Bachelor of Arts (Honours) - Philosophy ( Major )

The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Philosophy program at Queen's University offers students a rigorous exploration of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, and society. Philosophy courses delve into critical thinking, logic, metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, political philosophy, and the history of philosophical thought. Through seminars, debates, and independent research projects, students develop analytical skills, argumentation abilities, and a deeper understanding of complex philosophical concepts.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Philosophy program at Queen's University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive grounding in philosophical theory and practice. Core courses cover topics such as logic, ethics, metaphysics, epistemology, and the history of philosophy from ancient to contemporary thinkers. Students also have the opportunity to explore specialized areas of interest through elective courses, including philosophy of mind, philosophy of science, moral philosophy, political philosophy, and existentialism.

Research Focus: Research is a central focus of the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Philosophy program at Queen's University. Faculty members within the Philosophy department are engaged in research projects spanning various philosophical areas, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the field. Undergraduate students have the opportunity to participate in research initiatives, independent studies, and collaborative projects, gaining valuable research skills and exploring philosophical questions in depth.

Industry Engagement: The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Philosophy program at Queen's University emphasizes industry engagement and the practical applications of philosophical knowledge and skills. Philosophy graduates possess strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities that are highly valued in a wide range of industries and professions. Career paths for philosophy majors may include law, academia, public policy, journalism, business, technology, and non-profit organizations. Industry partnerships, internships, and networking events provide students with insights into career pathways and opportunities in various fields.

Global Perspective: Queen's University promotes a global perspective within its Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Philosophy program, recognizing the universal relevance of philosophical inquiry and the diversity of philosophical traditions worldwide. Philosophy courses explore philosophical ideas from different cultural, historical, and intellectual contexts, fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. Study abroad programs, international collaborations, and multicultural experiences offer students the opportunity to engage with philosophical perspectives from around the globe and develop a broader worldview.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS for International Students:

Application Fees: 261

Academic Requirements: International students should have a minimum overall average of 75% or equivalent in their previous academic studies. This percentage may vary depending on the specific program and competition.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: An overall band score of 6.5, with no individual band score less than 6.
• TOEFL: A minimum score of 88 on the internet-based test (iBT).
• PTE: A minimum score of 60 on the Pearson Test of English.
• DET: A minimum score of 110 on the Duolingo English Test.

Queen's University in Canada offers a range of scholarships and financial aid options to support international students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, promote diversity, and provide assistance to students with financial need. 

International Admission Scholarships: Queen's University offers automatic scholarships to international students who are admitted to undergraduate programs. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement and vary in value. Eligibility and specific scholarship amounts are determined by the student's admission average or equivalent academic qualifications.

Major Admission Awards: Queen's University also offers prestigious scholarships to exceptional international students entering their first year of undergraduate studies. These awards are highly competitive and recognize academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement. Eligible students are automatically considered for these scholarships during the admissions process.

In-Course Scholarships: Queen's University provides scholarships to current undergraduate international students who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance during their studies. These scholarships are typically awarded based on specific criteria, such as GPA or departmental recommendations.

External Scholarships: Queen's University encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, such as government scholarships, international exchange programs, and sponsorships from their home countries. The university's website provides information and resources to assist students in finding external scholarship opportunities.

It is important to note that the availability, eligibility criteria, and application processes for scholarships may vary. Additionally, it is recommended to check specific eligibility requirements and deadlines for each scholarship, as they may vary depending on the scholarship program and level of study.

Graduating with a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Philosophy from Queen's University opens up a diverse array of career pathways across various industries, where critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and ethical decision-making skills are highly valued.

Law: Many philosophy graduates pursue careers in law. The analytical and argumentative skills honed during a philosophy degree are highly applicable to legal practice. Graduates may work as lawyers, legal consultants, or legal researchers, specializing in areas such as corporate law, human rights law, or intellectual property law.

Academia: Some graduates choose to pursue careers in academia. With further education and advanced degrees, they can become university professors or researchers in philosophy departments. They may teach courses, conduct research, and publish academic papers on philosophical topics.

Public Policy and Government: Philosophy graduates may work in public policy and government roles, contributing their analytical skills and ethical perspectives to policy development, analysis, and implementation. They may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or think tanks, addressing issues such as ethics, social justice, and human rights.

Business and Consulting: Philosophy graduates are sought after in the business world for their critical thinking abilities and ethical reasoning skills. They may work in consulting firms, advising companies on ethical dilemmas, corporate social responsibility, and strategic decision-making. They may also pursue roles in management, marketing, or human resources.

Journalism and Publishing: Philosophy graduates often excel in journalism and publishing due to their strong writing and analytical skills. They may work as journalists, columnists, or editors, covering topics such as ethics, politics, and culture. They may also work in publishing houses, editing books or academic journals on philosophical subjects.

Non-Profit and Advocacy Organizations: Many philosophy graduates choose to work for non-profit organizations or advocacy groups, where they can apply their ethical reasoning skills to address social issues and promote positive change. They may work in roles such as community organizers, policy analysts, or campaign coordinators.

Technology and Artificial Intelligence Ethics: With the rise of technology and artificial intelligence, there is a growing demand for professionals with expertise in ethics and technology. Philosophy graduates can work in tech companies or research institutions, addressing ethical challenges related to privacy, data security, and algorithmic bias.

Education and Teaching: Philosophy graduates may pursue careers in education and teaching, working as high school teachers, college instructors, or educational consultants. They can teach philosophy courses, critical thinking seminars, or ethics classes, inspiring students to think critically and engage with philosophical ideas.