The major is comprised of elements from the political science, philosophy, and economics departments, unified under the auspices of the University Honors College (UHC). The major involves a minimum of 51 credits distributed as follows: political science – 21 credits; philosophy – 21 credits; economics – 9 credits. A capstone course, which may have associated credits, is also required.
Required Courses for the Politics and Philosophy major
Political Science courses
Students must complete seven courses in political science. At least four of those courses must be upper level (numbered 1000 or above). One of the courses must be a W-course; the W-course may be either upper- or lower-level.
Philosophy courses
Students must complete seven courses in philosophy. At least four of those courses must be upper level (numbered 1000 or above). One of the courses must be a W-course; the W-course may be either upper- or lower-level.
Economics courses
- ECON 0100 Introduction to Microeconomic Theory
- ECON 0110 Introduction to Macroeconomic Theory
- ECON XXXX any course (no course in the 0800 series may count toward this requirement)
Capstone requirement
In consultation with the major advisor, students may opt for one of the following:
- completion of the Bachelor of Philosophy thesis through the University Honors College (UHC);
- participation in a graduate-level seminar (with permission from the instructor; OR
- completion of a Directed Research Project, an Independent Study, or an Internship.
Grade requirements
A minimum GPA of 2.0 is required in those courses that count toward the major.
Satisfactory/No Credit option
There is no limit on the number of courses in the major that can be taken on an S/NC basis, but it is suggested that these courses be taken for a letter grade.
Writing (W) requirement
The W courses listed under the political science and philosophy requirements satisfy the W requirement for the major.
Related area
A related area is not required due to the interdisciplinary nature of the major.
Advising
David A. Hornyak
CL 3600
412-624-6884
hornyak@pitt.edu