国产剧麻豆剧

Philosophy, B.A.

Philosophy, B.A.

Program Overview

Explore meaning and examine life鈥檚 mysteries as you shape your future.

The Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy is ideal for students who enjoy asking stimulating questions and thinking critically within a dynamic community. Using disciplined philosophical practices, students will ask questions about the world and themselves, even questions for which there may be no easy answers. Philosophy builds strong skills like communication, critical analysis, and problem solving, which are valuable in a wide variety of careers.

In this program, you will delve into ideas that are interconnected with your daily life, including social relationships, media, science, and faith. 国产剧麻豆剧鈥檚 experienced faculty will share their expertise in a variety of key aspects of philosophy, including:

  • Philosophy of science
  • Theories of Justice
  • Structures of Power
  • Philosophy of Art
  • Logic
  • And more.
Headshot of Matthew Applegate

Spotlight

Matthew Applegate, Ph.D. (08)

Matthew Applegate, Ph.D. (08) has used his philosophy education to open opportunities to a variety of academic areas.

Read More

 

The Philosophy B.A. is a versatile major that can lead to great paths beyond undergrad, such as law school and education. Skills in critical analysis, problem solving, and navigating complex ideas will help you stand out in your graduate school or career of choice. In fact, philosophy majors consistently score better than nearly all other majors on graduate school admission exams and on the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT).

At just 34 units, the Philosophy B.A. also makes for an excellent double major and is complementary to most programs, like STEM, creative arts, psychology, political sciences, business, and more. With only three mandatory classes 鈥 Logic (PHL 2077), Plato and Aristotle (PHL 3001), and Descartes through Hegel (PHL 3002) 鈥 plus a capstone course, you have the flexibility to fulfill your major units studying whatever upper-division philosophy classes you鈥檙e interested in.

Whether you鈥檙e creative, counter-cultural, empathetic, or entrepreneurial, philosophy will open a world of opportunities for your personal and professional development.

At 国产剧麻豆剧, our philosophy program centers on three fundamental objectives:

  • Developing and mastering critical analyses of difficult texts.
  • Creative problem-solving skills and articulation of complex thoughts and ideas.
  • Preparing you to stand out in your graduate school or career of choice.

Course List

For information about the courses required for the Philosophy, B.A. program, view the 国产剧麻豆剧 Catalog. 

Start Application

Are you ready to take the next step to begin your 国产剧麻豆剧 journey? Whether you鈥檙e a high school senior, college transfer student, or international student, find out what we鈥檙e looking for in our applicants and how you can apply.

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Student Support

For most students, the transition into college life is one full of adjustments. There is the excitement of newfound freedoms, but also some uncertainty as you begin to make choices and take responsibility for your own future. 

At 国产剧麻豆剧, we鈥檙e committed to supporting you 鈥 academically, professionally, spiritually, personally 鈥 so that you may be successful both in your time as a student and beyond. That鈥檚 why we offer a holistic support system that focuses on your unique experiences, particular needs, and personal and professional goals 鈥 resulting from our deep concern for you, our student.

With a focus on authentic relationships and personalized attention, our goal is to help transform you so you can follow your calling in your own career and life.

Student Support

Perspectives Shared

Alum Emilie Anderson: Exploring Life鈥檚 Biggest Questions
Should I Major in Religious Studies or Philosophy?
Spiritual Practices: A Guide to Growth Through Daily Rhythms
Jordan and Katrina Frye: Sharing the Truth Behind a Sustainable Creative Practice

Nell Sweeden - Philosophy and Theology

Alumni Testimonials

"Professor Impact"
"Career Preparation "

Smee Hall Snapshots

Alum Emilie Anderson: Exploring Life鈥檚 Biggest Questions Emilie Anderson鈥檚 experience in 国产剧麻豆剧鈥檚 philosophy program helped her develop a sense of groundedness about herself and the world.
Should I Major in Religious Studies or Philosophy? Explore the similarities and differences between the Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies and the Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy majors at 国产剧麻豆剧. Discover
Spiritual Practices: A Guide to Growth Through Daily Rhythms Finding ways to connect to faith community and God are important rhythms in our lives. Check out this guide to daily spiritual practices.
Jordan and Katrina Frye: Sharing the Truth Behind a Sustainable Creative Practice Jordan and Katrina Frye returned to their alma mater in the spring to offer insight and wisdom to students following their career trajectories in art and music.
Christian Studies Class Explores Important Role of Women in the Church Learn about the 国产剧麻豆剧 School of Theology and Christian Ministry鈥檚 course on the history of women in the church.
A Historical Tour of 国产剧麻豆剧鈥檚 Stained Glass Windows Dr. David Strawn鈥檚 stained glass windows have graced 国产剧麻豆剧鈥檚 campus for decades, and bless generations of students each time they pass by.
9 Essential Spiritual Disciplines for the Ministry Student Spiritual disciplines are one of the main ways Christians can pursue spiritual formation. Here are 9 disciplines ministry students can practice to get closer to God. Discover
Professor Impact
"One of the coolest parts of Point Loma is that the professors are so relatable. They allow themselves to be known by you. They talk about what they do, their families, their character, their heart for the church, their academic studies. That鈥檚 how I found my call to ministry: just witnessing them and seeing how their character is so remarkable and seeing their calling to love Christ and the world changed my life"
Kevin Portillo Philosophy, Theology, and Christian Ministry B.A.
Career Preparation
"Philosophy gave me a lot of skills on how to think logically, reason, pick apart arguments, and an ability to be objective and just look at the facts in a way that other people weren鈥檛 as well equipped to do. I think that鈥檚 very helpful in my career as a lawyer because first and foremost, you鈥檙e analyzing the facts objectively, and trying to make a case from there, and I think I was very well equipped to view things objectively."
Paige Cavendish Philosophy B.A.

Career Opportunities

Philosophy is fundamental to understanding our shared history of humanity and how we interact within society. But what about making a career out of a philosophy degree?

The versatile set of skills you can develop by pursuing a degree in philosophy from 国产剧麻豆剧 will equip you for fields as varied as law, education, business, government, and journalism. What remains at the core of philosophy, however, is preparing you to be the connection point between the history of our species and our faith, beliefs, thoughts and actions today.

What can you do with a philosophy degree?

Many graduates of the philosophy program have gone on to work in industries such as marketing, education, church ministry, and nonprofits.

Some of the positions our graduates currently hold:

Postsecondary Teacher

Average annual salary: $88,960
Job growth outlook: 9% (Faster than average)

Postsecondary teachers instruct students in a variety of academic subjects beyond the high school level at colleges, professional schools, and universities like 国产剧麻豆剧. They plan courses and curriculum based on the area of study they are teaching. Additionally, they assess students鈥 progress by grading assignments, papers, exams, and other work

Necessary attributes and skills:

  • Possesses deep, specialized knowledge in their academic discipline
  • Designs and delivers engaging, effective lessons and course materials
  • Explains complex topics in accessible ways to diverse learners
  • Conducts original research and contributes to academic knowledge
  • Guides students鈥 academic growth and fosters a supportive learning environment

Marketing Managers

Average annual salary: $158,790
Job growth outlook: 6% (Faster than average)

Marketing managers create programs to facilitate interest in products or services. They work with art directors, advertising sales agents, and financial staff members to promote growth within their company. Marketing managers estimate and analyze the demand for products and services that an organization and its competitors offer. Additionally, they highlight and utilize markets that show promise for the organization鈥檚 products.

Necessary attributes and skills:

  • Develops and oversees campaigns aligned with brand and business goals
  • Crafts compelling messaging and visuals that engage target audiences
  • Analyzes market trends and campaign performance to guide strategy
  • Manages marketing teams and coordinates cross-functional collaboration
  • Ensures consistent brand voice across platforms and materials

Community and Social Service Specialists

Average annual salary: $56,520
Job growth outlook: 10% (Faster than average) 

Community and social services specialists help individuals in need find government and private assistance programs. They coordinate activities like community outreach and social service programs to engage the neighborhoods within their reach. Their clientele ranges from people with psychological or addiction problems to lower income families.

Necessary attributes and skills:

  • Supports individuals in accessing resources and navigating social services
  • Builds trust with diverse populations through compassionate care
  • Organizes community initiatives, outreach events, and service programs
  • Connects effectively with clients, agencies, and stakeholders
  • Addresses client needs with practical, tailored solutions

Lawyers

Average annual salary: $153,470
Job growth outlook: 6% (Faster than average)

Lawyers represent and guide individuals, government agencies, and companies both in private and public affairs. Lawyers must complete an undergraduate degree, a law degree, and must also typically pass a state鈥檚 written bar examination. When it comes to Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) and bar exams, philosophy degrees can help prepare a student to think in a way that brings success in these exams.

Necessary attributes and skills: 

  • Evaluates complex information to build strong legal arguments
  • Investigates case law and drafts clear, persuasive legal documents
  • Presents arguments effectively in court and communicates clearly with clients
  • Upholds legal standards and maintains client confidentiality and trust
  • Reviews legal documents and evidence with precision to avoid errors

Ethics Consultant

Average annual salary: $78,420
Job growth outlook: 5% (国产剧麻豆剧 as fast as average)

An Ethics Consultant advises organizations on ethical practices, helping them navigate complex moral, legal, and compliance challenges. They work in industries like healthcare, business, government, and academia鈥攄eveloping policies, conducting training, and offering guidance on ethical decision-making aligned with organizational values and societal expectations.

Necessary attributes and skills: 

  • Analyzes complex situations to provide sound ethical guidance and recommendations
  • Evaluates policies, practices, and dilemmas from multiple perspectives
  • Leads discussions and explains ethical principles to diverse audiences
  • Develops practical, integrity-based solutions aligned with organizational values
  • Ensures adherence to legal standards, codes of conduct, and best practices

Understanding who you are and developing your philosophical understanding to, in turn, make a difference in society

With a Philosophy B.A. from 国产剧麻豆剧, you will be prepared in your future pursuits whether it be law school, graduate school, or stepping into a community outreach position. Not only will you be a more articulate, creative, and critically thinking individual, but you will also gain a robust understanding of how these skills can be utilized for your aspirations and goals as a more informed and connected person to history and humanity. 

As philosopher Simone de Beauvoir said, 鈥淭he fact is that every concrete human being is always a singular, separate individual.鈥 How will you use your philosophy degree to discover the essence of your individuality and the opportunities for intersection with humanity? 

Take the first step and apply to 国产剧麻豆剧 today or get connected with one of our counselors here for additional support and to answer any questions you may have.

Department Faculty