Philosophy (BA)

Philosophers reflect on some of the world’s most serious problems: the basis of ethical action, human rights, global justice or our relationship with the environment. Or they ask questions about what the mind, knowledge, science, identity, gender and sexuality really are. Whatever the issue, philosophers learn how to analyze ideas and arguments, and reason well. They also make discoveries about the history of ideas and how this shapes the way we think about contemporary life.

Studying philosophy will open your eyes to these deep ideas and questions, teach you to analyze them with philosophical insight and rigour, to read, write and reason well, and build skills for speech and debate. As you reflect on the assumptions that inform our social, political, and scientific practices, you will think about, and relate to, the political, social and natural world in an entirely new way.

An undergraduate degree in philosophy is the stepping stone to graduate studies or a wide variety of careers that require critical thinking, careful writing, or superior communication skills.

A Bachelor of Arts degree takes a minimum of three or four years (90–120 credits) of full-time study, depending on your academic background.

Program options

• Honours in Philosophy (60 credits)*
• Major in Philosophy (36 credits)
• Minor in Philosophy (24 credits)

*Honours is a highly concentrated program, ideal for students planning to continue to graduate studies. If you are interested in Honours, speak with your program advisor in your first year of study at Concordia. Students applying to the University are able to apply to the major.

Courses

Minimum cut-off averages and course requirements

• Quebec CEGEP: DEC
  • Additional information for CEGEP applicants
• High School: C+
  • ACT or SAT is NOT required 
  • Canadian curricula course requirements
  • Accepted international qualifications
• International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma: 26
• Baccalauréat français: 11
• British system of education (GCE):
  • A-levels: At least two A-level exams CD or
  • AS-levels: At least 4 AS-level exams with equivalent results or
  • BTEC: Level 3 Diploma or Extended Diploma in a related subject area with equivalent results
  • Additional information for British System of Education (GCE) applicants
• University Transfers (internal/external): C

Minimum cut-off averages should be used as indicators. The cut-off data may change depending on the applicant pool. Applicants who meet the stated minimum requirements are not guaranteed admission to these programs.

Many Philosophy graduates pursue graduate studies. Others establish careers in teaching, law, public service and administration, publishing, journalism, editing, library science, research, medicine or business administration.