The 3+3 Philosophy and Law Program allows highly qualified and motivated the opportunity to earn both their Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Philosophy and their Juris Doctor (JD) degree in six years instead of the usual seven. Students complete three years of undergraduate study in philosophy before beginning law school; after successful completion of the first year of law school, students are awarded the Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy. This option provides an integrated pathway to the study and practice of law, combining philosophical training in reasoning, ethics, and justice with professional legal education.
Students majoring in Philosophy develop a comprehensive understanding of the history of philosophy and the central problems, methods, and traditions that define the discipline. The study of philosophy enhances a student’s capacity to apply philosophical reasoning to intellectual problems across diverse fields of study. Students examine enduring questions about existence, morality, knowledge, beauty, and justice. They explore issues such as the nature of God, the basis of moral obligation, the meaning of truth, and what it means to know. Through these inquiries, philosophy cultivates analytical, critical, and interpretive abilities, encouraging habits of reflection and clear self-expression.
The Philosophy major provides excellent preparation for professional and academic pursuits that demand rigorous reasoning, careful reading, and strong decision-making abilities. It offers a solid foundation for students planning careers in law, medicine, education, business, and public service. Philosophy majors consistently perform among the highest on the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) and the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT); they also succeed in management and executive roles that require the ability to assimilate complex information, analyze situations, and formulate sound judgments.
Political Science 3+3, B.A. Learning Outcomes
Degree Requirements
Institutional Degree Requirements
Program-Specific Degree Requirements: No more than 15 credits toward the major can be transferred into the program. Students must meet 90 credit hours by end of third year. Credits 60-90 must be met at YCP to meet the residency requirement of the college. Admission to law school is not guaranteed; students must still meet the admissions standards of participating law schools. If law school admission is not secured, 30 credits of free electives will need to be taken in the senior year to complete requirements for YCP’s Philosophy, B.A.
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