Skip to Main Content
California State University, Chico
College of Humanities and Fine Arts

Philosophy BA

${image.alt}
  • Program Type

    Undergraduate Major

  • Delivery Type

    On Campus

Request Information About This Program

Do people really have free will? Can artificial intelligence replace human interaction? Does the universe have a purpose? What is an ethical life? As a philosophy student, you’ll explore fundamental questions like these and many others.

That’s the point of a philosophy degree: Not to teach you what to think, but how. Students in this program learn to question things most people take for granted while engaging in deep discussions about reality, ethics, politics, and religion with a tight, encouraging group of peers.

Consider and evaluate new possibilities, question widely held ideas and discover how to think and express yourself clearly. You’ll be challenged and encouraged by your professors and peers in this major marked by curiosity, as you learn how to apply the time-tested wisdom of philosophy to the challenges of our emerging future.

Zanja Yudell speaks at the 32nd annual Student Research Competition

From Ancient Philosophy to AI

You’ll study great philosophers of both ancient and modern times while also sharpening your own perspective on topics that dominate today’s headlines in courses like “Philosophy and Video Games” and “Ethics of Artificial Intelligence.” Courses include work in politics, psychology, science, and more.

Philosophy student listens and writes notes

Flexible Thinking, Flexible Career

There are almost endless career opportunities that call for the skills you’ll learn in this degree. Your ability to think outside of the box, adapt to changing environments, and express yourself clearly will make you a prized employee. Philosophy majors enjoy the highest salary growth trajectory from job entry to mid-career and do very well on tests like the LSAT (for law school) and GMAT (for business school).

“
There’s a lot of room for discussion. My favorite part is talking to my classmates and professors and exchanging ideas.
Jacob Ortbal (Philosophy, ’23)

  • A Unique Opportunity to Grow

    With small class sizes, encouraging professors, weekly community events, and student clubs, you’ll have a unique opportunity to learn and grow.

  • PhD-Powered Education

    Our top-notch faculty have been trained in some of the country’s leading philosophy programs and hold PhDs from institutions such as Princeton University, Columbia University, and University of California, Berkeley. They’re here to engage with you—and coach you to become a better writer, thinker, and learner.

  • Active Learning

    Small classes mean you’ll get to know both your professors and classmates well. It’s not unusual for classroom discussions to continue long after class ends, and for even more engagement, you can join the Philosophy Club, participate in weekly Tea & Talk sessions, and attend lectures given by visiting scholars.

  • Find a Community

    Philosophy students don’t just think—they act, too. Join Chico MAP, one of 180 worldwide chapters of Minorities and Philosophy, to elevate the voices of students who have too often been ignored. Or join Phi Sigma Tau, the International Honor Society in Philosophy.

Discover Stories and More

Chico State Today
/

Related Programs