Philosophy: General Philosophy, BA
Philosophy seeks to illuminate fundamental aspects of the world, of our relation to and knowledge of the world, and of our own nature as rational, purposive, and social beings. The study of philosophy aims at an appreciation of the ways this enterprise has been, is, and might be approached. It also provides a vantage point for reflecting on the nature and achievement of other disciplines, such as science, the arts, and the humanities. Philosophical topics can be divided roughly into value theory (ethics, politics, aesthetics) and theoretical philosophy (epistemology, metaphysics, mind, and logic). The four concentrations available within the major allow students to emphasize different sets of questions.
The General Philosophy Concentration requires a balanced selection of coursework from within both practical and theoretical philosophy as well as the history of these enterprises.
The minimum total course units for graduation in this major is 32. Double majors may entail more course units.
For more information: http://philosophy.sas.upenn.edu/undergraduate/philosophy-majors-and-minor/philosophy-majors/major-general-philosophy
For information about the General Education requirements, please visit the College of Arts & Sciences Curriculum page.
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| College General Education Requirements and Free Electives | ||
| Foundational Approaches + Sectors1 + Free Electives | 20 | |
| Major Requirements | ||
| Distribution Requirements | ||
| PHIL 1110 | Ancient Greek Philosophy | 1 |
| PHIL 1170 | History of Modern Philosophy | 1 |
| PHIL 1710 | Introduction to Logic | 1 |
| Select 2 courses in Contemporary Theoretical Philosophy (attribute APLT) | 2 | |
| Select 1 course in Value Theory (attribute APLV) | 1 | |
| Level Requirements | ||
| Select 4 course units of Philosophy with at least 2 course units above 2000 and 2 course units at the 3000 or 5000 level | 4 | |
| Other Courses in Philosophy | ||
| Select 5 other courses in Philosophy | ||
| Courses Outside the Philosophy Department | ||
| Select 2 courses outside the Philosophy Department by approval of the Undergraduate Chair | 2 | |
| Total Course Units | 32 | |
- 1
You may count no more than one course toward both a Major and a Sector requirement. For Exceptions, check the Policy Statement.
Honors
Must be a Senior Major in Philosophy and have a minimum 3.33 GPA in the major. Applicants must have completed the distribution requirements for the major including two courses above 2000 one of which must be above 3010. Please consult with the Undergraduate Chair for other specific criteria.
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| PHIL 4998 | Directed Honors Research (or a 5000-level course) | 1 |
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2024 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.