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Philosophy

About Philosophy at CSUSB

Philosophy explores some of the most important questions about life, existence, and meaning, while strengthening your ability to think clearly and critically evaluate ideas. 

A Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy is an excellent foundation for many career paths — from law, government, and business to journalism, education, and more. At CSUSB, you won’t just learn job-specific tasks; you’ll gain timeless skills in reasoning, communication, and problem-solving that prepare you for leadership in any field. 

Most importantly, you’ll learn how to analyze diverse perspectives and develop thoughtful, creative solutions to the complex challenges of our world.

Careers in Philosophy

Philosophy student

A background in philosophy opens doors to a wide variety of professions where clear thinking, strong communication, and problem-solving are essential. Career paths for philosophy graduates include:

  • Lawyer
  • Writer or journalist
  • Professor
  • Educator or teacher
  • Paralegal
  • Economist
  • Psychotherapist
  • Political scientist
  • Policy analyst

Many philosophy graduates also apply their skills in business, public service, and nonprofit leadership.

Sample Courses

Ethics

The nature of the meaningful life and its relation to concepts of right and wrong explored through various moral theories.

Moral Psychology

A survey of major themes central to the philosophical study of moral psychology, including moral motivation, emotions and moral judgment, moral reasoning, and character formation.

Early Modern Philosophy

Major philosophical developments in Western philosophy from c 1600 to1800. Figures examined may include: Descartes, Leibniz, Spinoza, Locke, Berkeley, Hume, Kant, Reid, Rousseau, Hobbes, Malebranche, Wollstonecraft, Newton, and Clarke.

Meet Professor Van Tu

Van Tu, associate professor of philosophy
Van Tu, associate professor of philosophy at CSUSB, emphasizes that success is not a one-size-fits-all path. Tu encourages her students to pursue philosophy on their own terms and to trust that their journeys, however non-linear, can lead to meaningful success.
—Van Tu

Opportunities for Students

As a philosophy major at CSUSB, you’ll have access to a variety of resources designed to support your success. You can connect with faculty through dedicated academic advising, join Phi Sigma Tau — the international honor society for philosophy — if you qualify, and take advantage of the Logic Lab, which offers both in-person and virtual support for your coursework.

Similar to Philosophy

With more than 50 undergraduate degress at CSUSB, we offer a variety of programs that reflect the Coyotes' passion for learning. Check out where your curiosity will take you at CSUSB.

Philosophy
Office Hours
Monday - Friday: 8:00 am-5:00 pm
Saturday - Sunday: Closed

Email the department administrative support coordinator, Lisa Ryden.
Lisa.Ryden@csusb.edu

Email Kaitlyn Creasy, Chair

kaitlyn.creasy@csusb.edu