BA in Philosophy, Public Affairs Focus
Students who wish to major in philosophy while exploring issues concerning contemporary ethics and political philosophy may be interested in the Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, Public Affairs Focus. This degree shares core material with the more traditional BA in Philosophy, but students also delve into social and political topics including wealth inequality, political correctness, business ethics and the relationship between technological progress and sustainability.
Exceptional students are encouraged to apply for departmental honors and may consider the combined BA/MA program.
Visit the GW Bulletin for a complete list of Philosophy course descriptions.
Course Requirements
The following requirements must be fulfilled:
The general requirements stated under Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, Undergraduate Programs.
Program-specific curriculum:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Recommended | ||
| PHIL 1051 | Introduction to Philosophy | |
| or PHIL 1051W | ||
| Required | ||
| PHIL 2045 | Introduction to Logic (3 credits) | |
| One course from the following (3 credits): | ||
| PHIL 2111 | History of Ancient Philosophy | |
| or PHIL 2111W | History of Ancient Philosophy | |
| PHIL 2112 | History of Modern Philosophy | |
| Two courses from the following (6 credits): | ||
| PHIL 2131 | Ethics: Theory and Applications | |
| PHIL 2132 | Social and Political Philosophy | |
| or PHIL 2132W | Social and Political Philosophy | |
| PHIL 2136 | Contemporary Issues in Ethics | |
| Four additional philosophy (PHIL) courses numbered 2000 or above (12 credits) | ||
| One of the following options: | ||
| A: Two Proseminar Courses | ||
| PHIL 4198 | Proseminar (6 credits) | |
| B: Honors Thesis option (requires departmental approval and a senior thesis) | ||
| PHIL 4198 | Proseminar (3 credits) | |
| or PHIL 4198W | Proseminar in Philosophy | |
| PHIL 4199 | Readings and Research (3 credits) | |