Bachelor of Arts (Major in Philosophy)
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Arts majoring in Philosophy introduces students to four broad categories: Epistemology (what we can claim to know), Logic (formal rules of thought), Metaphysics (the basic constituents of reality), and Ethics (moral principles of action). Students develop rigorous analytical thinking and moral reasoning skills applicable across all disciplines and professions.
The success of philosophy students in graduate education and varied careers has long been attributed to their preparation in formal thought, structural relationships, abstract models, and deductive reasoning. Students majoring in other programs such as Psychology, Politics, Literature, and History often take Philosophy as a minor. Philosophy graduates are equipped for careers in law, public service, policy, education, research, and any field demanding clarity of thought and ethical reasoning.
Entry Requirements
Applicants must have successfully completed Grade 12 from a recognised institution. The following minimum grades are required for school leaver selection:
- A grade of C or better in Language & Literature or Applied English (one subject).
- A grade of B or better in General Mathematics or Advanced Mathematics (one subject).
- A grade of B or better in three (3) subjects chosen from Economics, History, Geography, Physics, Chemistry or Biology.
Minimum GPA: 2.75, calculated across the subjects listed above (A=4, B=3, C=2, D=1, F=0; subjects not taken are excluded from the calculation). Note that meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission — places are limited and competition is strong.
NOSS selection formula (2025): (COUNT_C[LL,AE]=1)&(COUNT_B[GM,AM]=1)&(COUNT_B[Ec,Hi,Gr,Ph,Ch,Bi]=3)&(GPA[LL,AE,AM,GM,Ec,Hi,Gr,Bi,Ch,Ph]>=2.75)
Course Structure
Year 1
- 4.11801Logic
Year 2
Semester 1
- 4.21801Epistemology
- 4.21802Philosophy & Journalism
Semester 2
- 4.21803Social Political Philosophy
Year 3
Semester 1
- 4.31801Contemporary Moral Issues
- 4.31825Melanesian Philosophy
Semester 2
- 4.31803Existentialism (Philosophy & Literature)
- 4.31835Business Ethics & Development
Year 4
Semester 1
- 4.41802Reading Course (Philosophy)
Semester 2
- 4.41801Comparative Philosophy
- 4.41803Reading Course (Philosophy)
Course codes shown are indicative. Please contact the School directly for official course codes and credit information.