General Philosophy
The General Philosophy Bachelor of Arts program at Pennsylvania University is a four-year, full-time undergraduate program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of philosophical thought, critical reasoning, and ethical inquiry. The curriculum integrates ethics, logic, metaphysics, epistemology, and philosophical analysis, enabling students to explore fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, morality, and society. Students engage in seminars, textual analysis, and research projects, developing critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills necessary for professional, academic, and intellectual pursuits.
Throughout the program, students participate in discussions, workshops, and applied research guided by faculty experts in philosophy, ethics, and logic. The program emphasizes analytical reasoning, rigorous argumentation, and interdisciplinary exploration, preparing graduates to examine complex ideas, construct coherent arguments, and apply philosophical principles in diverse contexts. Students leave the program with critical reasoning, analytical skills, ethical awareness, and research competence, fully prepared for careers or advanced study in philosophy, law, education, public policy, or related fields.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: General Philosophy
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Philosophy
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Philosophy
- Introduction to Philosophy and Critical Thinking
- Logic and Analytical Reasoning
- Ethics and Moral Philosophy
- History of Western Philosophy
Year 2 – Intermediate Study in Philosophical Thought
- Epistemology and Metaphysics
- Political and Social Philosophy
- Applied Research Projects in Philosophy
- Electives: Philosophy of Science, Philosophy of Mind, or Comparative Philosophy
Year 3 – Advanced Analysis and Specialization
- Contemporary Philosophical Debates
- Seminar in Ethical Theory and Application
- Applied Research and Philosophical Inquiry
- Electives: Aesthetics, Philosophy of Law, or Existential Philosophy
Year 4 – Capstone and Professional Integration
- Senior Thesis or Independent Research Project
- Seminar in Advanced Philosophical Topics
- Professional Portfolio Development
- Internship or Applied Project in Education, Research, or Policy Organizations
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the General Philosophy program are prepared for careers in law, education, public policy, ethics consulting, research, and nonprofit organizations. Alumni may work as philosophers, educators, policy analysts, ethical advisors, or pursue graduate studies in philosophy, law, political science, or public administration. The program equips graduates to analyze complex issues, construct reasoned arguments, and apply critical thinking in professional and academic contexts. With strong analytical, ethical, and research skills, graduates are highly competitive in environments emphasizing intellectual rigor, ethical reasoning, and applied problem-solving.
Why Choose This Program
This program is distinguished by its integration of critical thinking, ethical analysis, philosophical inquiry, and applied research within a four-year curriculum. Students benefit from mentorship, discussion-based learning, and hands-on projects that connect theoretical knowledge with practical applications in education, law, and public policy. The curriculum emphasizes analytical reasoning, interdisciplinary problem-solving, and rigorous argumentation, preparing graduates to evaluate complex ideas, develop coherent solutions, and contribute meaningfully to professional and academic initiatives. For students passionate about philosophy, ethics, and developing advanced reasoning skills, this program offers a rigorous, immersive, and career-focused pathway to professional and academic success.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
