When you undertake the Bachelor of Philosophy, you will be encouraged to reflect deeply and critically on the fundamental questions that have perplexed man since ancient times. You will also be challenged to examine your own beliefs, values and approach to living. A study of philosophy will boost your own critical thinking abilities and deepen your cultural literacy by exploring how philosophical thought has influenced Western culture.

Students of Philosophy are encouraged to reflect deeply and critically on fundamental questions, and are challenged to examine their own beliefs, values and the practical implications for living. This three-year Bachelor of Philosophy program covers various areas of philosophical thought, major topics, and thinkers within the discipline. It also includes treatment of the Catholic intellectual tradition.

In Western Australia, Philosophy is available to secondary school students under the Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE). By studying a Bachelor of Philosophy and gaining a postgraduate teaching qualification, such as the Master of Teaching (Secondary), you will be eligible to teach philosophy in secondary schools.

Students studying a degree in Philosophy can undertake a Major in the following disciplines:

Theology, History, English Literature, Politics and International Relations, Behavioural Science and Social Justice. Students may also wish to study Philosophy and/or Theology as a Major within a degree in the School of Arts and Sciences.

Career opportunities

The following careers are open to graduates of this program:

• Academic teaching
• Public libraries
• Research institutes
• Education and teaching (upon completion of a graduate-entry teaching qualification)
• International diplomacy
• Trade missions
• Journalism
• Editing
• Media
• Script writing
• Advertising

Sydney Campus

The Bachelor of Philosophy offers a comprehensive education in the history, major domains and contemporary issues of philosophy. You will develop high-level critical thinking skills and the ability to defend and communicate a reasoned point of view. As a graduate this means you will find employment in areas where the ability to think clearly, logically and creatively are valued.

Why study this degree?

At The University of Notre Dame Australia, we teach students to think critically and to become knowledgeable and considerate citizens. Our aim is to educate the whole person by facilitating engagement with the deeper questions of individual and social life. The Bachelor of Philosophy provides the foundation of a broad and balanced philosophical education. The program covers Ancient, Medieval and Modern philosophy while grappling with the contemporary problems addressed by both analytic and continental philosophy. It takes seriously the Catholic philosophical tradition, which emphasises the importance of considering ideas from all points of view.

At the School of Philosophy & Theology, we take a personal approach to philosophical education. During this program, you will be asked to consider the meaning and purpose of human life in an environment that prioritizes both constructive interaction with students and pastoral care.

Career opportunities

The following careers are open to graduates of this program:

• Advocacy
• Journalism and media
• International diplomacy and trade missions
• Policy development
• Government administration
• Academic teaching
• Public libraries
• Research institutes