Philosophy (Science, Nature and Mind), BA
Program Description
The BA program in philosophy with a concentration in science, nature and mind combines training in philosophy with an emphasis on those questions raised by the natural, social and cognitive sciences.
Scientific investigation of the physical world and the mind inevitably makes assumptions about what sorts of things are real, the relationship of physical systems to conscious thought, and the nature of scientific explanation. The natural and social sciences are thus connected with philosophical views in metaphysics and epistemology. In addition, more applied areas of science such as those concerned with sustainability and new technologies raise ethical and policy questions as well as questions about humans' moral relationship to the natural world.
Students enrich their understanding of the natural and social sciences through courses in philosophy as well as courses from related disciplines. This program is a great fit for students who want to complement a science major with a second major in the humanities and for students who wish to do postgraduate work in medicine, sustainability or technology.
In addition to the guidelines in the Concurrent Program Options section below, students interested in pursuing concurrent or second baccalaureate degrees in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences are advised to visit the college's website for more information and requirements.
Required Courses (Major Map)
What if: See how your courses can be applied to another major and find out how to change your major.
At a Glance: program details
- Location: Tempe campus
- Additional Program Fee: Yes
- Second Language Requirement: Yes
- First Required Math Course: MAT 142 - College Mathematics
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Math Intensity:
General
Admission Requirements
All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
Freshman Transfer International Readmission
Transfer Options
ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use the Transfer Map search to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.
ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and help students save time and money in their college journey. Students may learn more about these programs by visiting the admission site: https://admission.asu.edu/transfer/pathway-programs.
Change of Major Requirements
A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.
Students should refer to https://changingmajors.asu.edu for information about how to change a major to this program.
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Career Outlook
The analytical, writing and problem-solving skills gained through a philosophy major are highly transferrable to a very wide range of jobs, and students with a degree in philosophy have the highest median income of all humanities graduates.
Graduates of the science, nature and mind concentration are prepared for career opportunities in medical and mental health fields, climate change areas and sustainability, information and policy analysis, and scientific and nature education and writing. For example, graduates may find employment with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
This program also provides excellent preparation for students interested in medical school.
Example Careers
Students who complete this degree program may be prepared for the following careers. Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for academic or clinical positions. Career examples include but are not limited to:
Environmental Protection Specialist
- Growth: 6.1%
- Median Salary*: $76,480
Health Sciences Manager
- Growth: 4.8%
- Median Salary*: $144,440
Human Behavior Researcher
- Growth: 4.8%
- Median Salary*: $50,470
Industrial Ecologist
- Growth: 6.1%
- Median Salary*: $76,480
Medical Doctor (MD)
- Growth: 2.5%
- Median Salary*: $214,460
Medical Scientist
- Growth: 9.8%
- Median Salary*: $99,930
Mental Health Counselor
- Growth: 18.4%
- Median Salary*: $49,710
Neuropsychologist
- Growth: 5.1%
- Median Salary*: $106,420
Sustainability Specialist
- Growth: 4.1%
- Median Salary*: $75,990
Technical Writer
- Growth: 6.9%
- Median Salary*: $79,960
* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).
Global Opportunities
Global Experience
With over 250 programs in more than 65 countries (ranging from one week to one year), study abroad is possible for all ASU students wishing to gain global skills and knowledge in preparation for a 21st-century career. Students earn ASU credit for completed courses, while staying on track for graduation, and may apply financial aid and scholarships toward program costs. https://mystudyabroad.asu.edu
Program Contact Information
If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.
- 480/965-8364