Overview

The Visual Studies-Philosophy and Science of Seeing B.A. at the University of Pennsylvania is a deeply interdisciplinary programme designed to bridge the gap between the humanities and the sciences. Students engage with the complex mechanisms of human vision, exploring how biological processes and philosophical theories shape our understanding of the world. This unique curriculum prepares graduates to think critically about the role of images in the 21st century.

By partnering with diverse departments such as Psychology, Philosophy, and Fine Arts, the programme offers a comprehensive academic environment. Students investigate the perception of colour, movement, and space while addressing historical and contemporary problems in the philosophy of vision.

Why Visual Studies-Philosophy and Science of Seeing at the University of Pennsylvania?

The University of Pennsylvania provides an unparalleled interdisciplinary framework for studying visual culture and perception. Students benefit from the collaborative expertise of the School of Arts and Sciences, alongside potential links to the Annenberg School of Communications and the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. This collaborative atmosphere allows for a nuanced exploration of visual neuroscience and aesthetics within a world-class research institution.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 63204 per year
National fee: USD 63204 per year
Local fee: USD 63204 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured through foundational stages and specialised concentration electives. Modules may include:

Eye, Mind, and Image
Form and Meaning
What is Visual Studies?
Perception
Visual Neuroscience
Aesthetics
Philosophy of Mind
Philosophy and Visual Perception
Senior Project

Careers with Visual Studies-Philosophy and Science of Seeing

Graduates of this programme are equipped for diverse professional paths that require a sophisticated understanding of visual communication and human perception. The interdisciplinary nature of the degree supports careers in research, digital media, and the arts. By mastering the science and philosophy of seeing, students are prepared for roles in industries where the analysis of visual information and image-based technology is essential.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Eye, Mind, and Image

Form and Meaning

What is Visual Studies?

Perception

Visual Neuroscience

The Rise of Image Culture: History and Theories

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-26 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-05 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

130

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TOEFL^® IBT

100

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IELTS

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Philadelphia, United States

Disciplines

Visual Arts Philosophy View 1635 other Bachelors in Visual Arts 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

130

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

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

Common Application or Coalition Application & Penn-specific Essay

Official High School Transcript

School Report

Counselor Recommendation

Academic Teacher Evaluations (2)

Early Decision Agreement (only if applying for Early Decision)

Mid-Year Report

Final Report

SAT or ACT

English language proficiency

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

63204 USD / year

≈ 63204 USD / year
Out-of-State

63204 USD / year

≈ 63204 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

63204 USD / year

≈ 63204 USD / year

Living costs

Philadelphia

United States

1313 - 2284 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 Visual Studies-Philosophy and Science of Seeing.

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

Philadelphia

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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