Ethical issues are taking on a greater importance in society and in our lives. Take, for example, medical advances calling into question our concepts of life and death or privacy issues raised by the growing use of the Internet. This multidisciplinary program is theoretical as well as applied.

You will reflect on fundamental issues in moral and political philosophy as you gain insight into ethical issues in health care, business, law, communication, criminology, social work, public affairs and other areas.

Why choose this program

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Multidisciplinary Approach: Both the major and the Honours BA in Ethics and Political Philosophy at the University of Ottawa offer a multidisciplinary education that delves into both theoretical and applied aspects of ethics. You will engage with fundamental issues in moral and political philosophy while exploring ethical dilemmas in various fields, such as health care, business, law, governance, and the sciences.

Relevance to Contemporary Issues: The program equips you with the tools you need to critically analyze and address ethical challenges prevalent in modern society. From medical advances questioning traditional notions of life and death to privacy concerns arising from internet usage, you will explore a wide range of ethical issues shaping our world today.

Broad Career Opportunities: When graduating you will be well-prepared to pursue careers in diverse fields where ethical considerations are paramount, such as health care, business, law, communication, criminology, social work and public affairs. The program provide a solid foundation for students aspiring to make ethical decisions in their professional lives.

Flexible Program Structure: Both the Honours BA and the major offer flexibility, allowing you to combine your studies with a second major or a minor so you can tailor your education to your specific interests and career goals.

Generous Scholarship Opportunities: The University of Ottawa’s scholarship program rewards academic excellence and supports you throughout your academic journey. Scholarships are available for both academic achievement and financial need to ensure that you have the financial support you need to pursue your studies in ethics and political philosophy. 

Browse program options

120 units
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Honors BA in Ethics and Political Philosophy

This multidisciplinary program offers both theoretical and applied education in ethics. It allows you to reflect on fundamental issues in moral and political philosophy and to better understand the foundation and scope of ethical issues in various fields (the environment, health care, business, law, governance, sciences).

Program Structure

Course Sequence

42 units
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Major in Ethics and Political Philosophy

This multidisciplinary program in ethics is both theoretical and applied. You reflect on fundamental issues in moral and political philosophy and come to understand the nature of ethics issues in health care, business, law, communication, criminology, social work, public affairs and other areas.

Can be combined with a second Major or a Minor.

Program Structure

Course Sequence

Admission requirements and deadlines for Ethics and Political Philosophy

After your studies

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After completing your undergraduate studies in Ethics and Political Philosophy, you have two main paths to consider: continuing your education or entering the workforce.

You may choose to pursue graduate studies, such as a Master of Arts Philosophy degree to deepen your knowledge and develop advanced research, analytical, and critical thinking skills. Graduate education can prepare you for specialized professional roles, academic research, and teaching

Alternatively, you can move directly into the job market. Your degree can lead to a variety of careers in fields such as ethics consultation and advisory services, public policy analysis and political consulting, writing and journalism, public service and international affairs, law and mediation, and social, political, and community engagement. 

These opportunities allow you to apply your skills in ethical reasoning, research, critical analysis, communication, and problem-solving in a wide range of professional settings.

Student Experience

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Reading groups

Join one of the reading groups hosted by the Department of Philosophy.
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Undergraduate Philosophy Student Association (UPSA)

The Undergraduate Philosophy Student Association (UPSA) represents undergraduate students enrolled in the Philosophy and in the Ethics programs at the University of Ottawa, and is a federated body within the Student Federation of the University of Ottawa (SFUO).
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Colloquium series

Every year, the department of philosophy offers to its community a series of lectures given by local and guests scholars.

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