General Requirements
For an explanation of Arts & Sciences policies and procedures regarding Study Abroad, visit the Overseas Programs website. Typically credit can be transferred only from Washington University and WU-approved study abroad programs. This is to ensure that the academic quality of the overseas programs meets Washington University's standards. However, if there are sound academic reasons for attending a program that is not one of Washington University's programs, exceptions can be made by means of a Special Petition. Contact the Overseas Programs office for more information.
Philosophy majors are encouraged to continue studying philosophy if they study abroad. Courses taken abroad may count toward the major in one of two ways:
- If students attend one of the overseas Philosophy Department's programs, philosophy credits will transfer according to an established procedure.
- If students take philosophy courses as part of a different Washington University program OR as part of a program that has been approved as an exception, the course may count. You should consult the Undergraduate Advisor for Philosophy.
In all cases, it is vitally important that you bring back with you a copy of the syllabus, as well as lecture notes and all your written work for each philosophy course taken abroad to seek transfer credit toward the major.
Study Abroad Credit Transfer
Philosophy Major
Students who spend one semester in a study abroad program may receive up to six units toward the major for philosophy courses taken in an approved philosophy program. Students who spend a full year in a study abroad program may receive up to nine units toward the major. To apply for this credit, students must submit their written work for the courses taken abroad and copies of the reading lists or syllabi.
Normally, philosophy majors will be expected to satisfy their core distribution requirements for the major with courses taken at Washington University. However, when submitting their written work for the courses taken abroad, students may apply for three units of credit (one course) toward their distribution requirements, again subject to approval by the department.
Philosophy Minor
Students who spend one semester in a study abroad program may receive up to three units toward the minor for philosophy courses taken in an approved philosophy program. Students who spend a full year in a study abroad program may receive up to six units toward the minor. To apply for this credit, students must submit their written work for the courses taken abroad and copies of the reading lists or syllabi.
Normally philosophy minors will be expected to satisfy their core distribution requirements for the minor with courses taken at Washington University. However, when submitting their written work for the courses taken abroad, students may apply for three units of credit (one course) toward their distribution requirements, again subject to approval by the department.
The Application Process
- Pick one university
- Submit two letters of recommendation from previous professors to the Study Abroad program
- Work out a study plan for Study Abroad: You will need to work out beforehand the precise courses you will take
- Write a statement of Purpose
The Selection Process
- Philosophy approval (checks for appropriateness of "Study Plan," based on philosophy record)
- Overseas university approval (based on space available and transcript)
- Bear in mind that there are no guarantees that everyone will be admitted