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Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy (Optional Co-op)
Waterloo
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy program at the University of Waterloo offers students a comprehensive exploration of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, and society. Through rigorous analysis, critical thinking, and debate, students develop a deeper understanding of philosophical concepts and their applications in various contexts. With an optional co-op component, students have the opportunity to gain practical experience in fields such as law, business, technology, education, and public policy, enhancing their critical thinking skills and preparing them for a wide range of career paths.The Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy program at the University of Waterloo offers students a rigorous intellectual exploration of philosophical ideas, theories, and methods, combined with practical experience through optional co-op work terms. Graduates emerge with strong critical thinking skills, analytical abilities, and a deep appreciation for the complexities of ethical, metaphysical, and epistemological questions. With their versatile skill set and interdisciplinary perspective, graduates are prepared for diverse career paths in fields such as law, business, technology, education, public policy, and beyond.
Curriculum:
1. Core Areas of Study: The program covers core areas of philosophy, including metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, logic, political philosophy, and the history of philosophy. Students engage with seminal texts and contemporary debates, exploring questions about the nature of reality, the limits of human knowledge, the foundations of morality, and the principles of social justice.
2. Critical Thinking and Argumentation: Students develop critical thinking skills and argumentative techniques, learning to evaluate and construct reasoned arguments, identify logical fallacies, and engage in philosophical debate. They analyze complex philosophical texts, assess competing viewpoints, and articulate their own ideas with clarity and precision.
3. Ethics and Values: The program examines ethical theories and moral dilemmas, encouraging students to reflect on questions of right and wrong, virtue and vice, justice and equality. Students explore normative ethics, metaethics, applied ethics, and ethical issues in areas such as bioethics, environmental ethics, business ethics, and social justice.
4. Metaphysics and Epistemology: Students explore metaphysical questions about the nature of reality, existence, identity, time, space, causality, and free will. They also investigate epistemological questions about the nature and limits of human knowledge, the justification of beliefs, skepticism, and the scientific method.
5. Logic and Analytical Skills: The program emphasizes logical reasoning and analytical skills, introducing students to formal logic, symbolic notation, deductive and inductive reasoning, and probability theory. Students learn to analyze arguments, detect fallacies, and construct valid proofs, enhancing their ability to think critically and solve problems effectively.
6. History of Philosophy: Students study the history of philosophy, tracing the development of philosophical ideas from ancient Greece to the present day. They explore the works of major philosophers such as Plato, Aristotle, Descartes, Kant, Nietzsche, and contemporary thinkers, understanding how philosophical thought has evolved over time and influenced diverse intellectual traditions.
7. Applied Philosophy: The program explores the practical applications of philosophy in various fields and professions. Students examine how philosophical concepts and methods can inform ethical decision-making, public policy, law, education, healthcare, technology, and business practices, preparing them to address ethical challenges and moral dilemmas in their chosen careers.
8. Optional Co-op Experience: The optional co-operative education component allows students to gain practical work experience through paid co-op work terms. Co-op placements may include opportunities in law firms, consulting firms, government agencies, non-profit organizations, technology companies, or educational institutions, where students can apply their philosophical training to real-world problems and contexts.
Location
Waterloo
Score
IELTS: 6.5
Tuition Fee
CAD 45000
Application Fees : CAD$ 251
Undergraduate Entry Requirements:
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Academic Achievement: International students applying for undergraduate programs at the University of Waterloo are expected to have a minimum academic achievement of 80% or above in their secondary school studies.
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English Language Proficiency: The accepted English language tests and their minimum score requirements are as follows:
- IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 with no band less than 6.5 in writing, 6.0 in reading, 6.0 in listening, and 6.5 in speaking.
- TOEFL: Minimum score of 90 on the Internet-based Test (iBT).
- PTE: Minimum score of 63.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 120.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission to the University of Waterloo. The university receives a large number of applications and admission decisions are based on a holistic assessment of various factors, including academic performance, test scores, personal statements, and letters of recommendation.
The University of Waterloo offers several scholarships and financial aid options to support international students in their academic journey. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and contributions to the community.
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International Master's Award of Excellence: This scholarship is available to international students entering a research-based master's program. It provides funding of up to $2,500 per term for a maximum of five terms.
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Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS): The OGS is a merit-based scholarship available to domestic and international students pursuing a graduate degree at the University of Waterloo. The scholarship provides funding of up to $15,000 per year for a maximum of two or three years, depending on the program.
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President's Scholarship of Distinction: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to top international students entering an undergraduate program at the University of Waterloo. The scholarship covers full tuition for up to four years of study.
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International Student Entrance Scholarships: These scholarships are available to high-achieving international students applying for undergraduate programs. The value of the scholarships varies and is renewable for up to four years, based on academic performance.
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Faculty-specific Scholarships: Various faculties at the University of Waterloo offer scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and involvement in extracurricular activities within the respective faculty.
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Donor-funded Scholarships: The university receives generous contributions from donors, which are used to establish scholarships for international students. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria and application processes.
It is important to note that the availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines for scholarships may vary. To apply for scholarships, international students are typically required to submit an application for admission to the university. Some scholarships may have additional application requirements, such as essays or reference letters. It is important to care.
Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy program at the University of Waterloo possess a unique skill set that is highly valued across various industries and professions. With their strong critical thinking abilities, analytical skills, and ethical reasoning, philosophy graduates are well-equipped to pursue diverse career paths. The Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy program at the University of Waterloo prepares graduates for diverse career paths in law, business, education, government, non-profit organizations, journalism, healthcare, technology, academia, and beyond. With their strong critical thinking skills, analytical abilities, and ethical reasoning, philosophy graduates emerge as versatile professionals ready to tackle complex challenges, engage in meaningful work, and make positive contributions to society.
1. Law: Many philosophy graduates pursue careers in law. Their analytical skills, ability to construct sound arguments, and ethical reasoning make them well-suited for legal professions. Graduates may work as lawyers, legal advisors, paralegals, or legal researchers in law firms, government agencies, non-profit organizations, or corporate legal departments.
2. Business and Management: Philosophy graduates are valued in the business world for their critical thinking abilities, problem-solving skills, and ethical judgment. They may work in various roles such as management consultants, business analysts, project managers, or corporate trainers, helping organizations navigate complex ethical dilemmas, develop strategic plans, and make informed decisions.
3. Education: Philosophy graduates often pursue careers in education. They may work as teachers, professors, or educational consultants in schools, colleges, universities, or educational organizations. They can teach philosophy courses, critical thinking seminars, ethics classes, or humanities courses, inspiring students to engage in deep philosophical inquiry and intellectual exploration.
4. Government and Public Policy: Philosophy graduates may work in government agencies, policy research institutes, or non-profit organizations, contributing to policy analysis, program evaluation, or public advocacy efforts. They may work as policy analysts, researchers, or advisors, helping to develop and implement policies that promote ethical governance, social justice, and human rights.
5. Non-Profit and Advocacy Organizations: Philosophy graduates are often drawn to careers in non-profit organizations and advocacy groups. They may work on issues such as human rights, social justice, environmental sustainability, or global peacebuilding. They may work as advocates, activists, program coordinators, or communications specialists, raising awareness, mobilizing support, and advocating for positive social change.
6. Journalism and Media: Philosophy graduates with strong writing and communication skills may pursue careers in journalism, media, or communications. They may work as journalists, editors, or content creators for newspapers, magazines, online platforms, or broadcasting networks, covering philosophical topics, ethical debates, or social issues.
7. Healthcare and Bioethics: Philosophy graduates may work in healthcare settings, addressing ethical issues in healthcare delivery, medical research, and bioethics. They may work as ethics consultants, patient advocates, or research ethics board members, providing guidance on informed consent, end-of-life care, reproductive rights, and other bioethical dilemmas.
8. Technology and Ethics: Philosophy graduates may work in the technology sector, addressing ethical considerations in the development and deployment of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, or digital privacy. They may work as ethicists, policy advisors, or corporate social responsibility officers, ensuring that technology is developed and used in ways that align with ethical principles and societal values.
9. Academia and Research: Some philosophy graduates pursue further education and research in philosophy or related fields. They may pursue graduate studies in philosophy, law, ethics, political science, or interdisciplinary programs. With advanced degrees, they can pursue careers as university professors, researchers, or scholars, contributing to the academic community through teaching, research, and publication.
