Philosophy

The Philosophy undergraduate program at the University of California offers students a comprehensive exploration of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, reason, and reality. Designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and clear communication, the curriculum provides a broad foundation in philosophical ideas, theories, and historical developments across different cultures and periods. Students engage with key areas such as metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, political philosophy, and philosophy of science through a combination of rigorous coursework, engaging discussions, and independent research projects. The program emphasizes the importance of logical reasoning and argumentation, preparing graduates for diverse careers in law, education, public policy, technology, and beyond. Participants also have opportunities to explore specialized topics like philosophy of mind, ethics in technology, and existentialism, often collaborating with faculty on cutting-edge research. The program encourages interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from science, literature, and social sciences to address complex philosophical questions. With access to extensive academic resources, a vibrant intellectual community, and opportunities for internships and study abroad programs, students are well-equipped to pursue advanced degrees or enter the workforce with a solid foundation in philosophical inquiry. The philosophy program at the University of California aims to cultivate thoughtful, well-informed individuals capable of analyzing and solving real-world problems through philosophical reflection and rigorous reasoning.

The graduate program in Philosophy is a PhD program. However, the MA is a part of the PhD program and is awarded upon Advancement to Candidacy for the PhD. In addition to the graduate division requirements, the master’s degree candidate will take courses so that the total course work will satisfy the Course and Seminar Requirement of the PhD program.

Graduate Division thesis and examination requirements under Plan 1 and Plan 2 may be satisfied as follows.

Plan 1

A Qualifying Paper, as specified in the PhD Program requirements, that is passed at the PhD or MA level. (Usual choice of this department.)

Plan 2

A comprehensive examination in a major area of philosophy, administered by a committee selected by the Graduate Advisor.

Courses

• PHIL 296A. Seminar in Ethics
  • Graduate seminar in ethics. Specific subject matter is selected by the instructor and descriptions are available in the department office before each quarter.
• PHIL 297A. Seminar in the History of Philosophy
  • Graduate seminar in the history of philosophy. Specific subject matter is selected by the instructor and descriptions are available in the department office before each quarter.
• PHIL 222G. Theories of Justice
  • A study at the graduate level of an examination, in detail, of one or more influential philosophical theories of justice.
• PHIL 235G. Contemporary Philosophy
  • A study at the graduate level of selected topics in contemporary philosophy.
• PHIL 239G. Meta-ethics
  • An examination of problems concerning the meaning and justification of moral judgments.
• PHIL 251G. Pre-Socratics
  • A study at the graduate level of selected writings of the pre-Socratic era.
• PHIL 252G. Plato
  • A study at the graduate level of selected writings of Plato.
• PHIL 256G. Hellenistic Philosophy
  • A study at the graduate level of selected writings of the Hellenistic philosophers.
• PHIL 283G. Beginning Symbolic Logic
  • An introduction to symbolic logic at the graduate level.

Requirements

• Online application: https://www.graddiv.ucsb.edu/eapp
• Statement of Purpose, Personal Achievements/Contributions, and Resume or CV (submitted in the online application)
• Three Letters of Recommendation (submitted online)
• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended (submitted online)
• GRE General test scores
• TOEFL scores 550 Paper-Based Test (PBT), 80 Internet-Based Test (IBT) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System) Overall Band score of 7 or higher (only required if English is not the applicant's native language)
• Writing Sample (not to exceed 30 pages--submitted in the online application)
• Final/Official transcripts will be required for all applicants who are admitted and have indicated their intent to enroll at UC Santa Barbara by submitting a Statement of Intent to Register (SIR). UC Santa Barbara reserves the right to require official transcripts at any time during the admissions process, and rescind any offer of admission made if discrepancies between uploaded and official transcript(s) are found.

Scholarships

Fellowships

Fellowships are awarded for up to $18,000 plus fees, insurance, and tuition for the first year of study; two to six awarded per year.

Teaching Assistantships

These pay approximately $5,200 per quarter for a full assignment, and additionally cover tuition, insurance and most fees. Appointments are made for one, two, or three quarters per year. TAs assist in lower division classes such as Introduction to Philosophy, Critical Thinking, Introduction to Ethics, Biomedical Ethics, and sometimes in upper division classes, by holding discussion sections and grading papers and exams. Teaching Assistantships may also be available in other departments and programs of the University. They are normally given to students who have demonstrated promise in course work here. Our primary financial aid to first year students are the fellowships mentioned above.

Readerships

There is no specific number of readerships, as this depends on enrollments and the decision of the instructor whether or not to use a reader. Readerships pay about $14.00 per hour.

The University of California offers a comprehensive Philosophy program designed to explore fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, and reason. The program provides students with a rigorous curriculum that covers a wide range of philosophical disciplines, including metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, logic, and the history of philosophy. Students have the opportunity to engage deeply with classical texts from Plato, Aristotle, Kant, and other foundational philosophers, as well as contemporary philosophical debates and issues. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and clear communication, preparing graduates for careers in law, education, public policy, research, and other fields that require sophisticated reasoning abilities. Academic faculty involved in the Philosophy program are distinguished scholars who contribute to ongoing research and publish in leading journals, offering students mentorship and guidance. The curriculum often includes courses on the philosophy of science, philosophy of mind, political philosophy, and ethics, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals. Many undergraduate programs incorporate a capstone project or thesis, providing students with the opportunity to conduct original research under faculty supervision. The university supports students through various extracurricular activities, including philosophy clubs, lectures, seminars, and conferences, fostering a vibrant intellectual community. Students pursuing a degree in Philosophy at the University of California can expect to develop their analytical capabilities, ethical reasoning, and philosophical knowledge, equipping them with skills applicable across many professional domains. Internship and research opportunities are often available through partnerships with local institutions, think tanks, and academic conferences. Additionally, the program encourages interdisciplinary study, enabling students to combine philosophy with other disciplines such as cognitive science, political science, or religious studies. Graduates from the program often proceed to graduate studies or enter careers in law, journalism, public service, or academia. The philosophy program's overarching goal is to cultivate thoughtful, reflective individuals who can analyze complex issues and contribute meaningfully to society.