Degrees


 

B.A. Degree in Philosophy

Philosophy provides us with the tools discover, examine, and evaluate insights into the meaning of knowledge, personal identity, creativity, fundamental concepts, relationships, nature, the structure of institutions, policies, values, and beliefs.

This major serves as an excellent preparation for graduate study or a career in college teaching, law, bioethics, medicine, computer programming, culture studies, social sciences, or religious studies. Philosophy provides a strong foundation for careers in education, business, research, writing, or counseling.

The Philosophy department encourages and helps students to arrange double majors, especially with the departments of Art, Political Science, Business, English, and Religious Studies. Other double majors with philosophy can be arranged.

Courses Required for a B.A. Degree in Philosophy

Lower Division. One class from each of the following groups:

  1. Analytical Skills:
  2. Introductory Ethics:

Upper Division. At least ten are upper division courses in Philosophy. Students will select one of the following programs:

  1. Traditional Philosophy

    A program of study primarily for those interested in pursuing graduate study in Philosophy. Students must take at least:

    • Three courses (9 units) from area A (History of Philosophy)
    • Three courses (9 units) from area C (Logic, Metaphysics, Epistemology)
    • Two courses (6 units) from area B (Value Theory)
    • One course (3 units) from area D (Interdisciplinary Philosophy).
    • One elective course (3 units) from any of areas A, B, C, and D.

  2. Applied Philosophy

    A program of study primarily for those interested in fields where a background in Philosophy is particularly valuable, such as law, bioethics, business ethics, medicine, women's studies, or culture studies. Students must take at least:

    • Three courses (9 units) from areas B (Value Theory)
    • Three courses (9 units) from area D (Interdisciplinary Philosophy)
    • One course (3 units) from area A (History of Philosophy)
    • One course (3 units) from area C (Logic, Metaphysics, Epistemology)
    • Two elective courses (6 units) from any of areas A, B, C, and D.
  1. History of Philosophy:

  2. Value Theory:

  3. Logic, Metaphysics, and Epistemology:

  4. Interdisciplinary Philosophy:
    • PHI 162 Philosophy and Native Cultures (3)
    • PHI 165 Philosophy of Law (3)
    • PHI 169 Philosophy of Technology (3)
    • PHI 175 Philosophy of Film (3)
    • PHI 176 Philosophy of Literature (3)
    • PHI 178 Philosophy of Women (3)

Total Units in Philosophy: 36.

Plus general studies requirements and electives totaling 124 semester units, including foreign language requirement.

Independent Study Policy:

Independent studies are open to philosophy majors and minors who wish to explore an area of philosophy for advanced or specialized work. Any non-major wishing to do an independent study in philosophy must have a clearly defined goal and must confer with both the faculty member and the chair of the department to see if it is appropriate. Independent studies require independent research. Students are expected to meet the faculty member at least one hour per week, undertaking an equivalent amount of work that would be expected in a 3 credit course. Normally, independent studies are not intended to replace a course taught in the department. For details on what must be included in your petition for an independent study, please contact the Chair of the Philosophy department.


 


Minor in Philosophy

A minimum of 21 units in philosophy, 15 of which must be upper division, approved by the Philosophy department. This includes:

  1. At least one course from either History of Philosophy or Value Theory (groups A and B)
  2. At least one course from Logic, Metaphysics, and Epistemology or Interdisciplinary Philosophy (groups C and D).

Minors who wish to emphasize a particular area (such as Business Ethics, Bioethics, Aesthetics, or Social and Political Philosophy) are encouraged to contact the Chair of the Philosophy department for assistance.

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