Philosophy

The Department of Philosophy at Tel Aviv University offers a comprehensive undergraduate and graduate program designed to provide students with a profound understanding of fundamental philosophical questions and the tools to analyze complex ideas critically. Our curriculum covers a wide range of philosophical disciplines, including metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, political philosophy, philosophy of mind, and philosophy of language. Students are encouraged to explore the historical development of philosophical thought from ancient to contemporary times, engaging with the works of influential philosophers across different eras and schools of thought.

The program emphasizes rigorous analytical skills, fostering the ability to engage with challenging texts, construct well-founded arguments, and articulate ideas clearly and convincingly. Throughout their studies, students participate in seminars, lectures, and discussion groups that promote active learning and intellectual challenge. In addition to traditional philosophical subjects, the curriculum integrates interdisciplinary approaches, linking philosophy with fields such as cognitive science, logic, and humanities, to provide a well-rounded academic experience.

Our faculty comprises leading scholars dedicated to research and teaching excellence, providing students with mentorship and opportunities for involvement in cutting-edge philosophical research. The department also encourages students to develop their own philosophical interests through independent projects and thesis work. Graduates from our program find careers in academia, education, public policy, and various sectors requiring critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and ethical judgment. The Department of Philosophy at Tel Aviv University is committed to nurturing thoughtful, inquisitive thinkers prepared to address complex questions in both academic and real-world contexts, fostering a vibrant intellectual community where ideas flourish.

• Introduction to Classical Greek Philosophy  OR What is Metaphysics 
• Introduction to Modern Philosophy (Descartes, Spinoza, Leibniz, Kant) (Not offered in 2014-15)
• Guided Reading in Philosophical Texts
• Philosophy and the Arts
• What is Metaphysics?
• 3 Elective courses
• Five electives
• Seminar

Requirements

• Online application
• Official high school diploma and transcript. Applicants in their final year of high school may submit a partial transcript. Their admission process will be complete once the final transcript and diploma are received. 
• Results of the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) or American College Test (ACT). These are only required for applicants graduating from a U.S. high school system, whether in the U.S. or abroad. TAU's SAT code is 0810, and our ACT code is 5517.  Applicants who attended non-U.S. high schools should submit the results of analogous nationally administered tests.
• Two letters of recommendation from principal, teacher, guidance counselor, or others who are able to comment on the applicant’s academic abilities. Please ask your referees to submit their evaluations via email or through our online form.
• One personal essay (300-500 words)
• TOEFL or equivalent proof of English language proficiency - This is only required of graduates of high schools in which English was not the primary language of instruction. TAU's TOEFL code is 7704.
• A mandatory Health Declaration signed by the applicant and an additional witness. 
• A signed medical form with a physician's approval. 

The Philosophy program at Tel Aviv University is primarily financed through a combination of government funding, university resources, and tuition fees paid by students. Israeli residents benefit from subsidized tuition rates, which are determined annually by the Israeli Ministry of Education and the Council for Higher Education. These subsidies aim to promote accessible higher education and support a broad student body. Non-resident students are required to pay full tuition fees, which vary depending on their program and residency status. Tel Aviv University also offers various scholarships and financial aid options to assist students with the costs associated with their studies. These scholarships may be merit-based, need-based, or designed to support specific groups such as international students or students from underrepresented communities.

Funding for the Philosophy program also includes research grants and support from government agencies committed to advancing humanities studies. Faculty members may apply for research funding from national and international bodies, which can indirectly benefit students by enhancing the academic environment and providing resources for seminars, conferences, and research projects. The university's endowments and donations from alumni and benefactors contribute additional financial support, some of which is allocated specifically to the Humanities faculties or to improve research and teaching infrastructure for Philosophy students.

Additionally, the university promotes part-time employment opportunities, internships, and research assistant positions for students, enabling them to fund their studies while gaining practical experience. The combination of these funding sources ensures the ongoing operation and development of the Philosophy program, providing students with access to high-quality education despite variable economic conditions. Educational financing is continually adjusted to reflect government policies and economic factors, ensuring the sustainability and competitiveness of the program at Tel Aviv University.

Accommodation in dormitories

• $4,800 for the standard 8-month academic year
• $3,000 for the spring semester. 

Students who pursue courses of a longer duration (such as English Literature courses or courses taught in Hebrew) will be charged additional fees for their extended stay in the dorms.

Important notes

• A non-refundable $100 application fee is not included above.
• Accepted students will be asked to pay a confirmation fee to guarantee their spot in the program.
• Trips, Student Activities, Facility Fees and Health Insurance are all included in the tuition fees quoted above. 
• Study of the Hebrew language (Ulpan) is highly recommended and involves an additional fee.
• There is a replacement charge of $10 for lost student ID card, medical insurance card, or room keys.

Tuition includes excursions, activities, facility fees, and health insurance.