Explore the questions that matter. Think across disciplines.
A Minor in Philosophy gives students the intellectual tools to examine fundamental questions while pursuing their own interests. After establishing a foundation in introductory philosophy, students can select courses in areas that interest them most, from the philosophy of mind and artificial intelligence to political philosophy, ethics, and the philosophy of science.
Big Questions You Can Explore
- Mind and Technology. Can a synthetic system ever achieve genuine consciousness, or can it only simulate intelligence?
- Scientific Discovery. Are there universal rules of discovery, or does every major breakthrough rely on breaking established rules?
- Science and Society. Can complex human behaviors be predicted using the same universal laws as physics?
- History of Ideas. How did ancient concepts of virtue transform into modern ideas of individual rights?
- Politics and Society. What gives a government legitimate authority over an individual’s personal liberty?
- Ethics and Value. Do non-human animals, ecosystems, or future generations have rights that obligate us today?
Because philosophy engages with fundamental questions across many fields, the minor is a natural complement to a degree in almost any discipline. Students from all departments are welcome to apply, and no prior philosophy courses are required.
Admission and Application
Students interested in the Minor in Philosophy should consult Bilkent University’s Minor Programs page for the application form, eligibility requirements, and university regulations.
Under the university’s general minor-program regulations, applicants must have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.00 and must apply between their third and fifth semesters.
Spring 2027 application deadline:
The required application form can be completed and signed electronically. Please email the completed form to phil@bilkent.edu.tr by the deadline.
Important: Please include a copy of your latest academic transcript with your application.
Minor Curriculum
The minor consists of three required philosophy courses and three electives, allowing students to develop both a philosophical foundation and a more specialized area of interest.
| Code | Course Name | Hours | Credit | ECTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHIL 103 | Introduction to Philosophy I | 3 | 3 | 5 |
| PHIL 104 | Introduction to Philosophy II | 3 | 3 | 5 |
| PHIL 201 | Epistemology | 3 | 3 | 5 |
| — | Electives (3 courses) | — | 9 | — |
For current curriculum details, see the Online Academic Catalog