Philosophy: Philosophy and Science, 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 Philosophy and Science Concentration emphasizes theoretical philosophy and philosophy of science; it pairs courses in philosophy with courses in one or more scientific disciplines.

The minimum total course units for graduation in this major is 36. Double majors may entail more course units.

Required: 8 course units in Philosophy and 8 course units in either Natural or Social Science, or Science, Technology, and Society (STSC, previously HSSC).

For information about the General Education requirements, please visit the College of Arts & Sciences Curriculum page.

College General Education Requirements and Free Electives
Foundational Approaches + Sectors1 + Free Electives20
Major Requirements
Distribution Requirements
PHIL 1170History of Modern Philosophy1
PHIL 1710Introduction to Logic1
Select 1 course in Value Theory (attribute APLV)1
Select 2 courses in Philosophy of Science or Philosophy of Math (attribute APLS)2
Select 1 course in Contemporary Theoretical Philosophy (attribute APLT)1
Level Requirements
Select 3 course units in Philosophy Level Requirement, with at least 2 course units 2000 level or above and 1 course unit at the 3000 or 5000 level
Natural or Social Science, or Science, Technology, and Society courses (attribute APNS)
Select 8 courses in Natural or Social Science, or Science, Technology, and Society 28
ASTR 1000:4999
BCHE 1000:4999
BIOL 1000:4999
BIOP 1000:4999
CIS 1000:4999
COGS 1000:4999
LGIC 1000:4999
MATH 0000:4999
NRSC 0000:4999
PHYS 1000:4999
PSYC 1000:4999
STSC 1000:4999
Other Courses in Philosophy2-5
Total Course Units36
1

You may count no more than one course toward both a Major and a Sector requirement. For Exceptions, check the Policy Statement.

2

Minimally, 4 course units must be from one department - No Introductory or Laboratory courses.

Honors

Must be a Senior Major in Philosophy and have a minimum 3.33 GPA in the major. Applicants must have completed the distribution requirement 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.

PHIL 4998Directed 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.