Philosophy

The discipline of philosophy is a fundamental course of study for all college students. Philosophy courses explore enduring human concerns regarding the nature of knowledge, reality, the mind, and values. Students are trained to understand and analyze classic philosophical texts as well as to think critically about contemporary issues relating to social justice, human rights, the environment, technology, art, and religion. Philosophy courses help to instill lifelong habits of questioning, analyzing, and exploring alternative viewpoints. The study of philosophy also develops critical reading, writing, and thinking skills that are crucial for success at the university level. The overall mission of this program is to aid students in developing the requisite knowledge and skills to excel upon transfer to the CSU and UC systems.

DEGREES & CERTIFICATES

Philosophy, Associate in Arts for Transfer (AA-T)

View all LBCC’s Programs of Study and Curriculum Guides
(New students need to refer to the current academic year for the most up-to-date info)

CAREER INFO

A philosophy degree is an excellent preparation for a wide variety of careers due to its focus on critical reading, thinking, analysis, and writing. Philosophers have the unique ability to assess situations and offer solutions from multiple perspectives.

POTENTIAL JOBS

• Business Professionals
• College Professor
• Community Action Leaders
• Computer Programmer
• Data Analyst
• Demographer
• Editors and Copy Writers
• Human Rights/Social Justice Advocacy
• Humanitarian Efforts
• Information Technology Professionals
• International or National Public Health Professionals
• International Affairs Professionals
• Labor Organizer
• Lawyer

• Lobbyist
• Management Consultant
• Management Organizational Development
• Management Training Professionals
• Market Researcher
• Policy Analyst
• Program Coordinator
• Program Director
• Public Relations Specialist
• Research Analyst
• Social Impact Assessment
• Statistician
• Survey Researcher Analyst
  

To explore potential jobs in this field of study, we strongly urge you to visit LBCC Career Center. Working with a career counselor, we will assess your strengths, skills, interests, and accomplishments to help you identify internship opportunities and career goals that match your educational and professional needs.

FAQ

What is philosophy?

Philosophy is the study of reality, knowledge, and values.

What Philosophy courses are offered at LBCC?

• Critical Thinking
• Feminist Philosophy
• History of Ancient Philosophy
• History of Modern Philosophy
• Intro to Ethics
• Intro to Existentialism
• Intro to Issues in Philosophy

• Intro to Logic
• Intro to non-western philosophy
• Intro to Political Philosophy
• LGBTQIA+ Philosophy
• Philosophy of Religion
• Psychology & Religion
• Symbolic Logic

Is there a Philosophy club on campus?

Yes, and there are also the following clubs related to philosophy:

• Queerspace
• The Feminist Club
• The Role Playing Game Club

What can I do with a degree in Philosophy?

Students who earn degrees in philosophy can work in any of the fields listed under career opportunities. Students may also continue their education in philosophy, go to law school, or go to business school. The skills that you learn by earning a philosophy degree, such as critical reading, thinking, analysis, and writing, can be applied to most fields.

Should I take the Philosophy courses in any particular order?

While there is a program map for taking the philosophy classes, none of the philosophy classes have prerequisites and they can be taken in any order.

What application does logic have?

One application of logic is the programming of computers. Any time that you use a computer, someone who has logic skills was doing the work that allows you to work with the computer. If you enjoy the material in logic class, you can pursue a career in computer programming.

Why study Ethics?

An ethics class will teach you ways to look at what is right or wrong, and who is a good or bad person, for instance. It will also examine views that might prevent one from engaging in a rational ethical discussion.