Philosophy and Biology Polymath Pathway
- Bachelor of Art (BA)
- Polymath Pathway
Modes of study:
Where life science meets life’s biggest questions
The Philosophy and Biology Polymath Pathway at the University of Southern Maine (USM) is designed for students wanting to pair scientific inquiry with ethical reasoning and philosophical depth. By combining philosophy and biology, you’ll be uniquely prepared for fields where science and society meet – shaping the future of fields such as medical ethics, genetic counseling, hospital administration, biomedical research, and health policy.
This integrated approach develops lab skills, ethical reasoning, and analytical thinking preparing you to navigate emerging questions in healthcare, biotechnology, and the environment. Medical schools and graduate programs value applicants who combine scientific expertise with a humanistic perspective, and this Polymath Pathway positions you to succeed in roles requiring biological knowledge and philosophical inquiry.
Academic catalog
The University of Southern Maine’s engaging curriculum offers an integrative and rigorous liberal arts and STEM education.
Browse course list
Program duration
Typically completed in 4 years. This Polymath Pathway requires 126 credit hours for graduation. Work with your academic advisor at USM to develop a streamlined and tailored academic plan.
Admissions
SAT and ACT scores are optional. Students are encouraged to begin Polymath Pathways in their first year.
Why combine Philosophy and Biology together?
The future will be full of ethical decisions about new technologies, organ donation, stem cell research, and more. Having dual majors in biology and philosophy makes you the person best able to navigate these difficult issues and recommend steps that are both scientifically sound and ethical. By harnessing philosophy’s historical perspective to science’s future-forward ambitions, you will be well-prepared and positioned for dynamic careers in healthcare, environmental science, biotechnology, and beyond.
Why study Philosophy?
Philosophy at USM provides you with a toolbox filled with tools you’ll need to think critically and argue persuasively across complex and divisive topics. Grounded in historical awareness of how values have changed over time, you’ll learn how to dissect arguments, identify assumptions, and create logical frameworks that apply across all disciplines.
Whether you’re evaluating the ethics of a policy proposal, working through a dilemma in the workforce, or contributing to a community platform, having a foundation in philosophy sharpens your reasoning and communication skills.
Why study Biology?
As a biology student at USM, you’ll gain the scientific foundation necessary to understand living things and the natural world. USM has exceptional opportunities for well-funded hands-on experiences on-campus and off-campus internships nearby in biomedical and biotech settings. Through hands-on learning, faculty mentorship, and development of strong research, laboratory, and analytical skills, you’ll build the technical expertise and empirical reasoning valued in graduate programs, medical school, and research-focused careers.
Why should you consider applying for the University of Southern Maine’s Polymath Program in Philosophy and Biology?
Where can you go with a Polymath Pathway?
Broaden your career options
Broader education perspectives at USM translate into diverse career offerings. Whether you’re interested in medical school, science and research policy, law, communications, or education – the Philosophy and Biology Polymath Pathway offers you a unique core starting point towards countless opportunities.
We’re here to help answer questions about costs
Are you a New England resident?
New England residents may be NEBHE eligible with this program, meaning a reduction in your tuition rate.
Wondering about scholarships?
If you’re concerned about affording your education, you may want to look into scholarship and financial aid options. You’re automatically considered for a Merit Scholarship if you apply for admission by the deadline. There are also other scholarship options available.
A unique Maine advantage for medical school with the Tufts Maine Track MD
USM graduates can apply to the Tufts University School of Medicine Maine Track — a community‑focused MD pathway in partnership with MaineHealth Maine Medical Center that combines Boston classroom training with immersive clinical experience in Maine communities.
Next steps
Our undergraduate admissions counselors are here to answer your questions about the admissions process, our academic programs, and student support services.
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