Philosophy, B.A.

Philosophy, B.A.

Program Overview

Explore meaning and examine life’s 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. PLNU’s 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.

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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 — Logic (PHL 2077), Plato and Aristotle (PHL 3001), and Descartes through Hegel (PHL 3002) — plus a capstone course, you have the flexibility to fulfill your major units studying whatever upper-division philosophy classes you’re interested in.

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

At PLNU, 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 PLNU Catalog. 

Course Information

Major Map

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Are you ready to take the next step to begin your PLNU journey? Whether you’re a high school senior, college transfer student, or international student, find out what we’re 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 PLNU, we’re committed to supporting you — academically, professionally, spiritually, personally — so that you may be successful both in your time as a student and beyond. That’s why we offer a holistic support system that focuses on your unique experiences, particular needs, and personal and professional goals — 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’s 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

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Videos (1)
Articles (7)
Quotes (2)
Pictures (3)
Nell Becker (02) Sweeden has learned that embracing one’s calling involves a continual process of discernment throughout life.
Alum Emilie Anderson: Exploring Life’s Biggest Questions Emilie Anderson’s experience in PLNU’s philosophy program helped her develop a sense of groundedness about herself and the world. Discover
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 PLNU. 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. Discover
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. Discover
Christian Studies Class Explores Important Role of Women in the Church Learn about the PLNU School of Theology and Christian Ministry’s course on the history of women in the church. Discover
A Historical Tour of PLNU’s Stained Glass Windows Dr. David Strawn’s stained glass windows have graced PLNU’s campus for decades, and bless generations of students each time they pass by. Discover
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’s 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’t as well equipped to do. I think that’s very helpful in my career as a lawyer because first and foremost, you’re 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 PLNU 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?

Ethics Consultant

An Ethics Consultant advises organizations on ethical practices, helping guide decision-making, policy development, and corporate responsibility in complex situations. They analyze moral, legal, and social implications of business or organizational actions to ensure integrity and compliance. Ethics Consultants can work for corporations, non-profits, government agencies, or as independent advisors, with opportunities across industries such as healthcare, finance, law, and technology.

  • Median Pay: $78,420/year
  • Number of Jobs: 403,900
  • Job Outlook (2023–2033): +5%
  • Employment Change: +21,900 jobs
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Community and Social Service Specialists

A Community and Social Service Specialist connects individuals and communities with resources and programs that support well-being, social development, and quality of life. They assess needs, provide guidance, and coordinate services to address issues such as mental health, housing, or employment. Community and Social Service Specialists can work in non-profits, government agencies, healthcare organizations, schools, or as independent consultants, with opportunities in social work, community development, and advocacy.

  • Median Pay: $78,240/year
  • Number of Jobs: 199,500
  • Job Outlook (2023–2033): +8%
  • Employment Change: +16,400 jobs
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Philosophy and Religion Teachers

Philosophy and Religion Teachers at the postsecondary level educate students on philosophical concepts, ethical reasoning, and religious traditions, fostering critical thinking and intellectual exploration. They develop and teach courses, conduct research, and mentor students in academic and ethical development. These educators can work at colleges, universities, seminaries, or research institutions, with opportunities in teaching, scholarship, and academic leadership.

  • Median Pay: $83,980/year
  • Number of Jobs: 1,397,600
  • Job Outlook (2023–2033): +8%
  • Employment Change: +111,400 jobs
View Full BLS Profile

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

With a Philosophy B.A. from PLNU, 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, “The fact is that every concrete human being is always a singular, separate individual.” 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 PLNU today or get connected with one of our counselors here for additional support and to answer any questions you may have.

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