Program Overview
Introduction to the Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy
The Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy is an academic journey that offers students the best of a broad liberal education with the ability to specialize in various fields of study. Philosophy, as an academic discipline, is subdivided into areas such as ethics and political philosophy, aesthetics, epistemology, metaphysics, logic, philosophy of logic, philosophy of language, philosophy of mind, philosophy of science, philosophy of religion, and the history of philosophy. Philosophy graduates pursue careers in business, law, the arts, and politics.
Program Structure
The Bachelor of Arts degree is offered as either a B.A. or B.A. (Honours), both requiring the completion of 120 units and normally four years of full-time study.
Courses Required in the First Year
- Fall semester:
- Philosophy 279 or Open Option
- Science Option or Open Option
- Open Option
- Open Option
- Language Option
- Winter semester:
- Philosophy 279 or Open Option
- Science Option or Open Option
- Open Option
- Open Option
- Language Option
Notes on Course Selection
- It is strongly recommended to select at least one of Philosophy 201, 249, 259, or 264 as their Arts Option. Philosophy is a required course that’s recommended for the first year but can be taken later in the program.
- Courses taught in English cannot be used to meet the language requirement. Students are required to complete two courses in the same language. Fluency in a language other than English may be considered as a substitute for the language requirement.
Useful Courses for Specific Interests
- For students interested in Philosophy of Science: courses in Mathematics, Psychology, or Biological or Physical Sciences are useful.
- For students interested in Ethics and Political Philosophy: courses in Political Science are recommended.
- For students interested in Aesthetics: courses in Fine Arts or Literature are suggested.
- For students interested in Philosophy of Language: courses in Linguistics are beneficial.
Faculty and Program Information
Studying for a Bachelor of Arts degree means that you are a student in the Faculty of Arts. The program that you choose refers to the subject area you’d like your Bachelor of Arts degree to focus on.
Credit and Transfer
If you are coming to the University of Calgary with Advanced Placement credit or International Baccalaureate credit, you will follow the same registration process as any first-time university student. You may be eligible to use your transfer credit in your degree program depending on the program you have entered and whether or not the courses are applicable.
Enhancing Your Bachelor of Arts Program
- Co-op and Internship: Gain valuable work experience in your industry through co-operative education and internship opportunities.
- Study Abroad: Experience different cultures and gain a better understanding of world issues while earning credit towards your degree.
- Community Service-Learning: Combine classroom learning with volunteer work that achieves community goals.
- Arts and Science Honours Academy: Be part of a unique program that combines collaborative study, global opportunities, and academic challenge.