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 more information: http://philosophy.sas.upenn.edu/undergraduate/philosophy-majors-and-minor/philosophy-majors/philosophy-and-science-major
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 1170 | History of Modern Philosophy | 1 |
| PHIL 1710 | Introduction to Logic | 1 |
| 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 2 | 8 | |
ASTR 1000:4999 | ||
BCHE 1000:4999 | ||
BIOL 1000:4999 | ||
BIOP 1000:4999 | ||
CHEM 1000:4999 | ||
CIS 1000:4999 | ||
COGS 1000:4999 | ||
CRIM 1000:4999 | ||
EESC 1000:4999 | ||
ENVS 1000:4999 | ||
LGIC 1000:4999 | ||
MATH 0000:4999 | ||
NRSC 0000:4999 | ||
PHYS 1000:4999 | ||
PSYC 1000:4999 | ||
STSC 1000:4999 | ||
| Other Courses in Philosophy | 2-5 | |
| Total Course Units | 36 | |
- 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.
| 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.