Philosophy, BA: General Philosophy
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.
Required: All courses must be in Philosophy.
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 2 | ||
| Core Requirements | ||
| History of Philosophy | 1 | |
| Introduction to Logic 3 | 1 | |
| Introduction to Contemporary Theoretical | 1 | |
| Philosophy of Science | ||
or PHIL 2620 | Introduction to Epistemology and Metaphysics | |
or PHIL 2640 | Introduction to Philosophy of Mind | |
or PHIL 2680 | Introduction to Metaphysics | |
or PHIL 4800 | Philosophy of Science | |
| Introduction to Ethics | 1 | |
| Ethics | ||
or PHIL 1433 | The Social Contract | |
or PHIL 1450 | Philosophy of Law | |
or PHIL 4330 | Metaethics | |
or PHIL 4331 | Normative Ethics | |
| Concentration Requirements | ||
| Additional History of Philosophy course | 1 | |
| Philosophy Electives | 7 | |
| Level Requirements 4 | ||
Major courses must include at least three 2000-level PHIL courses or higher, 1 of which must be at 3000 or 5000 level | ||
| 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.
- 2
Double counting is allowed between level and core, level and concentration, but not core and concentration. Our major courses may count for another major, but check with other department. At least half of the CUs for the major must be taken at Penn.
- 3
Core logic requirement must be fulfilled with PHIL 1710 or an advanced introduction to logic
- 4
Students must select three 2000-level PHIL courses or higher, 1 of which must be at 3000 or 5000 level
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 2026 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.