Philosophy studies can be broken down into several types of learning, which are as varied as they are complementary. Through these, students will:
- adopt a reflective and critical approach to such issues as the sciences, language, history, politics, ethics, art and literature.
- at the same time, acquire an in-depth knowledge of the philosophical tradition as they become familiar with the main thinkers of the four periods of history;
- often be required to philosophise during seminars and practical exercises as they read texts, write commentaries, produce arguments and enter into dialogue with tradition by confronting different approaches to a single question and daring to formulate hypotheses of their own.
Minor subjects
As a philosopher must enter into dialogue with other forms of knowledge, the programme also includes introductions to history, art history, linguistics, literature, sociology, psychology, etc.
Students can also choose a group of courses (minor subjects comprising four course units) which allow a deeper exploration of another discipline.
Philosophy students can choose from the following minor subjects:
- English
- History
- Literature
- Political science
Languages
Finally, in order to be able to interact with a multicultural and multilingual world, students also receive language training. The bachelor's degree in philosophy includes a minimum of 10 language credits.
In the first year, students take an English course, with a special focus on reading and practising academic English. Two levels are offered (intermediate and advanced). During the second year, students can choose between different courses in modern languages (English, Dutch, German, Spanish or Italian literature) or an ancient language (Latin). The level varies according to the language chosen.
Furthermore, the minor subjects offer the possibility to acquire an excellent level of English, with a thorough grounding in both linguistics and literary and cultural studies.