Philosophy

The Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy at the University of New Brunswick - Saint John offers students a comprehensive exploration of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, and reasoning. This interdisciplinary program is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and ethical awareness, preparing graduates for a wide range of careers in law, education, public service, business, and beyond. Students will engage with classical and contemporary philosophical texts, participate in rigorous debates, and refine their ability to analyze complex ideas logically and convincingly. The curriculum includes courses in logic, ethics, metaphysics, epistemology, political philosophy, and the history of philosophy, providing a well-rounded foundational knowledge. Additionally, students have opportunities to pursue specialized areas such as environmental philosophy, philosophy of mind, and aesthetics, tailored to their interests and career goals. The program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, encouraging students to connect philosophical concepts to real-world issues. Small class sizes and close faculty mentorship foster an interactive learning environment that promotes active discussion and personalized academic development. Graduates of the Philosophy program at UNB Saint John are equipped to think critically, communicate effectively, and approach complex problems with rigor and ethical sensitivity. The program also prepares students for graduate studies or professional pathways that require analytical reasoning and philosophical literacy. With a strong emphasis on research, written and oral communication skills, and ethical reflection, the Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy offers an enriching academic experience that lays a solid foundation for diverse career opportunities and lifelong learning.

The Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy at the University of New Brunswick - Saint John offers students a comprehensive exploration of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, and reasoning. This program is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical abilities, and philosophical understanding that are applicable across various disciplines and careers. Throughout the coursework, students will engage with classic texts from ancient philosophy to contemporary debates, fostering a deep appreciation for the history of ideas and contemporary philosophical issues.

Students will have the opportunity to examine key areas such as ethics, metaphysics, epistemology, logic, and the philosophy of science. The curriculum includes a range of courses that challenge students to think rigorously about moral philosophy, the nature of reality, the limits of human knowledge, and the foundations of scientific inquiry. In addition to theoretical coursework, students will participate in discussions and debates that hone their reasoning and communication skills.

The program also emphasizes the development of analytical writing and critical reading skills, preparing graduates for diverse career paths including law, education, public policy, journalism, and further academic research. Students are encouraged to undertake research projects, attend philosophical seminars, and collaborate with faculty on various scholarly activities. The degree provides a solid foundation for those interested in pursuing graduate studies in philosophy or related fields.

With a supportive academic environment and access to extensive resources, students in the Philosophy program at UNB Saint John will gain both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to analyze complex problems, articulate well-reasoned arguments, and think ethically about their role in society. The program aims to produce thoughtful, reflective individuals committed to lifelong learning and intellectual growth, equipping them to contribute thoughtfully to their communities and the wider world.

Program Requirements: The Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy at the University of New Brunswick - Saint John requires students to complete a total of 120 credit hours for graduation. Students must fulfill the university's general education requirements, which include courses in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and mathematics, ensuring a well-rounded academic background. Within the major, students are expected to complete foundational courses such as Introduction to Philosophy, Logic, and Ethics, which provide core philosophical skills and knowledge. Advanced coursework includes courses in various philosophical areas like Continental Philosophy, Ancient Philosophy, Modern Philosophy, and specialized topics such as Philosophy of Language or Political Philosophy, depending on course availability each academic year.

Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and effective argumentation skills through a combination of lectures, seminars, and independent research projects. To facilitate academic success, students must participate in philosophy seminars and may be required to complete a capstone project or senior thesis, synthesizing their learning and demonstrating research competence in a specific philosophical topic. Elective courses allow students to explore interdisciplinary interests, potentially including courses from related fields such as Religious Studies, Political Science, or Literature, broadening their philosophical perspectives.

In addition, the program stipulates satisfactory academic performance in all philosophy courses, generally requiring a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 or higher in major coursework. Students are also advised to engage with philosophy faculty through office hours, participate in philosophical discussions, and attend departmental events to enhance their academic experience. Internships, co-curricular activities, or research assistantships may be available to augment practical understanding, although these are recommended rather than mandatory. Graduation requirements also include acquiring the necessary credits in residence at the Saint John campus and completing any university-specific ethics or diversity training modules. Overall, the programme aims to cultivate philosophical literacy, ethical reasoning, and interdisciplinary insight, preparing graduates for careers in education, government, law, business, or further graduate studies.

The University of New Brunswick - Saint John offers various financial options to support students enrolled in its Philosophy programs. Prospective students are encouraged to explore multiple sources of funding to assist with tuition, books, living expenses, and other costs associated with their studies. The university provides information on scholarships, bursaries, and awards specifically designated for undergraduate students, including those pursuing a degree in Philosophy. These financial aid opportunities are often based on academic merit, financial need, or a combination of both, and applicants are advised to review the eligibility criteria and application procedures carefully.

In addition to university-specific aid, students may consider external funding sources such as government grants, provincial sponsorships, and private scholarships. The Canadian government offers various student loan programs that can be used to finance university studies, which are accessible to eligible Canadian residents. The New Brunswick government also provides student financial assistance programs, including bursaries and loan forgiveness initiatives, which can substantially reduce the financial burden on students from the province.

Work-study programs and part-time employment opportunities are available on campus and off-campus to help students generate income while balancing their academic responsibilities. UNB Saint John collaborates with local organizations and businesses to facilitate job placements relevant to students’ interests and schedules. Additionally, some students may qualify for tuition deferral programs or payment plans to ease the financial load during the academic year.

International students enrolled at UNB Saint John should explore additional scholarships and funding options specifically available for international students. These may include entrance awards, merit-based scholarships, and specific grants for students from certain countries or regions. The university also offers guidance through its International Student Services office to assist students in navigating the financial landscape and understanding the full range of available support.

Students are encouraged to seek personalized advice from the university’s financial aid office, which provides comprehensive counseling and resources to help them identify the most suitable funding options. It is essential for students to meet all application deadlines and submit accurate documentation to maximize their chances of receiving financial aid. Overall, the University of New Brunswick - Saint John is committed to making higher education accessible and affordable, offering a variety of financial support programs to ensure students in the Philosophy program can focus on their academic and personal development without undue financial stress.

The Philosophy program at the University of New Brunswick - Saint John offers students a comprehensive exploration of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, and reasoning. This program aims to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of philosophical traditions both historically and in contemporary contexts. Students engaged in this program have the opportunity to study a diverse range of philosophical topics, including metaphysics, epistemology, logic, ethics, political philosophy, and the philosophy of science.

The curriculum is designed to foster philosophical inquiry through a combination of lectures, seminars, and independent research projects. Undergraduate students can expect to take foundational courses that introduce core philosophical concepts and methods. As they progress, students may choose specialized courses that allow for deeper engagement with specific philosophical areas or themes. The program emphasizes developing skills in logical analysis, ethical reasoning, and argument construction, which are valuable across many careers.

In addition to coursework, students are encouraged to participate in departmental seminars and academic events that promote engagement with philosophical debates and scholarly communities. The program also offers potential opportunities for internships, research assistantships, and involvement in philosophical societies, which provide practical experience and enhance academic development.

Graduates of the Philosophy program at UNB Saint John typically pursue careers in education, law, public policy, business, or continue their studies in graduate programs. The program is committed to fostering intellectual curiosity and preparing students to think critically and ethically in a diverse and complex world. Overall, the Philosophy program at UNB Saint John aims to cultivate not only academic excellence but also the capacity for reflective and ethical reasoning necessary for participation in civic life and professional fields.