Philosophy (BA) in Canada at VIU Canada

Program Overview for Philosophy (BA) in Canada:

Philosophy is the critical and systematic study of the fundamental assumptions at play in the entire range of human activity. It concerns itself with explorations into the nature of reality, human knowledge, moral and scientific reasoning, art, and society.

The study of philosophy fosters thinking critically and innovatively, communicating logically, interpreting and evaluating core concepts and theories in some disciplines, and articulating well-reasoned arguments.

These competencies are vital to public discourse in a flourishing democracy and are particularly useful in such professions as law, medicine, business, and public administration. Recent studies have demonstrated that students who have completed a program in philosophy score significantly higher than all other humanities and social sciences students on standardized tests for admission to graduate and professional study.

Philosophy is a critical and systematic study of basic assumptions that work within the scope of human activity. It involves exploring the nature of reality, human knowledge, moral and scientific reasoning, art, and society. Philosophical research cultivates critical and innovative thinking, logical communication, interpretation and evaluation of interdisciplinary basic concepts and theories, and the ability to clarify rational evidence.

These abilities are essential for the prosperity of democratic public discourse, especially for law, medicine, business, and public administration. Recent studies have shown that students who complete philosophy courses score significantly higher in standardized tests for graduate and professional studies than all other humanities and social sciences students. 

The first year of the program is designed to introduce students to philosophy and help them develop analytical skills. The second-year curriculum applies these skills to historical and contemporary problems. The higher-level curriculum allows reducing part of the focus in applied ethics and political philosophy or the direction of the traditional problems of epistemology and metaphysics.

Students can include specific courses in political studies or liberal arts studies in their curriculum.

These are the international student eligibility for the Philosophy (BA) in Canada

• Graduation from high school or equivalent.
• Proof of English language proficiency
• International students who are BC high school graduates must have a minimum grade of “C” in English 12 for direct entry into an academic program.
• Official transcript of grades from high school (and post-secondary institutions where applicable).
• A minimum "C+" grade in one of Principles of Mathematics 11, Applications of Mathematics 11, Foundations of Mathematics 11, Pre-calculus 11, or equivalent. A mathematics assessment and placement examination is available for applicants without this admission requirement.

These are the domestic student eligibility for the Philosophy (BA)

Canadian citizens and those with permanent residence status in Canada are eligible for admission to University Academic programs if they meet one of the following conditions:

• graduation from a B.C. secondary school, or equivalent, with a minimum “C” grade in either English 12 or English 12 First Peoples;
• visiting student from a college or university (a “Letter of Permission” from the home institution is required);
• a transfer student from a college or university (at least 24 transferable university-level credits completed);
• English 12 with a minimum "C+" grade or equivalent.
• A minimum "C+" grade in one of Principles of Mathematics 11, Applications of Mathematics 11, Foundations of Mathematics 11, Pre-calculus 11, or equivalent. A mathematics assessment and placement examination is available for applicants without this admission requirement.

These are the test eligibilities for the Philosophy (BA) to qualify.

The international student tuition fees and costs for Philosophy (BA) in Canada.

Philosophy is about reasoning. It is about analyzing central issues and concepts, including basic assumptions, and defending positions with arguments. Students develop many important skills when studying philosophy, including the ability to:

• critical thinking,
• express thought clearly and logically,
• explain and evaluate concepts and arguments, and
• reflect carefully and deeply on important issues. 4,444 philosophy students have been able to apply their skills in various fields, including law, business, and writing. They also scored high on the graduate entrance exams (GRE, GMAT, and LSAT).

The honors course will provide students with a broader field of philosophy and further strengthen the specialty's philosophical skills. PHIL 490: Supervised honors essays will promote deeper analysis and greater involvement in philosophical issues in longer supervised essays. The honors course is especially recommended for students entering graduate school. Some graduate programs require their applicants to earn honors or equivalent qualifications. Even if they don't, honors degrees give students an edge in competing for limited spots.

Additionally, PHIL 490 is good preparation for graduate study, where students will write long course essays and dissertations. PHIL 490 enables students to explore philosophical questions in greater depth, conduct in-depth research and analysis, and accept guidance from supervisors. 

For students who have not continued their graduate studies, the honorary degree remains prominent on the curriculum, showing a high level of achievement and independent study, and perseverance. PHIL 490 A more in-depth approach can prepare students to process professional analysis reports, especially if they need to incorporate key comments or demonstrate work during the draft stage.