Philosophy, BA


Become a better thinker by strengthening your foundational skills, such as reading comprehension, and by developing skills in reasoning and argument construction. Studying philosophy prepares you to answer moral and ethical questions that relate to a variety of careers.

Program Description

The BA in philosophy teaches students how to think well, which in turn lays the foundation for personal and professional success.

Philosophy students learn how to structure arguments, write precisely and clearly, and communicate their ideas in an orderly, persuasive and unambiguous way. Many philosophical texts are complicated, and philosophy courses teach students how to read, comprehend and summarize conceptually difficult material. In short, studying philosophy trains one to be a better, clearer thinker.

Coursework includes the major subfields of philosophy, such as metaphysics, epistemology and ethics, and electives that connect philosophy to other areas of inquiry, emphasizing the social relevance of philosophy.

In addition to the guidelines in the Concurrent Program Options section below, students interested in pursuing concurrent or second baccalaureate degrees in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences are advised to visit the college's website for more information and requirements.


Required Courses (Major Map)

Major Map

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Major Map on-campus archive

What if: See how your courses can be applied to another major and find out how to change your major.


At a Glance: program details

  • Location: Tempe campus, or online
  • Additional Program Fee: Yes
  • Second Language Requirement: Yes
  • First Required Math Course: MAT 142 - College Mathematics
  • Math Intensity: General program math intensity general




Admission Requirements

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.

Freshman Transfer International Readmission

Transfer Options

ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use the Transfer Map search to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.

ASU has transfer partnerships in Arizona and across the country to create a simplified transfer experience for students. These pathway programs include exclusive benefits, tools and resources, and help students save time and money in their college journey. Students may learn more about these programs by visiting the admission site: https://admission.asu.edu/transfer/pathway-programs.



Change of Major Requirements

A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.

Students should refer to https://changingmajors.asu.edu for information about how to change a major to this program.



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Career Outlook

Philosophy alumni are well prepared for leadership roles whatever path they take, whether it be in business, law, politics, medicine or education.

The analytical, rhetorical and writing skills developed through the study of philosophy provide ideal preparation for careers in a wide range of fields, including:

  • business
  • education
  • journalism
  • law
  • medicine
  • public service

Example Careers

Students who complete this degree program may be prepared for the following careers. Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for academic or clinical positions. Career examples include but are not limited to:

Business Intelligence Analyst


  • Growth: %
  • Median Salary*:
  Bright Outlook

Detective Sergeant


  • Growth: 1.1%
  • Median Salary*: $86,940

Editor


  • Growth: -7.3%
  • Median Salary*: $63,400

Intelligence Officer


  • Growth: 1.1%
  • Median Salary*: $86,940

Judge


  • Growth: 3.4%
  • Median Salary*: $141,080

Lawyer


  • Growth: 4.0%
  • Median Salary*: $126,930

Mediator


  • Growth: 7.7%
  • Median Salary*: $66,130
Green Occupation   Bright Outlook

Military Officer


  • Growth: %
  • Median Salary*:

Politician


  • Growth: 6.2%
  • Median Salary*: $33,200
  Bright Outlook

Software Developer


  • Growth: %
  • Median Salary*:
  Bright Outlook

* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).



Global Opportunities

Global Experience

With over 250 programs in more than 65 countries (ranging from one week to one year), study abroad is possible for all ASU students wishing to gain global skills and knowledge in preparation for a 21st-century career. Students earn ASU credit for completed courses, while staying on track for graduation, and may apply financial aid and scholarships toward program costs. https://mystudyabroad.asu.edu



Attend Online

ASU offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. Applicants may view the program description and request more information here.



Program Contact Information

If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.

  • 480/965-8364