Philosophy – Associate in Arts for Transfer
The study of Philosophy helps one learn not what to think but how to think. It invites students to carefully analyze and thoughtfully respond to the fundamental ideas and concerns of the human experience: What is real? How can I know something is true? How should I behave? How should society be run? How do we achieve justice? The goal is to examine ourselves, our social context, our world, and the persisting questions regarding human thought and action. The AA-T in Philosophy requires the study of diverse and often competing belief systems. This is a challenging and exciting endeavor that can help us make sense of the events taking place in the world around us. The program also develops skills in analytical and critical thinking and writing that are excellent preparation for most professional and other careers, and is a particularly good foundation for the study of law.
The Associate in Arts in Philosophy for Transfer (AA-T) degree meets the lower division course requirements necessary for the California State University (CSU) system. Students completing the AA-T degree in Philosophy are guaranteed admission to the CSU system, but not necessarily to a particular CSU campus or major of their choice. Students should consult with a counselor for more information on university admission and transfer requirements.
To be awarded the Associate in Arts in Philosophy for Transfer degree, students must:
(1) Complete 60 semester units or 90 quarter units which are eligible for transfer to the California State University (CSU) system, including both of the following:
(A) The California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC)
(B) A minimum of 18 semester units or 27 quarter units in a major or area of emphasis, as determined by the community college district.
(2) Obtain a minimum grade point average of 2.0.
While a minimum of 2.0 is required for admission, some majors may require a higher GPA. Please consult with a counselor for more information.
Associate Degrees for Transfer (ADTs) also require that students earn a “C” or better in all courses required for the major or area of emphasis. A “P” (Pass) grade is also an acceptable grade for courses in the major if the course is taken on a Pass/No Pass basis.
Program Learning Outcomes
- Critically engage, and thoughtfully respond to, ideas and theories common in the field of philosophy.
- Apply major philosophical concepts from diverse intellectual traditions to complex issues of the 21st century.
- Articulate original analytical and critical ideas relevant to philosophical discourse.
Major Requirements
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Required Core | ||
| PHIL 010 | Introduction to Philosophy | 3 |
| or PHIL 065 | Introduction to Ethics | |
| PHIL 090 | Introduction to Logic | 3 |
| List A: Select one course from the following: | 3 | |
| Any CORE course not already used | ||
| History of Ancient and Medieval Philosophy | ||
| History of Modern Philosophy | ||
| Logic and Critical Thinking | ||
| List B: Select two courses from the following: | 6 | |
| Any List A course not already used | ||
| Development of Western Culture I | ||
| Development of Western Culture II | ||
| Comparative Religions | ||
| List C: Select one of the following: | 3 | |
| Any List A or List B course not already used | ||
| English Composition | ||
| Critical Thinking and Writing | ||
| Introduction to World Mythology | ||
| Introduction to Ethnic Studies | ||
| Introduction to World Literature | ||
Total Requirements
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Major Requirements | 18 | |
| General Education Requirements (Cal-GETC) 1 | 34 | |
| Transferable Electives (as needed to complete 60 units) | ||
| Total Units | 60 | |
- 1
Some GE courses may be double-counted within the major and will reduce the number of units. General electives may be needed to reach 60 units. Please consult with a counselor to determine which courses are applicable.