Undergraduate Studies

Honors in Philosophy

students studying together on the Quad

Designed for the exceptional student, regardless of whether the student intends to do graduate work in philosophy, this program offers the opportunity to pursue a philosophical topic further than the seminar format permits. It also provides recognition for having done a greater proportion of one’s classes at the advanced level and for having sustained outstanding achievement in all courses.

Requirements

Those who graduate with honors in philosophy must meet the following requirements:

  • Complete 36 hours in philosophy
  • Complete at least 18 of those hours at the 300 or 400 level
  • Achieve a grade point average of at least 3.5 in all courses in philosophy and at least 3.3 overall
  • Write and be examined on a substantial philosophical essay

The senior essay can be either a new project or the significant revision and further development of a paper submitted for a seminar. In either case, the topic for the senior essay is to be approved by a member of the faculty, who will be available to review drafts in progress. The senior essay is normally to be completed by December 1 of the student’s senior year. Upon completion of the final draft, a committee of the faculty will examine the student orally on it. Students also enrolled in the University Honors College can count their senior essays in philosophy as completing the honors thesis in that college.

Learn more about the honors program, including course requirements, in the UA Undergraduate Catalog.

How to Apply

Students may enroll in honors in philosophy by informing the department’s undergraduate advisor, Dr. Torin Alter, that they wish to do so. They may also be invited to enroll by members of the department’s faculty.