

1.0
5.0
PHIL1301
Aug 1, 2024

serious think he has mental health issues

1.0
5.0
BUSINESSETHICS
Grade: Not sure yet
Oct 4, 2024

His lectures are torture. Once he called out a girl for being on her phone then proceeded to go on a 10 min rant to petition to ban all phones from campus. The quizzes are all trick questions, he is passive aggressive, and expects a lot from you even tho it's a 1000 level class. Avoid if possible! I truly don't know how imma make pass this semester

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
1.0
4.0
BUSINESSETHICS
Oct 18, 2024

There is no student-teacher relationship with this guy. Passive aggressive is the most common word to describe him. It is very difficult to listen to this guy BLAB three times a week for 50 minutes, just take notes on the board.

1.0
3.0
BUSINESSETHICS
Grade: A+
Oct 22, 2024

terrible class, main way of thinking could be summed up in about 5 minutes. The book is a steaming pile of sh#t. The way he grades is so weird. Quiz questions are mostly tricks. Has a hard time with yes or no questions, rather yap about if for 20 minutes. Makes a class that should be easy hard. Needs to fix posture. DO NOT TAKE. DO NOT TAKE.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Graded by few things
1.0
5.0
BUSINESSETHICS
Oct 28, 2024

Something not right with this professor and irony with what he teaches. He talks about other professors in an offensive way when they walk by, specifically females when they climb the stairs and he specifically mentions their bottom, super passive aggressive toward everyone and seems to hate all equally, talks nonstop but doesn't teach anything

1.0
5.0
1300
Oct 28, 2024

It is very difficult to do well in this course, he is unclear about topics and he is very condescending to students. I wish administration would read these and do something about him.

2.0
1.0
1300
Grade: A+
Oct 28, 2024

The lectures feel pointless, yet attendance is required, and Hiltz is the most cynical professor I have ever had. The class is only 50 minutes but there is always a 5-10-minute lecture about something we are doing wrong/a hypothetical thing we could be doing wrong. Just read the textbook and you will be fine grade-wise.

Accessible outside class
1.0
4.0
BUSETHICS
Grade: B+
Nov 11, 2024

The worst professor I have ever seen. There is no reason for his class to be structured the way it is. If you are looking for an easy "A" this is not it.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
BUSINESSETHICS
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 12, 2024

Terrible professor, and the $100 book you are supposed to rent is one of the worst books I've ever laid my eyes on.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
3.0
5.0
PHIL1317
Grade: Not sure yet
Nov 14, 2024

He's one of those professor's who like to make lectures hard for no reason. This class is supposed to be an easy A and he knows that and makes it as hard as possible to get an A. He is helpful in office hours tho. Overall, if you are looking for a gpa boost do not take Hiltz for business ethics.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Test heavy
1.0
4.0
PHIL1317
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 3, 2024

Lectures make no sense and are very long for no reason. The required book relates very little to the actual class. He is very passive aggressive and defensive. Quiz questions try to trick you, there is a quiz almost every Friday outside of class as well. Strongly do not recommend this course.

Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
PHIL1317
Grade: B+
Dec 10, 2024

horrible. very strict. will take off 10 points for adding the words "it is" to a definition. very very textbook oriented and wants tons of definitions word for word.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Graded by few things
1.0
3.0
PHIL1317
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 11, 2024

This professor takes this class to seriously and sucks at teaching. Lectures are tortures and his instructions are an essay long for homework. Overall, all the quizzes are on Quizlet. The homework was easy due to me using the internet. For the midterm its questions like the quizzes plus some definition questions. And I have no idea about the final.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
2.0
3.0
BUSETHICS
Grade: A-
Dec 19, 2024

People give him a super harsh rating, but if you actually read, pay attention, and study, it is not an impossible class. However, you have to write as if you agree with his views etc which sucks. The final was hard but doable. My paper was 15 pages this year, so take that if u will. I do not like him, but he is dedicated to what he believes.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
3.0
4.0
PHIL1317
Grade: A-
Dec 19, 2024

The course itself isn't extremely difficult. You will be fine if you read the book and the course material he posts. You can tell he's actually pretty passionate about what he teaches, but his lectures can be very unstructured, and he tends to go off on random tangents. Just a big emphasis on READ the book and don't depend on his lectures.

Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
PHIL1300
Jan 9, 2025

Not understanding and will not accommodate students. Refused to excuse absences due to immediate family death and he gives off creepy vibes even sexually referenced another professor in another department who i know and then played it off as a joke.

1.0
4.0
BUSETHICS
Grade: A
Jan 16, 2025

DO NOT take this class. He is the worst prof i have ever had, the longest 50 mins of my life. Falsely accused students of using AI and then refused to hear any of them out or meet with them about it so they all failed the assignment. including myself. not a hard class but his excessive quizzes and unnecessary assignments make it harder.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
1.0
5.0
1300
Feb 8, 2025

This person should not be a professor especially sour with students and gives no breaks no barred what is going on in your life. Accused half us of using ai with no proof and he is a total creep with an obsession over female professor in his building he sexually references then laughs like its not base harassment.

Tough grader
1.0
5.0
PHIL1301
Grade: A
Feb 17, 2025

Dont recommend him whatsoever. It's a philosophy credit, but he treats it like you have no other classes. He's aggressive and is notorious for yelling at kids in front of the class It happened to 4 ppl in my class alone. If you accidently miss something, he will leave horrid comments on ur submission and show it to everyone in class.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Lots of homework
1.0
5.0
PHIL1301
Grade: B+
Feb 19, 2025

I can't believe he has any job much less one at a prestigious institution, hes the guy whos gonna be fired one day and we all just shrug and say, yea.......figured. He says suggestive things about another professor female in a diff department in hyer laughs about sexualizing her while making us all feel uncomfotable shes a nice lady we all like to

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Participation matters
2.0
5.0
PHIL3352
Grade: Not sure yet
Mar 7, 2025

There are a million different topics in all his slides, readings, and lectures with only 1 quiz question on some quizzes. You better hope luck is in your favor. Other quizzes have T or F questions with questions designed to trick you. Insane work load.

Get ready to read
Lots of homework
Lecture heavy
1.0
4.0
BUSINESSETHICS
Mar 25, 2025

Steve Hiltz..... For starters I want to say it is hard to find a professor who could care less if you do well in his class because he feels that he is gods gift to philosophy and loves to tell you about how much he knows. Lectures at you for 50 minutes straight. Offers no help when it comes to reaching out for assistance. Truly awful expierence.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
1.0
4.0
BUSETHICS
Mar 26, 2025

Yes, if you read the book(which is the most boring read there is, with little to no intellectual stimulation) then the course will naturally be easier, but It will not take from the fact that Professor Hiltz does not want you to do good in his class. Grading is all done based on his opinion of you and your knowledge. DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS CLASS!

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
PHIL1301
Mar 28, 2025

He literally talks about another professors bottom as she's walking up the stairs in hyer in front of the whole class. Then r

1.0
5.0
PHIL1300
Apr 16, 2025

This professor is the worst professor I have EVER TAKEN. I read RMP before selecting this class and ignored the reviews but I was wrong and should've listened. his class is so effing boring and his tests are so effing hard. Good Luck.

Lecture heavy
2.0
3.0
BUSETHICS
Grade: B
Apr 23, 2025

There are a lot of things to say, but not enough words to say them. He is unclear with his instructions, and if you are a girl, I am so sorry you will be stared at. It is his way or the highway when it comes to philosophical ideas and conversation. Tests are very specific in wording, and he talks to you the whole class. Don't take this class.

Tough grader
Participation matters
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
PHIL1300
Apr 23, 2025

How this guy even has a job is the most mind boggling riddle of the century. Openly disrespectful to girls in class, ugly to guys, and even to a female professor who works in his building taking about her sexually.

1.0
4.0
PHIL1301
Grade: C+
May 15, 2025

Would never take one of his classes again. Constantly makes weird comments during lectures that make everyone look around in suprise of what he just said. Talks way to much about his personal life and even mentions how he's constantly in a bad mood because he stays up playing poker tournaments up till 3am. (Have to write a 4,000 word essay aswell)

Tough grader
So many papers
Lecture heavy
1.0
4.0
PHIL1301
May 15, 2025

Listen to the reviews, do not take his classes. Just yaps for 50 minutes and it doesn't help. It is the class you look the least forward to all semester. Easily up there for worst professors at SMU. He does not want you to succeed. Even when proven wrong on his points, he shuts the conversation down in embarrassment and makes weird comments a lot.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
So many papers
2.0
4.0
BUSINESSETHICS
Nov 7, 2025

This class is truly one of the worst classes you can take. He just talks for 50+ minutes and the lectures have nothing to do with what he posts on the modules. He makes you take lockdown browser quizzes that cover literally anything and there's no way to study for it. The class is so boring nothing to do with Business ethics at all.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Test heavy
1.0
4.0
PHIL1317
Grade: D-
Nov 7, 2025

He talks so much, and half of what he's saying isn't even relevant to what he's trying to say. I've tried to lock in and pay attention, but I literally can't, it's so bad. His handwriting is so bad that I can never read what he's writing on the board.

Lecture heavy
3.0
4.0
BUSINESSETHICS
Grade: A
Nov 12, 2025
Would take again

If you read the textbook and stay up to date on reading you should be fine, but you will def need to study for this class. Not just an easy cc.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Lecture heavy
1.0
4.0
BUSETHICS
Grade: B+
Nov 13, 2025

I still have nightmares from this class

Tough grader
Get ready to read
1.0
5.0
BUSINESSETHICS
Nov 18, 2025

Worst teacher at SMU. Just babbles. Says really unapproved things. Talks about inappropriate topics to girls even says things about a professor like he's wanting her sexually and that she's a C*%# for not wanting the same. THIS WAS IN CLASS. NOONE knows how he even has a post here

1.0
5.0
BUSINESSETHICS
Grade: A-
Dec 3, 2025

He assigns tremendous homework loads and his lectures make no sense. He is also kind of creepy and I would not recommend this class to anybody.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Lots of homework
1.0
5.0
BUSETHICS
Grade: A-
Dec 3, 2025

Every once in awhile, I will still have nightmares about this class. If you are in this, thank you so much for contributing towards filling in this class.

Tough grader
Clear grading criteria
Lecture heavy
1.0
5.0
BUSETHICS
Grade: Not sure yet
Dec 15, 2025

Pretty much all the other reviews on here are speaking the truth. Just rambles on and on during lectures without touching on anything on Canvas. Homework was incredibly intensive and the quizzes were engineered to give you a headache.

Tough grader
Get ready to read
Lots of homework
1.0
5.0
PHIL1300
Grade: C+
Dec 16, 2025

This is the worst teacher I have ever had in my entire life. In his lectures, he frequently digresses into his personal life and barely covers the class material. If you go to his office hours, it will be a complete waste of time, where you will learn nothing.

Tough grader
Lecture heavy
Graded by few things
Class Info

Online Classes

100%

Attendance Mandatory

94%

Textbook Required

21%

Grade Predictor

Your expected effort level

LowHigh

Predicted Grade

B+

95% confidence
Based on 65 grades
Most common grades:
A (16)
A- (16)
B+ (11)
Grade Distribution
A(19)B(9)C(8)D(2)F(0)A-/B+(27)
Based on 73 reported grades
A: 16
A-: 16
B+: 11
Not sure yet: 7
Common Tags
Get ready to read (41)
Lecture heavy (37)
Tough grader (35)
Graded by few things (12)
Skip class? You won't pass. (9)
Test heavy (9)
Lots of homework (7)
Participation matters (5)
Rating Trend

Declining

-0.75 avg change
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Last 6 months
Ratings by Course

ECO1311

5.0

(1)

EXISTENTIALISM

4.0

(1)

PHIL1305

3.5

(2)

PHIL1318

3.2

(21)

PHIL3383

3.0

(3)
+12 more courses
Difficulty by Course

PHIL1301

4.4

BUSINESSETHICS

4.3

CONTEMPMORAL

4.0

EXISTENTIALISM

4.0

PHIL1307

4.0

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