Frequently Asked Questions

Philosophy investigates fundamental questions concerning human existence through critical reflection on our assumptions about the nature of reality, knowledge, and value, by developing theories of consciousness, mind, and self, by creating concepts to think clearly about ethics, justice and freedom, and by examining what it means to live a good life. 

A major or minor in philosophy empowers students to navigate the practical stakes of these questions by engaging with theories and texts from historical, global and contemporary philosophical fields. 

Develop sought-after and lasting skills that contribute to personal and professional success in any career: independent thinking, complex problem solving, confidence in grappling with ambiguity, ethical reasoning and clarity and precision in communication — these are the human skills that truly matter in our changing world.

Graduates are well prepared to pursue careers in a variety of fields where their reasoning and critical thinking skills, abilities to analyze complex problems, conceptual systems and texts and training in communicating with precision and clarity are valued. 

Philosophy majors go on to work in fields like law, business, government, public policy, education, consulting, counseling, media and communications, financial services, library services, information technology, ministry, the nonprofit sector and more. 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median, or midpoint, annual wage for someone with a bachelor’s degree in philosophy is $65,000.

According to the California State University Office of the Chancellor’s “Workbook: Labor Market Outcomes,” California State University (CSU) grads with a philosophy undergraduate degree have a median annual salary of $57,239, in the state of California within five years of graduation.

CSU grads with a philosophy graduate degree have a median annual salary of $64,290, in the state of California within five years of graduation.

Philosophy might be right for you if you are curious about fundamental questions concerning knowledge, value, the nature of the self and consciousness, justice, freedom, power and what it means to live well. Philosophy might be right for you if you want to understand how the ideas and values we presently hold have come to be and what theories and traditions have shaped the way we think about ourselves and the world. 

Philosophy is for students who want their education to be more than job training and who enjoy reading important texts carefully, reasoning clearly and thinking deeply.  

It is also a practical choice that prepares you for law, graduate school, business, public service, education and many other fields. Philosophy majors develop skills that hold their value no matter what direction your life takes. 

The philosophy program at Stan State currently offers a Bachelor of Arts in philosophy, a philosophy minor, an ethics minor and an applied philosophy concentration for students majoring in liberal studies. Philosophy also makes an excellent second major. 

Discover more about degree requirements and available concentrations by visiting our majors and programs page.

With a philosophy degree, you will develop strong critical thinking and reasoning skills. You will learn to read complex texts carefully, analyze arguments, and communicate ideas clearly in writing and discussion. You will gain a historical understanding of cultural traditions and examine how ideas about truth, morality and identity shape modern society. You will also learn to evaluate assumptions, question systems of power and explore the ethical and cultural challenges of living in a diverse world. These skills prepare you for graduate study and careers that demand clear reasoning, careful analysis and strong communication.

To find out which classes are available during the semester, please visit the class schedule webpage.

For descriptions of our course offerings and for a list of courses that may help fulfill GE course requirements, please visit the course catalogue and be sure to select the appropriate catalog year.  

Additional details regarding specific course sections are available via the University Canvas course management system. Students who are registered can access their designated course sections by logging into Canvas.

You will learn about significant events and figures from the past and explore diverse topics across different regions and time periods, like ancient civilizations, world wars, social movements and political systems. You will also learn how to analyze primary sources, develop critical thinking skills, research methodologies and effective writing, all while honing your ability to interpret and synthesize information from various perspectives.

Check out our resources page to learn more about internship opportunities.

You can explore internship opportunities through the following avenues: 

• Visit the Stanislaus State Service Learning (S4) website to browse opportunities in and around Turlock, CA. 

• Explore internship listings on the California Intern Network/University Enterprises Inc. platform, offering opportunities related to your specific interests across California. 

• Directly apply for or propose internships with other organizations. 

The general education curriculum is designed to provide students with a well-rounded education, fostering knowledge, skills and values that prepare students to be informed and engaged citizens. It covers five subject areas: communication skills, natural sciences and mathematics, humanities, social sciences and individual resources for modern living. For a detailed list of the GE curriculum, please refer to the University Catalog.

To be evaluated for graduation, a student must declare a major. The University recommends declaring a major once you’ve earned 60 units to ensure you stay on track with your academic goals.

To apply to Stanislaus State, visit the undergraduate admissions page for admissions information. For graduate admission details, please visit the graduate admissions page.