Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Philosophy

Vancouver Island University

VIU’s Bachelor of Arts, Major in Philosophy program focuses on developing analytical and critical thinking skills while exploring historical and modern philosophical concepts.A Philosophy degree helps students understand the significance of the growing body of facts available, and the wisdom to deal with them at the highest human level. In VIU’s Philosophy program, small class sizes allow for in-depth discussions, while students can apply their learning and gain work experience in a new internship program.Bachelor of Philosophy graduates leave the program with clear writing, abstract reasoning, and problem-solving skills that ease them into a variety of careers and further academic study. The Philosophy Honours (BA) ProgramPhilosophy is all about reasoning. It’s about analyzing core issues and concepts, even basic assumptions, defending a position with arguments. Students develop many important skills in studying philosophy, including an ability:to think critically,to express ideas clearly and logically,to interpret and evaluate concepts and arguments, andto reflect carefully and deeply on important issues.Philosophy majors have been able to use their skills in various fields, including law, business, and writing. They also achieve high scores on graduate entrance exams (GRE, GMAT, and LSAT).An honours program will offer students more breadth in the field of philosophy, and will further strengthen the philosophical skills that the major already promotes. PHIL 490: Supervised Honours Thesis will tend to foster deeper analysis and greater engagement with a philosophical question in a longer, supervised paper.The honours program is especially recommended for students going on to graduate school. Some graduate programs require an honours or equivalent of their applicants. Even where they do not, an honours designation gives students an edge in competing for limited spots. Furthermore, PHIL 490 is good preparation for graduate studies where students will write long course papers and theses. PHIL 490 gets students to explore a philosophical question in more depth, delving more into the research and analysis, and taking direction from a supervisor.For students not going on to graduate studies, the honours designation still stands out on a resume, demonstrating high levels of achievement, as well as independent study and perseverance. The more in-depth approach of PHIL 490 can prepare students for tackling professional analytic reports, especially where they need to incorporate critical feedback or present work in draft stages.

Faculty of Arts and Humanities