Philosophy Honours (BA) Vancouver Island University

Program Description

Philosophy is all about reasoning. It’s about analyzing core issues and concepts, even basic assumptions, defending a position with arguments. Students develop many important skills in studying philosophy, including an ability: to think critically, to express ideas clearly and logically, to interpret and evaluate concepts and arguments, and to reflect carefully and deeply on important issues. Philosophy majors have been able to use their skills in various fields, including law, business, and writing. They also achieve high scores on graduate entrance exams (GRE, GMAT, and LSAT). An honours program will offer students more breadth in the field of philosophy, and will further strengthen the philosophical skills that the major already promotes. PHIL 490: Supervised Honours Thesis will tend to foster deeper analysis and greater engagement with a philosophical question in a longer, supervised paper. The honours program is especially recommended for students going on to graduate school. Some graduate programs require an honours or equivalent of their applicants. Even where they do not, an honours designation gives students an edge in competing for limited spots. Furthermore, PHIL 490 is good preparation for graduate studies where students will write long course papers and theses. PHIL 490 gets students to explore a philosophical question in more depth, delving more into the research and analysis, and taking direction from a supervisor. For students not going on to graduate studies, the honours designation still stands out on a resume, demonstrating high levels of achievement, as well as independent study and perseverance. The more in-depth approach of PHIL 490 can prepare students for tackling professional analytic reports, especially where they need to incorporate critical feedback or present work in draft stages.

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