Why this Bachelor in Philosophy?
- To learn how to think, not just what to think
Studying philosophy is essential for developing critical and analytical thinking. This is one of the key features that distinguishes philosophy among other disciplines. During the Bachelor in Philosophy, students learn to master argumentative and abstract skills, and they acquire strong written and communicative skills. These so-called soft skills are highly transferable and valuable across many different contexts, and they are increasingly appreciated in the job market. - For the quality of the teaching staff
The quality of teaching is ensured by the presence of internationally renowned professors, who are among the leading experts in their respective fields. Students have the opportunity to interact with prominent philosophers from top European universities, including Francesco Berto, Anna Marmodoro, Kevin Mulligan, Peter Simons, Costantino Esposito, Adriano Fabris, and many others. - For the unique student–faculty interaction
A defining feature of our Bachelor in Philosophy is the close interaction between students and professors. Students receive personal guidance and feel engaged by their lecturers. The excellent lecturers/students ratio (around 20 students per class) ensures direct dialogue and personal interaction. Active student participation is also encouraged through a variety of teaching methods that foster philosophical debate: from traditional lectures to seminars where students present their work and receive detailed feedback. - To gain a comprehensive philosophical education
The wide-ranging curriculum spans from ancient philosophy to cutting-edge debates, from Heidegger to analytic metaphysics, from ethics to logic, from aesthetics to political philosophy—and much more. Students receive a thorough and balanced education across different traditions and areas of philosophy, with the freedom to personalize their path through a broad selection of elective courses. - To be part of a vibrant philosophical community
The Bachelor in Philosophy is one of the programmes offered at the Institute of Philosophy (ISFI) in Lugano, which also hosts a Master in Philosophy (MAP, since 2017) and a doctoral programme (since 2022). Despite its being relatively new, the MAP is already recognized as one of the top programmes of its kind, attracting students from all over the world. This has helped developing an active, international philosophical community. Bachelor and Master’s students jointly founded Ratio, the philosophy student association, which organizes events and activities throughout the year. These complement the many initiatives—conferences, workshops, and public events—hosted at ISFI as part of its numerous ongoing research projects. All this makes the Bachelor in Philosophy an exciting opportunity to join a young, dynamic intellectual environment. - For its interdisciplinary teaching offer
In addition to the track completely in philosophy, several interdisciplinary minors are available—ideal for students who wish to broaden their career options or who are unsure about continuing with a Master in philosophy:- Philosophy and Communication
- Philosophy and Economics
- Philosophy and Literature
- Philosophy and Mathematics and Programming
- Philosophy and Theology
- For its international nature
In addition to welcoming lecturers from top-ranked European universities, our Bachelor includes philosophy courses taught in English by native-speaking professors. To further improve their language skills, students can also take language courses, obtain language certifications, and choose to write their essays and final thesis in English. This is an invaluable opportunity for those aiming to continue with a competitive international Master, as well as for those pursuing careers outside academia. - For its care for the students’ career paths
Our Bachelor in Philosophy is designed to foster its students’ career opportunities. During their studies, students receive tailored tutoring, both for their academic growth and in preparation for their life after graduation. Thanks to its focus on research, the Bachelor prepares its student to continue their studies in the best Masters in Philosophy. Students are constantly encouraged to develop their philosophical writing and argumentation skills, learn how to present their works, and participate in conferences and events organized by the Institute of Philosophy. At the same time, the programme also stands out for its care to career prospects, offering interdisciplinary minors that open up broader career opportunities and facilitate entry into the Swiss job market.