In order to obtain the Degree of Bachelor of Philosophy in the Salesian Pontifical University (UPS) in Rome, the candidate must complete the following courses (see the details in the next chapters).

  • The Fundamental Compulsory Courses, which include History of Philosophy Courses (for a total of 24 credits/40 ECTS[1]), Systematic Philosophy Courses (for a total of 43 credits/67 ECTS), and African Philosophy Courses (for a total of 6 credits/10 ECTS). The total number of ECTS is of 73 credits/117.
  • Other Courses, that includes Complementary Compulsory Courses (for a total of 10 credits/16 ECTS), which are those courses of different kinds that are strictly required for a Pontifical Degree in Philosophy, Philosophy Courses (for a total of 10 credits/16 ECTS), and Human Sciences Courses (for a total of 11 credits/17 ECTS). The total number of credits and of ECTS is respectively of 31 and 49.
  • The Final Examination includes the Long Essay Defence (5 credits/8 ECTS) and Bachelor Examination (4 credits/6 ECTS) for a total of 9 credits/14 ECTS.

There are other courses included in the curriculum of the Institute are compulsory in order to be granted the Degree of Bachelor of Philosophy from UPS, though they are not strictly necessary for it according to the Holy See and will not enter the final grade evaluation. The reason for this clear distinction is that the Holy See demands clarity and transparency insofar as the curriculum associated with the acknowledged Pontifical title is concerned.

Theological courses aim at a basic theological formation, which is important for all those who want to study philosophy within a Christian and specifically Catholic context. As a Salesian centre of studies with the primary goal of the formation of young Salesians, Don Bosco Institute of Philosophy feels the need to complement the philosophical formation with some other formation more consistent with the educative aspect of our charism. Three courses dealing with youth pastoral ministry will be requested of all students, while some others, which are more specifically Salesian, will not have to be attended by non-Salesian students (they are seminars/courses held outside school year). Other courses and seminars to be held in February are to complement the general education and formation.

 

[1] ECTS stands for European Credit Transfer System, which includes not only the class hours for each course, but also the number of working hours necessary after class to acquire a sufficient knowledge of the subject. Each ECTS means that the course needs 25 working hours by the student, including class hours. For example, a course of two credits (class hours) will need 50 working hours of personal study for a proper understanding. The relationship between credits and ECTS is as follows: 1 credit = 2 ECTS; 2 credits = 3 ECTS; 3 credits = 5 ECTS; 4 credits = 6 ECTS; 5 credits = 8 ECTS; 6 credits = 10 ECTS.