American University United States

Philosophy (BA)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

Embark on a transformative intellectual journey with the Philosophy (BA) at American University, a Bachelor's Degree designed for those eager to explore fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language. This undergraduate program cultivates critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and persuasive communication, equipping you to dissect complex arguments and articulate your own perspectives with clarity and precision. You will engage with diverse philosophical traditions, from Western and Asian thought to contemporary issues in ethics, justice, and ecological concerns, preparing you for a world that increasingly demands nuanced understanding and reasoned debate.

This full-time, on-campus program unfolds over four years, providing a structured yet flexible path through foundational concepts, specialized concentrations in areas like Ethics in Society or Global Philosophy and Culture, and a capstone experience. You will delve into subjects such as formal logic, moral philosophy, and political theory, with opportunities to apply your learning through an internship in philosophy or a senior seminar focused on the practice of philosophical inquiry. Upon graduation, you will possess a versatile skill set, enabling you to pursue advanced studies or enter diverse professional fields that value rigorous analytical and ethical reasoning.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The Philosophy BA program offers a comprehensive exploration of philosophical thought across various traditions and themes. Students will engage with foundational concepts in Western and Asian philosophy, delve into ethical theories and their societal applications, and examine global philosophical and cultural perspectives. The curriculum also includes a focus on justice and power, culminating in a capstone experience and opportunities for elective study.

1 Foundation (9 credit hours)

Introduction to Western Philosophy and Culture
Do the Right Thing
Introduction to Formal Logic
Introduction to Asian Philosophy
Theories of Democracy
Ecological Justice: Ethics in a More-Than-Human World

2 Concentration (15 credit hours)

3 Ethics in Society

Do the Right Thing
Moral Philosophy
Ecological Justice: Ethics in a More-Than-Human World
Ethics in the Professions
Bioethics
Practicum in Ethics
Seminar on Ethical Theory
Topics in Modern Moral Problems
Selected Topics in Philosophy
Selected Topics: Non-Recurring (1-6)
Religious Ethics

4 Global Philosophy and Culture

Introduction to Western Philosophy and Culture
Introduction to Asian Philosophy
Ancient Greek Philosophy
Early Modern European Philosophy
Nineteenth Century European Philosophy
Twentieth Century European Political Philosophy
Modern European Movements
Recent and Contemporary Philosophers
Studies in Asian Philosophy
American Philosophy
Chinese Philosophy
Buddhist Philosophy
Latin American Philosophy
Selected Topics in Philosophy
Selected Topics: Non-Recurring (1-6)
The Religious Heritage of the West
The Religious Heritage of Asia
Stories of South Asia
Islam
Topics in Jewish Religion
Hinduism

5 Justice and Power

Moral Philosophy
Theories of Democracy
Feminist Philosophy
Philosophy of Race
Chinese Philosophy
Buddhist Philosophy
Existentialism
Topics in Modern Moral Problems
Selected Topics in Philosophy
Selected Topics: Non-Recurring (1-6)
Religion without Borders
Religion and Violence
Religion and Black Bodies of Resistance

6 Capstone (3 credit hours)

Senior Seminar: Doing Philosophy-Method and Stakes
Internship in Philosophy

7 Electives (12 credit hours)

Introduction to Western Philosophy and Culture
Do the Right Thing
Introduction to Formal Logic
Introduction to Asian Philosophy
Moral Philosophy
Theories of Democracy
Ecological Justice: Ethics in a More-Than-Human World
Ethics in the Professions
Bioethics
Practicum in Ethics
Internship in Philosophy
Ancient Greek Philosophy
Early Modern European Philosophy
Nineteenth Century European Philosophy
Twentieth Century European Political Philosophy
Modern European Movements
Recent and Contemporary Philosophers
Studies in Asian Philosophy
American Philosophy
Feminist Philosophy
Philosophy of Race
Chinese Philosophy
Buddhist Philosophy
Seminar on Ethical Theory
Latin American Philosophy
Existentialism
Topics in Modern Moral Problems
Metaphysics
Global Philosophy of Religion
Global Philosophy of Religion
Selected Topics in Philosophy
Selected Topics: Non-Recurring (1-6)
The Religious Heritage of the West
Religion without Borders
The Religious Heritage of Asia
Religious Ethics
The What, Where, and Why of Art
Stories of South Asia
Islam
Topics in Jewish Religion
Hinduism
Religion and Violence
Religion and Black Bodies of Resistance

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 60,270.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 60,270.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 60,270.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 60,270.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 241,080.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,000.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,600.00 - USD 5,400.00
Transport USD 840.00 - USD 1,440.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,040.00
Estimated Total USD 5,640.00 - USD 8,880.00

Living cost estimates are based on Washington Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

91%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesAdult & Continuing EducationCorporate Training & DevelopmentEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEdTech & E-LearningEducation Policy & AdministrationEducational Support ServicesHigher Education & UniversitiesSecondary & High School EducationSpecial & Inclusive Education

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Smithsonian Institution

Why Study Philosophy (BA) at American University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

American University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at American University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Philosophy (BA) at American University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. Work on campus does not require separate approvals.

What English language score do I need for this course?

International students must meet specific English language requirements. Acceptable tests include Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE, each with designated score criteria.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as ethicists, policy analysts, educators, philosophers, or writers.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Philosophy (BA) program encourages critical thinking and analytical reasoning. You'll explore subjects like moral philosophy and political theory while engaging with diverse philosophical traditions.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Philosophy (BA) program at American University offers two intake options: January and August. You can choose to start your studies during either of these months.
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