Please note:

To view the Fall 2024 Academic Calendar, go to www.sfu.ca/students/calendar/2024/fall.html.

Philosophy and Health Sciences Joint Major

Bachelor of Arts

Students may opt for a bachelor of arts through the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences or a bachelor of arts through the Faculty of Health Sciences. Faculty degree requirements will be governed by the faculty through which the student chooses to complete the degree.

Admission Requirements

To be admitted to the joint major in philosophy and health sciences, students must complete:

(A) one of the following HSCI courses with a minimum grade of C-:

  • HSCI 100 (or BISC 101), HSCI 130, HSCI 204, HSCI 207, HSCI 210, HSCI 211, HSCI 212, HSCI 214, HSCI 216, HSCI 220, or HSCI 230

and (B) one of the following PHIL courses with a minimum grade of C-:

  • PHIL 201 or PHIL 203.

Program Requirements

Courses used toward the upper division philosophy requirements may not be used as part of health sciences credit requirements, and vice versa. Any lower division course that counts toward the separate requirements for philosophy and health sciences may be counted toward both.

Students are required to satisfy the prerequisites of all courses (upper and lower division) that are taken within this joint major and should consult regularly with the program advisors regarding course selection.

Students complete 120 units, as specified below.

Lower Division Health Sciences Requirements

Students complete a minimum of 15 units, including both of

HSCI 100 - Human Biology (3)

An examination of the biological processes that underlie human health and well-being, with emphasis on the evolutionary and ecological influences affecting human populations. Students with credit for BISC 101 may not take HSCI 100 for further credit. Breadth-Science.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
D100 Frank Lee
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Fri, 8:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
Burnaby
D101 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D102 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D103 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
Burnaby
HSCI 130 - Foundations of Health Science (4)

How health, illness and disease are defined and measured for individuals and populations. Research strategies used to identify how health, illness and disease are distributed across human populations and how environmental, socio-economic, demographic, biological, behavioural and political factors influence individual and population health. Breadth-Social Sci/Science.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
D100 Robert Hogg
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Fri, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D101 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 5:30–6:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D102 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 5:30–6:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D103 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 5:30–6:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D104 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 5:30–6:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D107 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Fri, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D108 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Fri, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby

and at least three of

HSCI 204 - Perspectives on Human Health and the Environment (3)

An overview of environmental hazards and their impacts on human health. Methodological approaches to their detection, assessment, management, and mitigation. Prerequisite: HSCI 100 or BISC 101, HSCI 130, all with a minimum grade of C-. Students with credit for HSCI 304 may not take this course for further credit.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
D100 Ryan Allen
Bruce Lanphear
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
HSCI 207 - Research Methods in Health Sciences (3)

Principles and applications in health sciences research methodology. Quantitative and qualitative methods. Research process and design. Appropriate approaches for diverse research questions. Research ethics, sources of data, sampling, measurement, data collection, initial data analysis techniques. Prerequisite: HSCI 130 with a minimum grade of C-. Corequisite: STAT 201 or 203 or 205. Students with credit for HSCI 307 may not take this course for further credit.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
D100 Rochelle Tucker
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D101 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 5:30–6:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D102 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 5:30–6:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D103 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 6:30–7:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D105 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Fri, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D106 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Fri, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
HSCI 210 - Special Topics in Health Sciences (3)

Selected topics in areas not currently offered within the undergraduate course offerings. Prerequisite: Will vary according to topic.

HSCI 211 - Perspectives on Cancer, Cardiovascular, and Metabolic Diseases (3)

An interdisciplinary overview of the major non-communicable diseases - cancers, cardiovascular and metabolic diseases - from a public health perspective. Review of biological mechanisms, risk factors, historical and cultural contexts, and global distribution. Prerequisite: HSCI 100 or BISC 101, HSCI 130, all with a minimum grade of C-.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
D100 Scott Lear
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D101 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 5:30–6:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D102 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 5:30–6:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D103 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 6:30–7:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D104 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 6:30–7:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D105 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 5:30–6:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D106 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 5:30–6:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D107 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 6:30–7:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D108 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 6:30–7:20 p.m.
Burnaby
HSCI 212 - Perspectives on Infectious and Immunological Diseases (3)

An integrated survey of infectious diseases and their social and economic causes and consequences. Infectious agents, including bacteria, protozoa, fungi and viruses -- how they spread, how they work, and how they can be stopped. Surveillance, prevention, and management of infectious diseases and epidemics. Prerequisite: HSCI 100 or BISC 101, HSCI 130, all with a minimum grade of C-.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
D100 Elizabeth King
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Fri, 8:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
Burnaby
D101 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D102 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D103 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D105 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 8:30–9:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D106 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 8:30–9:20 a.m.
Burnaby
HSCI 214 - Perspectives on Mental Health and Illness (3)

An interdisciplinary overview of mental health and mental illness among populations. A review of the distribution and risk factors of mental illnesses as well as the historical and cultural context of their development. Prerequisite: HSCI 100 or BISC 101, HSCI 130, all with a minimum grade of C-.

HSCI 216 - Ecological Determinants of Human Growth, Development and Health (3)

Effects that social and ecological factors have on human growth, development and health. Challenges such as epidemics, natural catastrophes, industrialization, globalization, migration, poverty, war, global warming, etc, leading to evolution and adaptations. Relationships between socio-ecological challenges, their health consequences and related gene-population variations and effects on growth, development, sexual maturation, reproductive investment, and senescence and health. Prerequisite: HSCI 100 or BISC 101, with a minimum grade of C-.

HSCI 220 - Indigenous Experiences of Health (3)

An examination of Indigenous experiences of health and well-being that will encourage respectful, collaborative and ethical relationships with Indigenous peoples and communities. Students will learn about historical and ongoing impacts of colonization in Canada and continuous efforts of Indigenous communities to assert their own practices of health and well-being. Prerequisite: HSCI 130 with a minimum grade of C- or permission of the instructor. Students who have taken HSCI 210 under this topic in Spring 2022 and Fall 2022 may not take this course for further credit.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
D100 Krista Stelkia
Nienke Van Houten
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
HSCI 230 - Evaluating Epidemiological Research (3)

Prepares students at a foundational level to evaluate and critique conclusions drawn from epidemiological research. Students will also experience the value and limitations of epidemiology as a tool for researching health and disease in populations. Prerequisite: 30 units, including HSCI 130 with a minimum grade of C-, or permission of the instructor. Students with credit for HSCI 330 may not take this course for further credit.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
D100 Travis Salway
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Fri, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby

and one of

STAT 201 - Statistics for the Life Sciences (3)

Research methodology and associated statistical analysis techniques for students with training in the life sciences. Intended to be particularly accessible to students who are not specializing in Statistics. Prerequisite: Recommended: 30 units. Students cannot obtain credit for STAT 201 if they already have credit for - or are taking concurrently - STAT 101, 203, 205, 285, or any upper division STAT course. Quantitative.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
D900 Wei Lin
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
Surrey
Surrey
OL01 Wei Lin
Online
OP09 TBD
STAT 203 - Introduction to Statistics for the Social Sciences (3)

Descriptive and inferential statistics aimed at students in the social sciences. Scales of measurement. Descriptive statistics. Measures of association. Hypothesis tests and confidence intervals. Students in Sociology and Anthropology are expected to take SA 255 before this course. Intended to be particularly accessible to students who are not specializing in Statistics. Prerequisite: Recommended: 30 units including a research methods course such as SA 255, CRIM 220, POL 200W, or equivalent. Students cannot obtain credit for STAT 203 if they already have credit for - or are taking concurrently - STAT 101, 201, 205, 285, or any upper division STAT course. Quantitative.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
D100 Joan Hu
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
Burnaby
Burnaby
OL01 Wei Lin
Online
OP01 TBD
STAT 205 - Introduction to Statistics (3)

The collection, description, analysis and summary of data, including the concepts of frequency distribution, parameter estimation and hypothesis testing. Intended to be particularly accessible to students who are not specializing in Statistics. Prerequisite: Recommended: 30 units. Students cannot obtain credit for STAT 205 if they already have credit for - or are taking concurrently - STAT 101, 201, 203, 285, or any upper division STAT course. Quantitative.

Lower Division Philosophy Requirements

In selecting lower division courses, students are advised to consider the prerequisite structure for upper division courses in philosophy.

Students complete a minimum of 12 units, including at least one of

PHIL 100W - Knowledge and Reality (3)

An introduction to some of the central problems of philosophy. Topics to be discussed include the different theories of reality; the nature and sources of knowledge, truth, evidence, and reason; the justification of belief and knowledge about the universe. These topics and problems will be considered as they arise in the context of issues such as: relativism versus absolutism; the existence of God; personal identity; the nature of the mind and its relation to the body; free will and determinism; the possibility of moral knowledge. Open to all students. Students with credit for PHIL 100 or PHIL 300 may not take this course for further credit. Writing/Breadth-Humanities.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
D100 Gregory Lauro
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D101 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D102 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D103 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D104 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D105 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D106 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D107 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D108 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D109 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D110 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 4:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D111 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 4:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D112 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 4:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D113 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 4:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D114 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 5:30–6:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D115 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D116 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 3:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D900 Lydia du Bois
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Fri, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
Surrey
PHIL 120W - Moral and Legal Problems (3)

A critical examination of a range of moral and legal issues we confront in our dealings with the state and our fellow human beings, such as: Is it wrong to break the law? Should pornography and recreational drugs be illegal? Do animals have rights? Is there a duty to admit immigrants? Are there duties to the world's poor? Are indigenous peoples owed reparations? Students with credit for PHIL 120 may not take this course for further credit. Writing/Breadth-Humanities.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
D100 Evan Tiffany
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D101 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D102 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D103 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D104 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D105 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D106 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D107 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D108 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D109 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D110 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D111 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 4:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D112 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 4:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D113 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 4:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D114 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 4:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D115 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 5:30–6:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D116 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 2:30–3:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D117 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 3:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D118 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D119 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D120 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D121 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D122 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D123 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D124 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
PHIL 121 - Global Justice (3)

An introduction to the ethical issues arising from interactions of states, NGOs and other international agents. Topics may include international human rights, terrorism, war, gender justice, climate justice, fairness in international trade, cultural diversity and conflict, the rights of indigenous peoples, collective responsibility and restitution for historical wrongdoing, among others. Students who have received credit for PHIL 220 cannot receive credit for this course. Breadth-Humanities/Social Sciences.

PHIL 144 - Introduction to Philosophy of Science (3)

An introduction to philosophical issues concerning the nature of science. Topics to be discussed include the distinction between science and pseudo-science, the nature of scientific method, the nature of explanation in the natural and social sciences, the phenomenon of scientific change, the relationship between scientific theory and observation, and the objectivity of social science. Students with credit for PHIL 244 may not take this course for further credit. Breadth-Humanities/Sciences.

PHIL 150 - Great Works in the History of Philosophy (3)

A survey of some classic texts in the history of philosophy. See the course outline for more detail on the specific figures and themes covered. Open to all students. Students with credit for PHIL 151 may not take this course for further credit. Breadth-Humanities.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
B100 Qiu Lin
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
B101 Qiu Lin
TBD

and

PHIL 110 - Introduction to Logic and Reasoning (3)

An introduction to the theory of deductive reasoning. We consider deductive arguments in philosophy, in everyday life, and in mathematical proofs, and discuss what distinguishes valid inferences from fallacies. The course will cover propositional logic and first-order logic. Open to all students. Quantitative.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
D100 Thomas Donaldson
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D101 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D102 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D103 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
Burnaby
D104 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D105 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D106 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D107 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D108 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 3:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D109 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D110 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 1:30–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby

and two of

PHIL 201 - Epistemology (3)

A critical overview of recent accounts of the nature and scope of human knowledge and of justified or rational belief, and of philosophical issues that these accounts are intended to address. Prerequisite: One of PHIL 100, 100W, 120, 120W, 121, 144, 150, 151, 300, or COGS 100. Students who have taken PHIL 301 cannot take this course for further credit.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
D100 Gregory Lauro
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
PHIL 203 - Metaphysics (3)

An examination of central problems of metaphysics such as space and time, universals and particulars, substance, identity and individuation and personal identity. Prerequisite: One of PHIL 100, 100W, 120, 120W, 121, 144, 150, 151, 300, or COGS 100.

PHIL 221 - Ethical Theory (3)

An examination of the major ethical theories, including deontology, consequentialism and virtue ethics. Applications of these theories and related topics in value theory may also be discussed. Prerequisite: One of PHIL 100, 100W, 120, 120W, 121, 144, 150, 151, or 300.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
D100 Bruno Guindon
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Mon, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 12:30–1:20 p.m.
Burnaby
Burnaby

Upper Division Health Sciences Requirements

Students complete a minimum of 21 upper division health sciences units, including all of

HSCI 305 - The Canadian Health System (3)

A comparative analysis of the Canadian health care financing and delivery systems and policies. History, organizational principles, health care resources, costs, access to care, quality, and equity. Societal and political issues, threats and values that affect Canada's health care system and others around the world. Prerequisite: 60 units, including nine HSCI units with a minimum grade of C-.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
OL01 Helen McTaggart-Cowan
Online
HSCI 319W - Applied Health Ethics (3)

Practical ethical and legal issues in health sciences, emphasizing population and public health. Case studies approach highlighting current ethical dilemmas and decision-making in the context of global to local legal frameworks. Prerequisite: 75 units including nine HSCI units with a minimum grade of C-, one of which must be a 200-division course. Writing.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
D100 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D101 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 4:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D102 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 4:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D103 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 5:30–6:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D104 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 5:30–6:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D200 Lydia du Bois
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D201 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 4:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
D202 Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 5:30–6:20 p.m.
Burnaby
HSCI 327 - Global Health Ethics (3)

Ethical issues related to public health as they are located in and influenced by a global context. Consideration of several ethical approaches including utilitarianism, deontic ethics, and the capabilities approach, as well as theories of justice. Application of approaches to topics ranging from global markets in human organs to international migration of health workers and pharmaceutical testing in the Developing World. Prerequisite: 60 units and one of PHIL 120W (or equivalent), 121, 221, or HSCI 319W, with a minimum grade of C-. Students who have taken HSCI 320 or PHIL 327 may not take this course for further credit.

HSCI 340 - Social Determinants of Health (3)

Social determinants of health and health inequities. Explores how and why the social advantages and disadvantages that people experience - based on their social position(s) and social circumstances - determine their health status and overall well-being. Prerequisite: 60 units and two HSCI 200-level courses with a minimum grade of C-, one of which may be taken concurrently.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
D100 Kimberly Thomson
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 11:30 a.m.–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
HSCI 488 - Directed Studies in Health Sciences (3)

Independent studies on topics selected in consultation with the supervising instructor. A student will be permitted to enroll in this course only if she or he obtains the prior written agreement of a professor who will act as research supervisor.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
D100 Nienke Van Houten
TBD
D200 TBD
D300 TBD
D400 TBD

Upper Division Philosophy Requirements

Students complete a total of 20 upper division philosophy units, including

PHIL 467W - Advanced Seminar (4)

An advanced, in-depth seminar on a contemporary or historical philosophical topic. Required for all students in a philosophy major, philosophy honours, or joint major program. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: 15 upper division PHIL units or permission from the instructor. Students not in a philosophy major, philosophy honours, or joint major program can take PHIL 467W only with special permission from the instructor. Writing.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
D100 Bruno Guindon
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Burnaby

and at least one of

PHIL 320 - Social and Political Philosophy (3)

An examination of an issue or selection of issues in social and political philosophy. Contemporary or historical readings or a mixture of these will be used. Possible topics include: justice, the law and legal systems, sovereignty, power and authority, democracy, liberty and equality. Sometimes the course will focus on the views of historically important political philosophers, such as Plato, Aristotle, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Burke, Bentham, Mill and Marx. Prerequisite: One of PHIL 120, 120W, 121, 220, 221, 270, SDA 270, ENV 320W, or REM 320W.

PHIL 321 - Topics in Moral Philosophy (3)

An advanced investigation of central issues and theories in moral philosophy. In any given term, the course may focus on a general theory or concept or concern, for example meta-ethics, utilitarianism, or theories of rights. Sometimes it will focus on a particular problem or problems, such as medical ethics, moral personhood, or free will and moral responsibility. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: One of PHIL 120, 120W, 121, 220, 221, 270, SDA 270, ENV 320W, or REM 320W.

PHIL 322 - History of Ethics (3)

An examination of an issue or selection of issues in the history of moral or political philosophy. Historical readings will be the primary focus and may include important figures such as Aristotle, Hobbes, Locke, Hume, and Kant. Prerequisite: One of PHIL 120, 120W, 121, 150, 151, 220, 221, 270, SDA 270, ENV 320W, or REM 320W.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
D100 Michaela Manson
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
PHIL 326 - Topics in Law and Philosophy (3)

Explores in detail classic problems in the law using the methods and resources of philosophy. Topics may include: problems in professional ethics facing lawyers; philosophical issues in international law and human rights; constitutional interpretation and the philosophy of language; the assessment of evidence and formal epistemology; the intellectual origins of the theory of natural law and natural rights; or others. Students may repeat this course for further credit under a different topic. Prerequisite: One of PHIL 120, 120W, 121, 220, 221, 270, SDA 270, ENV 320W, or REM 320W.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
D100 Bruno Guindon
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 11:30 a.m.–2:20 p.m.
Burnaby
PHIL 328 - Environmental Philosophy (3)

A survey of contemporary issues in environmental ethics. Topics may include: animal rights, the intrinsic value of nature, 'deep ecology', obligations to future generations, conservation, environmental justice, as well as relevant background materials in ethical theory. Prerequisite: One of PHIL 120, 120W, 121, 220, 221, 270, SDA 270, ENV 320W, or REM 320W. Students who have completed PHIL 318 may not take this course for further credit.

PHIL 329 - Law and Justice (3)

Explores in detail the relationship between the law and theories of justice. Topics range over: the philosophy of punishment, theories of moral responsibility, charter equality rights, and theories of distributive justice. Prerequisite: One of PHIL 120, 120W, 121, 220, 221, 270, SDA 270, ENV 320W, or REM 320W. Students with credit for PHIL 333 in Spring 2016 cannot take this course for further credit.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
D100 Chelsea Rosenthal
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby

and at least one of

PHIL 302 - Topics in Epistemology and Metaphysics (3)

An exploration of philosophical issues concerning, e.g.: causation, time, modality, or the self; the realism/nominalism or realism/idealism debate; relativism; the concept of truth; naturalized epistemology; global epistemological skepticism or perhaps a 'local' form of skepticism such as skepticism about induction or about sensory belief. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: PHIL 201 or 203.

PHIL 341 - Philosophy of Science (3)

A study of the nature of scientific enquiry, classificatory systems, laws and theories, the role of observation in science, the demarcation between science and non-science, causality, the status of theoretical constructs, and teleological explanation. Prerequisite: Either one of: PHIL 201 or 203; or both of PHIL 100, 100W, or 300, and COGS 200.

PHIL 343 - Topics in the Philosophy of Mind (3)

A study of theories of the mind, consciousness, and human action. Students may repeat this course for further credit under a different topic. Prerequisite: Either one of: PHIL 201 or 203; or both of PHIL 100, 100W, or 300, and COGS 200.

PHIL 344 - Topics in the Philosophy of Language (3)

An introduction to the major philosophic theories of language. Topics to be considered include the relationship between language and mind, language and the world, language and society. Students may repeat this course for further credit under a different topic. Prerequisite: Either one of: PHIL 201 or 203; or both of PHIL 100, 100W, or 300, and COGS 200.

PHIL 345W - Philosophy of Mathematics (3)

Examines central philosophical issues related to mathematics. Topics may include the metaphysical status of mathematical entities, mathematical knowledge, set theory and others. Prerequisite: One of PHIL 110, 210, 314, 315 or MACM 101. Writing.

and at least one of

PHIL 322 - History of Ethics (3) *

An examination of an issue or selection of issues in the history of moral or political philosophy. Historical readings will be the primary focus and may include important figures such as Aristotle, Hobbes, Locke, Hume, and Kant. Prerequisite: One of PHIL 120, 120W, 121, 150, 151, 220, 221, 270, SDA 270, ENV 320W, or REM 320W.

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
D100 Michaela Manson
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Wed, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
PHIL 350 - Ancient Philosophy (3)

Examines central philosophical themes and figures in ancient philosophy. Topics may include justice, knowledge, the good life, time, change, appearance and reality, the nature of God, and others. Historical readings will be the central focus and may include works by Plato, Aristotle, Thales, Anaximander, Pythagoras, Parmenides and others. Prerequisite: One prior philosophy course (not including PHIL 105, PHIL 110, PHIL 310, PHIL 314, or PHIL 315).

Section Instructor Day/Time Location
D100 Nicolas Fillion
Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Tue, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
PHIL 352 - 17th Century Philosophy (3)

An examination of some central issues in 17th century philosophy. Themes may include: changing theories of causation, of the mind, and of the relation between mind and world. Historical readings will be the primary focus and may include important figures such as Descartes, Elisabeth of Bohemia, Malebranche, Spinoza, Leibniz, and Locke. Prerequisite: One prior philosophy course (not including PHIL 105, PHIL 110, PHIL 310, PHIL 314, or PHIL 315). Students who have completed PHIL 353 or PHIL 354 prior to Fall 2006 may not take this course for further credit.

PHIL 356 - 18th Century Philosophy (3)

An examination of some central issues of 18th century philosophy. Themes may include the development of the theory of ideas and epistemology associated with it. The primary focus may include important figures such as Locke, Berkeley, Hume, and Condillac. Prerequisite: One prior philosophy course (not including PHIL 105, PHIL 110, PHIL 310, PHIL 314, or PHIL 315). Students with credit for PHIL 355 prior to Fall 2006 may not take this course for further credit.

PHIL 357 - Topics in the History of Philosophy (3)

May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: One prior philosophy course (not including PHIL 105, PHIL 110, PHIL 310, PHIL 314, or PHIL 315).

PHIL 358 - 19th Century Philosophy (3)

An examination of some major figures in 19th century philosophy. Themes may include German idealism and romanticism, British idealism, positivism and American pragmatism; studied figures may include Schopenhauer, Fichte, Hegel, Marx, Nietzsche, Comte, Kierkegaard, Brentano, Meinong, Mill, Peirce and James, depending on theme. Prerequisite: One prior philosophy course (not including PHIL 105, PHIL 110, PHIL 310, PHIL 314, or PHIL 315).

PHIL 300 may not be used to satisfy the upper division requirements of this program.

* if not taken in satisfaction of requirement above

Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences Degree Requirements

For all bachelor of arts (BA) programs, students complete 120 units, which includes

  • at least 60 units that must be completed at Simon Fraser University
  • at least 45 upper division units, of which at least 30 upper division units must be completed at Simon Fraser University
  • at least 60 units (including 21 upper division units) in Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences courses
  • satisfaction of the writing, quantitative, and breadth requirements
  • an overall cumulative grade point average (CGPA) and upper division overall CGPA of at least 2.0, and program CGPA and upper division program CGPA of at least 2.0 on the course work used to satisfy the minimum program requirements. FASS departments may define additional GPA requirements for their respective programs.

Writing, Quantitative, and Breadth Requirements

Students admitted to Simon Fraser University beginning in the fall 2006 term must meet writing, quantitative and breadth requirements as part of any degree program they may undertake. See Writing, Quantitative, and Breadth Requirements for university-wide information.

WQB Graduation Requirements

A grade of C- or better is required to earn W, Q or B credit

Requirement

Units

Notes
W - Writing

6

Must include at least one upper division course, taken at Simon Fraser University within the student's major subject; two courses (minimum three units each)

Q - Quantitative

6

Q courses may be lower or upper division; two courses (total six units or more)
B - Breadth

18

Designated Breadth

Must be outside the student's major subject, and may be lower or upper division:

Two courses (total six units or more) Social Sciences: B-Soc
Two courses (total six units or more) Humanities: B-Hum
Two courses (total six units or more) Sciences: B-Sci

6

Additional Breadth

Two courses (total six units or more) outside the student's major subject (may or may not be B-designated courses, and will likely help fulfil individual degree program requirements).

Students choosing to complete a joint major, joint honours, double major, two extended minors, an extended minor and a minor, or two minors may satisfy the breadth requirements (designated or not designated) with courses completed in either one or both program areas.

Residency Requirements and Transfer Credit

  • At least half of the program's total units must be earned through Simon Fraser University study.
  • At least two thirds of the program's total upper division units must be earned through Simon Fraser University study.

Elective Courses

In addition to the courses listed above, students should consult an academic advisor to plan the remaining required elective courses.