Overview

The Philosophy (Public Affairs Focus) at George Washington University offers a rigorous academic pathway for students interested in the intersection of logic and governance. This programme provides a unique lens through which to view modern societal challenges and the ethical frameworks that underpin public decision-making.

Students who choose this major explore the core foundations of philosophical thought while specifically investigating issues related to contemporary ethics and political philosophy. The curriculum is designed to bridge the gap between abstract theory and the practical realities of the public sphere.

The course of study delves deeply into critical social and political topics that define the modern era.

Why Philosophy (Public Affairs Focus) at George Washington University?

The programme is housed within the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, providing access to a vast network of academic resources. Students benefit from a curriculum that integrates the Perspective, Analysis, and Communication (G-PAC) framework to enhance analytical skills.

Distinctive features include the opportunity to pursue Special Honors, which requires maintaining a high grade-point average and completing a supervised faculty research paper. This focus on high-level research prepares students for advanced academic or professional pursuits.

The university also offers a combined pathway for ambitious students. This allows for a dual Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts in public policy, specifically concentrating on the philosophical aspects of social policy and governance.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 69780 per year
National fee: USD 69780 per year
Local fee: USD 69780 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Philosophy
Logic
History of Ancient Philosophy
History of Modern Philosophy
Ethics: Theory and Applications
Social and Political Philosophy
Contemporary Issues in Ethics
Proseminar
Readings and Research
Critical Thinking in the Humanities
Quantitative Reasoning
Scientific Reasoning
University Writing
Arts
Global or Cross-cultural Perspective
Local or Civic Engagement

Careers with Philosophy (Public Affairs Focus)

Graduates are prepared for diverse roles that require strong critical thinking and ethical reasoning. The focus on public affairs makes this degree particularly suitable for careers in public policy, law, and governmental consultancy.

The skills developed during the programme are highly valued in sectors such as non-profit management, social advocacy, and corporate social responsibility. Students gain the ability to navigate complex ethical landscapes in both the public and private sectors.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Philosophy

Logic

History of Ancient Philosophy

History of Modern Philosophy

Ethics: Theory and Applications

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-13 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-08-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-05 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

120

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Washington, D. C., United States

Disciplines

Philosophy Public Relations View 322 other Bachelors in Public Relations in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

120

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Submit an Application
Submit a Writing Supplement (Optional)
Send Official Transcripts
Send Optional Test Scores
Demonstrate English Language Proficiency
Submit a School Report
Submit a Letter of Recommendation
Complete a Financial Certificate
Submit a Portfolio (Corcoran Only)
Send Optional Documents
Check Your Application Status

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

69780 USD / year

≈ 69780 USD / year
Out-of-State

69780 USD / year

≈ 69780 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

69780 USD / year

≈ 69780 USD / year

Living costs

Washington, D. C.

United States

1705 - 2975 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Philosophy (Public Affairs Focus).

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Washington, D. C.

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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