Philosophy

Description: The Philosophy program at Columbia University offers students the opportunity to explore fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, reason, and reality through rigorous academic study and critical analysis. Founded on a rich tradition of philosophical inquiry, the program emphasizes both the historical development of philosophical ideas and contemporary issues across various subfields, including metaphysics, epistemology, logic, ethics, political philosophy, and philosophy of mind. Students engage with primary texts from renowned philosophers spanning ancient to modern times, fostering analytical skills and fostering clarity in complex reasoning. The curriculum combines core courses with specialized seminars, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests and career goals. The faculty comprises distinguished scholars dedicated to mentoring and guiding students through their philosophical pursuits. Through coursework, independent research, and participation in colloquia and conferences, students develop the ability to think critically, argue convincingly, and write clearly about profound questions that have shaped human thought for centuries. The program also encourages interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from science, literature, arts, and social sciences to enrich philosophical understanding. Graduates from Columbia’s Philosophy program are well-prepared for careers in academia, law, public policy, education, journalism, and other fields that require high-level critical thinking and analytical skills. The vibrant intellectual community at Columbia provides numerous opportunities for collaborative projects, research funding, and engagement with global philosophical debates. Whether students are interested in exploring the history of philosophy or engaging with cutting-edge philosophical problems, Columbia’s program offers a comprehensive and stimulating environment to pursue their intellectual passions and develop as thoughtful, analytical individuals.

Students planning to major in philosophy are advised to begin with PHIL UN1010. Beginning students are especially encouraged to take 2000-level courses, both in the history of philosophy and in systematic philosophy. These courses are typically less specialized and less narrowly focused than higher-numbered ones. More advanced students are encouraged to take 3000-level courses. The department requires that all majors take at least one seminar (PHIL UN3912).

Courses:

At least 30 points in philosophy, chosen from courses prefixed with UN, GU, or GR, including: 

• PHIL UN2101 or another course in the history of ancient or medieval philosophy (e.g. PHIL UN3131)
• PHIL UN2201 or another course in the history of late medieval or early modern philosophy (e.g. PHIL UN3237)
• PHIL UN3411 or, in exceptional cases, a more advanced course in logic
• At least one course in either metaphysics or epistemology (e.g. PHIL UN3601, UN3960, or a related course to be chosen in consultation with the director of undergraduate studies)
• At least one course in either ethics or social and political philosophy (e.g. PHIL UN2702, UN3701, UN3751, or a related course to be chosen in consultation with the director of undergraduate studies)
• At least one seminar (PHIL UN3912).

NOTE: No more than one course at the 1000-level can be counted toward the major.
NOTE: In order to enroll in one of the 4000-level courses, students must have taken at least four courses in Philosophy.
NOTE: Students may choose courses prefixed with GR only with the instructor's permission. Additionally, because these courses will be capped, students should register early.

For a Concentration in Philosophy

Program of study: Philosophy, as an academic discipline, has significant points of contact with a wide range of other subjects-in the humanities, the social sciences, and the natural sciences. A concentration in philosophy thus can be an attractive option for many students. Those considering becoming concentrators are strongly encouraged to meet with the director of undergraduate studies early in their sophomore year, in order to discuss their specific interests and to plan their programs of study. All concentrators should consult with the director of undergraduate studies each term before registering for courses.

Courses: At least 24 points in philosophy, chosen from courses prefixed with UN, GU, or GR. There are no specific courses required for the concentration.

NOTE: PHIL UN3912 is open to junior and senior concentrators who have taken at least four courses in philosophy. 

NOTE: Students may choose courses prefixed with GR only with the instructor's permission. Additionally, because these courses will be capped, students should register early.

For a Major in Economics-Philosophy

Adviser for the Economics-Philosophy Major: Professor Philip Kitcher, 717 Philosophy Hall, psk16@columbia.edu.

Please read Regulations for Economics Majors, Concentrators, and Interdepartmental Majors in the Economics section of the Bulletin.

Program of Study:
Economics-philosophy is an interdisciplinary major that, while introducing students to the basic methodologies of economics and philosophy, stresses areas of particular concern to both. These include subjects such as rationality and decision making, justice and efficiency, freedom and collective choice, the logic of empirical theories and their testing. Many of the issues are dealt with historically, and classic texts of Plato, Kant, Mill, Marx, and Smith are reviewed.

Two advisers are assigned for the interdepartmental major, one in the Department of Economics and one in the Department of Philosophy.  Please note that the economics adviser can only advise on the economics requirement and the philosophy adviser can only advise about on the philosophy requirements.

The departmental advisers strongly encourage prospective majors to discuss the major early in their sophomore year. Each major is expected to talk to the departmental advisers in the middle of his or her junior year and at the beginning of his or her senior year.

Required courses: This program requires a total of 44 points: 16 points in economics, 15 points in philosophy, 6 points in mathematics, 3 points in statistics, and 4 points in the interdisciplinary seminar, ECPH W4950.

Economics Core Courses (10 points):

• ECON UN1105, Principles of Economics
• ECON UN3211 Intermediate Microeconomics
• ECON UN3213 Intermediate Macroeconomics

Mathematics (6 points)

Statistics (3 points)

Economics Electives (6 points)

Philosophy Courses (15 points):

• PHIL UN1010 Methods and problems of philosophical thought
• PHIL UN3411 Symbolic Logic
• PHIL UN3701 Ethics (or another adviser-approved course in moral or political philosophy)
• PHIL UN3551 Philosophy of Science or PHIL UN3960 Epistemology
• PHIL GU4561 Probabilty and Decision Theory or PHIL GU4565 Rational Choice

Seminar (4 points)

• ECPH UN4950 Economics and Philosophy Seminar (or another seminar in philosophy or economics approved by advisers in both department)

Students who declare in Spring 2014 and beyond:
In addition to the above requirements, students are required to take:

1. ECON UN3412 Introduction To Econometrics
2. A third economics elective; two of the three electives must be from the prescribed list found in the Economics section of the Bulletin, and the remaining economics elective may be any elective at the 3000-level or above.

Senior Theses

Undergraduates majoring in Philosophy or Economics-Philosophy may apply to write a Senior Thesis.   Students who wish to write a thesis should approach a faculty member at the end of their junior or beginning of their senior year, and begin working on the application early in the Fall semester of their senior year.   Applications are due in early December, and will be reviewed by a committee which will include the Director of Undergraduate Studies; students will be notified of the committee’s decision within two weeks.   Students whose applications are approved should register for their faculty advisor’s section of Supervised Senior Research for the Spring term of the senior year.   Theses are due in early April.  All students who complete theses will be considered for Departmental Honors.

Departmental Honors

Departmental honors are highly competitive.  Normally no more than 10% of the majors graduating in the department each year will receive departmental honors.  

In order to qualify for departmental honors in philosophy, a student must have a grade point average of at least 3.6 in the major.  

For students with a GPA of 3.6 or above, there are two possible routes to consideration:

1. A student may complete a senior thesis; all students who complete senior theses will be considered for honors.
2. A student may be nominated by a faculty member early in the spring semester of the senior year; nominated students will be invited to submit a writing sample.  A nominated student who is also writing a thesis may submit their thesis as the writing sample, or may choose to submit a different work.

Both the senior theses and writing samples are due in early April.  The departmental honors committee will then review the submitted material and the academic records of the writers, and will report to the full faculty.  

The full faculty will then decide which students to recommend for departmental honors to the Columbia College and General Studies administrations.

Requirements

1. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language). You are urged to visit www.toefl.org as quickly as possible for more information on this examination. A minimum score of 600 (paper-based test) or 100 (Internet-based test) is necessary for admission to Columbia. Your score must be reported directly to Columbia by the testing service, using report code 2116.
2. IELTS (International English Language Testing System). You are urged to visit www.ielts.orgas quickly as possible for more information on this examination. A minimum score of 7.0 is necessary for admission to Columbia. Your score must be reported directly to Columbia Undergraduate Admissions.
3. If you have a 650 or higher on the Critical Reading or Writing sections of the SAT, or a 29 or higher on the English or Reading sections of the ACT, you are exempt from taking an English proficiency examination.
4. An official high school transcript from all high schools attended
5. One high school counselor’s recommendation and school profile
6. The completed Mid-Year Report
7. Autobiographical information
8. $85 application fee or fee waiver request
9. Lists and descriptions of a student’s achievements, activities, employment and summer activities
10. Personal essay
11. Columbia-specific questions
12. SAT or the ACT
13. The appropriate SAT code is 2116 and the appropriate ACT code is 2717
14. Two Teacher Recommendations. For engineering applicants, one must come from a math or science teacher

The Philosophy program at Columbia University offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Undergraduate students enrolled in the Philosophy major are encouraged to explore federal and state financial aid programs, including the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which provides grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. Columbia University also participates in several scholarship programs specifically designed for undergraduate students, such as merit-based scholarships that recognize academic excellence and need-based grants to assist students from diverse financial backgrounds. Additionally, external funding sources, including private foundations and philanthropic organizations, may offer fellowships or scholarships to Philosophy students pursuing research or specialized interests within the field.

Graduate students in the Philosophy Ph.D. program typically receive comprehensive funding packages that cover tuition, health insurance, and a stipend for living expenses. These packages are often awarded through teaching assistantships, research assistantships, or fellowships. Teaching assistantships involve assisting professors with undergraduate courses, grading, or leading discussion sections, providing both financial support and valuable teaching experience. Research assistantships may include working on faculty-led projects or contributing to philosophical research initiatives. Fellowships are awarded based on academic merit and research potential, offering competitive stipends that support students during their studies without requiring teaching duties.

Columbia University also provides loan options, which students can consider if other forms of aid suffice but additional funding is needed. Many programs encourage students to start applying early for financial aid and scholarship opportunities, as deadlines are strictly enforced and early application can enhance chances of securing support. Moreover, students are advised to contact the university’s Office of Financial Aid for personalized guidance and to explore specific scholarships or grants that may be available based on individual circumstances, academic interests, or research proposals.

Overall, Columbia University is committed to making its Philosophy program accessible by offering a comprehensive array of financial assistance options designed to reduce barriers and enable talented students to pursue their academic and research goals in philosophy. It is highly recommended that prospective and current students carefully review all available resources, meet with financial aid counselors, and maintain good academic standing to retain eligibility for various forms of financial support.

The Philosophy program at Columbia University offers students a comprehensive education in the fundamental questions concerning existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language. The curriculum is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of the history of philosophical thought from ancient to contemporary periods. Students have the opportunity to engage with a wide array of philosophical topics, including ethics, metaphysics, epistemology, logic, philosophy of mind, and political philosophy. The program encourages rigorous debate and encourages students to explore the implications of philosophical ideas across various disciplines such as science, law, and the arts.

Columbia’s Philosophy Department provides access to distinguished faculty members who are leading scholars in their fields. Students can participate in seminars, workshops, and conferences that foster intellectual growth and active engagement with philosophical research. The department emphasizes both the historical development of philosophical ideas and contemporary issues, enabling students to appreciate the evolution of thought and contribute to current debates.

Undergraduates pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy can customize their studies through elective courses, minors, and interdisciplinary options, allowing for a well-rounded academic experience. The program also offers opportunities for research and independent study, often encouraging students to publish their work or present at academic conferences. Many graduates utilize their philosophical education to pursue careers in academia, law, public policy, publishing, and other fields requiring strong analytical and ethical reasoning skills.

The university's resources, including the Rare Book and Manuscript Library, provide access to an extensive collection of philosophical texts and historical manuscripts, enriching the learning experience. The department maintains a commitment to diversity of thought and inclusive dialogue, fostering an environment where students from varied backgrounds can explore complex issues from multiple perspectives. Additionally, Columbia University’s location in New York City offers students exposure to a vibrant intellectual and cultural environment, with access to museums, public lectures, and philosophical events.

Overall, Columbia University’s Philosophy program aims to cultivate thoughtful, analytical, and ethically responsible individuals equipped to address both enduring philosophical questions and pressing societal challenges. Its blend of rigorous academic training, research opportunities, and vibrant intellectual community makes it a leading program in the field of philosophy.