Philosophy
220 Cowell College
(831) 459-2070
https://philosophy.ucsc.edu/
Programs Offered
Philosophy B.A.
Philosophy Minor
Philosophy Contiguous Bachelor's/Master's Pathway
Philosophy M.A.
Philosophy Ph.D.
Philosophy Designated Emphasis
Philosophy investigates fundamental questions about reality, knowledge, morality, minds, and meaning. Such questions include: What is the fundamental structure of reality? How do you know you’re not dreaming at this very moment? When are you morally responsible for your actions? What, exactly, is a human mind? And what is the meaning of life? Students of philosophy can pursue these questions through topics of historical, intellectual, social, political, and personal interest.
The programs offered by the Philosophy Department are designed to familiarize students with the central concepts and key debates in the core areas of contemporary philosophical thought, and with the works of the major figures in the history of philosophy. The department offers an undergraduate major and a minor. The philosophy major leads to a bachelor of arts (B.A.) degree in philosophy. The graduate program leads to the master of arts (M.A.) and doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees in philosophy.
The department also offers a combined B.A./M.A. pathway which makes it possible for certain well-qualified, highly motivated students to complete the requirements for both degrees in five years rather than the usual six.
Please see our planned course offerings for the current academic year on this page.