Philosophy, B.A.

California Baptist University

Program Summary – Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy (B.A. in Philosophy)

The Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy (B.A. in Philosophy) program offers students a deep exploration of fundamental questions regarding existence, knowledge, ethics, and the nature of reality. Students are introduced to a wide range of philosophical traditions, critical thinking skills, and logical reasoning techniques that allow them to examine complex concepts from diverse perspectives. This program helps develop intellectual tools necessary for analyzing arguments, making reasoned decisions, and communicating effectively. Graduates are prepared for various careers in law, education, business, and public service, where advanced critical thinking and problem-solving abilities are highly valued.

Key Program Features:

• Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills – Emphasis on developing strong reasoning, argumentation, and problem-solving skills.
• Diverse Philosophical Traditions – Exposure to classical and contemporary philosophy, including Western, Eastern, and global traditions.
• Ethics and Moral Philosophy – Exploration of moral theory, ethical dilemmas, and the philosophical foundations of right and wrong.
• Philosophical Logic – Study of formal logic and reasoning, helping students understand and construct valid arguments.
• History of Philosophy – In-depth study of key philosophers and movements, including ancient Greek philosophy, Enlightenment thought, and modern philosophy.
• Interdisciplinary Approach – Connections between philosophy and other fields such as politics, science, religion, and literature.

Key Areas of Study:

1. History of Philosophy – Study of major philosophical movements, thinkers, and schools of thought, such as ancient Greek philosophy, existentialism, and analytic philosophy.
2. Ethics and Moral Philosophy – Examination of questions about right and wrong, justice, virtue, and the role of ethics in society and personal decision-making.
3. Logic and Critical Thinking – Learning formal logic, argument analysis, and how to evaluate reasoning in a structured way.
4. Metaphysics – Exploration of fundamental questions about reality, including the nature of being, existence, time, and space.
5. Epistemology – Study of knowledge, belief, justification, and the nature of truth.
6. Political Philosophy – Investigating ideas of justice, authority, rights, and the nature of the state and governance.
7. Philosophy of Science – Analysis of scientific methods, theories, and the philosophical implications of scientific discoveries.
8. Aesthetics and Philosophy of Art – Study of beauty, art, and aesthetic experience, including the value and purpose of art in human life.

Career Opportunities:

Graduates with a B.A. in Philosophy can pursue a variety of career paths, including:

• Lawyer – The logical reasoning and argumentative skills gained from philosophy are highly applicable in law, especially in fields like litigation and legal analysis.
• Educator – Teaching philosophy at high schools or as adjunct faculty at the university level.
• Writer or Journalist – Writing analytical or opinion pieces, focusing on ethics, politics, culture, or social issues.
• Public Policy Analyst – Developing policies or working with think tanks to address societal issues, applying philosophical principles of justice and ethics.
• Ethics Consultant – Advising organizations on ethical practices, particularly in industries like healthcare, business, and technology.
• Researcher – Conducting research in academic or think tank environments, focusing on philosophical topics or interdisciplinary studies.
• Business Strategist or Consultant – Applying critical thinking skills to solve complex business problems and advise companies on strategy.
• Nonprofit or Advocacy Work – Working in organizations that advocate for social change, using philosophical principles to guide actions toward justice and equality.