Philosophy Major, Bachelor of - Thompson Rivers

The Philosophy Major at Thompson Rivers University is a four-year program that explores essential questions about the universe, humanity, and knowledge. It develops critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills through a balanced curriculum covering traditional and contemporary philosophical topics. Students can pursue specialty courses and engage in experiential learning opportunities, such as research and participation in the Philosophy Club. With its flexible career options, the program prepares graduates for diverse roles in fields ranging from advocacy to media to law.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The Philosophy Major, Bachelor of Arts at Thompson Rivers University (TRU) is a four-year program designed to explore fundamental questions about the universe, humanity's place in it, the proper conduct of individual and social life, and the limits of human knowledge.

Objectives:

Develop critical thinking skills: Students will learn to analyze arguments, identify fallacies, and construct persuasive arguments of their own.
Engage with philosophical traditions: Students will explore the history of philosophy, from ancient Greece to the present day, and engage with the major thinkers and schools of thought.
Apply philosophical concepts to real-world issues: Students will learn to apply philosophical concepts to contemporary issues such as ethics, politics, and technology.
Develop communication skills: Students will learn to express complex philosophical ideas in clear and concise language, both in writing and orally.

Program Description:

The program offers a balanced curriculum that covers both traditional and contemporary philosophical topics. Students can choose from a variety of core courses and specialty courses, including:

Metaphysics: The study of the nature of reality, including questions about existence, time, space, and causality.
Epistemology: The study of knowledge, including questions about the nature of truth, justification, and the limits of human understanding.
Ethics: The study of morality, including questions about right and wrong, justice, and virtue.
Philosophy of Science: The study of the nature of scientific knowledge, including questions about the scientific method, the role of evidence, and the limits of scientific explanation.
Philosophy of Law: The study of the nature of law, including questions about the relationship between law and morality, the role of legal institutions, and the interpretation of legal texts.
Philosophy of Rock Music: An exploration of philosophical themes and concepts through the lens of rock music.
Philosophy of Sex and Love: A philosophical examination of the nature of sex and love, including questions about desire, intimacy, and relationships.

Teaching:

Faculty: TRU's philosophy faculty includes specialists in continental philosophy, epistemology and the philosophy of mind, ethics and the philosophy of humour, and environmental ethics.
Teaching Methods: The philosophy department at TRU emphasizes active learning and student engagement.
Unique Approaches: The program offers a variety of experiential learning opportunities, such as participation in the Philosophy Club, the Philosophy, History, and Politics Conference, and research or teaching assistant positions.

Careers:

Career Options: A philosophy degree can lead to a wide range of careers, including:
Activist
Author
Archivist
Blogger
Child welfare advocate
Community centre director
Diplomat
Entrepreneur
Freelance writer
Foreign service worker
Health policy advisor
Historian
Historical site coordinator
Human resources manager
Human rights advocate
International development worker
Interpreter
Journalist
Lawyer/legal aid representative
Lobbyist
Marketing specialist
Media correspondent
Museum curator
Non-profit organization director
Politician
Political strategist
Public relations representative
Public policy advisor
Publisher
Researcher
Social service worker
Speech writer
UN representative
Law School: Philosophy majors tend to do well on the LSAT and are well-prepared for the rigors of law school.
Medical School: Many philosophy graduates have gone on to medical school.
Graduate School: A philosophy degree can prepare students for graduate study in a variety of fields.

Other:

Experiential Learning: TRU offers a variety of experiential learning opportunities for philosophy students, including:
Philosophy Club:
Philosophy, History, and Politics Conference: An annual conference that brings together students and faculty from across Canada to present and discuss their research.
Research and Teaching Assistant Positions: Students can work with faculty on research projects or assist with teaching.
Student Testimonials: The program has received positive feedback from students, who appreciate the welcoming environment, the engaging teaching style of the faculty, and the opportunities for experiential learning.