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Philosophy

About the major

Philosophy cultivates the skilful use of critical thinking and intellectual perception that is crucial for adapting to fast-changing social, political and academic environments. A major in philosophy will train you to think precisely, deliberate carefully, and communicate ideas in clear and persuasive ways.

Philosophical questions are often the most intrinsically meaningful to us: “How am I to live?”, “What do I know and how do I know these things?”, “Are my actions genuinely free?”. Philosophy also specialises in developing skills that are fundamental to success in other academic disciplines and in the workplace, such as the ability to identify the essential points of a position, policy or practice; the ability to clarify underlying issues in a debate; precision of thought and expression; clarity and rigor in the assessment of arguments and the ability to make rationally persuasive cases.

Students who major in philosophy learn to engage critically with a wide variety of texts, both historical and contemporary. They are able to identify and formulate philosophical problems and assess proposed answers to them. Philosophy majors become adept at discerning and formulating conceptual distinctions and are able to wield them usefully, both in their study of philosophy and in their wider intellectual engagements.

Students who major in philosophy may also expect to acquire intellectual virtues. They learn sensitivity in interpretation and cultural competence through the study of texts and ideas from a variety of time periods and philosophical traditions. They learn intellectual honesty and fairness by evaluating arguments carefully, and they learn to discuss matters of the highest importance without recourse to insult or susceptibility to take offense.

Requirements for completion

The Philosophy major and minor requirements are listed in the Philosophy unit of study table.

Advanced coursework

Requirements and units of study for advanced coursework can be found on the advanced coursework units of study page.

Honours

The honours program in philosophy gives students an opportunity to refine their thinking to a very high degree. It is at once a capstone to the training provided in first, second and third year units and a preparation for further study.

Students who take honours in philosophy at the University of Sydney study in one of the world's leading philosophy disciplines. They work closely with dedicated teachers and active researchers whose interests span a wide variety of fields and methodological approaches.

The honours program in philosophy comprises four coursework units and a thesis of 12,000–15,000 words. Students are also required to give a 20-minute presentation on their thesis topic at one of two Honours Conferences held each year.

In coursework units, students are introduced to current research specialisation and practice and are given the opportunity to build on their existing knowledge.

The thesis is an extended piece of research on an approved topic of the student's choosing, and is written under the individual supervision of a member of staff. The thesis gives students the experience of formulating and conducting a substantial piece of independent research, working closely with a supervisor who helps to bring their reflections and research into sharper focus.

Honours admission requirements

Admission to honours is via the Bachelor of Advanced Studies or Bachelor of Arts (Honours) and requires the completion of a major in Philosophy with an average of 70% or above.

Prior to commencing honours, you will need to ensure you have completed all other requirements of the Bachelor of Arts or other bachelor degree, including Open Learning Environment (OLE) units and, where undertaking the Bachelor of Advanced Studies, a second major.

Requirements and units of study for honours can be found on the Philosophy honours units of study page.

Contacts and further information

More information and current contact details for key academic coordinators may be found on the Discipline of Philosophy website.

The Discipline of Philosophy is administered by the School of Humanities.