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Philosophy offers a structured approach to formulating and addressing profound questions about human existence. It explores core dimensions of reality (metaphysics), our understanding and connection to it (epistemology, philosophy of mind), and our identity as thinking, goal-oriented social creatures (ethics, political philosophy). Engaging with philosophy fosters an understanding of how this field has evolved, its current approaches, and potential future directions. Additionally, it serves as a reflective lens for examining other academic domains like science, arts, and humanities. The Philosophy Major features four specialized tracks: General Philosophy (32 credits), Humanistic Philosophy (36 credits), Philosophy and Science (36 credits), and Political and Moral Philosophy (36 credits). A 6-credit minor option is also available. Each concentration and the minor include both Distribution and Level Requirements. Detailed requirement information can be accessed here (pdf).
International applicant should have completed a program of secondary education that would enable you to enter a university in your own country (e.g., A-levels, Abitur).
A strong command of the English language is necessary for successful study at Penn. Applicants whose families do not speak English at home, or applicants who have not attended a high school or secondary school where the primary language of instruction is English, are asked to take the TOEFL, the Test of English as a Foreign Language, administered by the Educational Testing Service. In the event the TOEFL is not readily accessible, Penn will accept results from the IELTS, the International English Language Testing System.