Overview

The Philosophy programme at University of California, Santa Cruz provides a rigorous academic framework for investigating fundamental questions regarding knowledge, reality, and morality. Students engage with a diverse curriculum that bridges traditional philosophical inquiries with contemporary developments in the social and natural sciences.

The department focuses on developing critical reasoning skills and the ability to identify complex objections to various claims. By studying both ancient and modern texts, undergraduates build a versatile foundation in the humanities that is applicable to numerous professional fields and academic disciplines.

Why Philosophy at University of California, Santa Cruz?

The university offers a distinctive environment where students can participate in the Humanities Excel Program, providing practical pathways to prestigious fellowships and editorial roles. This initiative helps bridge the gap between theoretical study and professional application, ensuring graduates can articulate the practical benefits of their degree.

Students benefit from a curriculum that integrates value theory and aesthetics, allowing for a multidisciplinary approach to the humanities. The department's commitment to relating classical questions to modern literature and science ensures that the education remains relevant in a rapidly changing global landscape.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 37602 per year
National fee: USD 37602 per year
Local fee: USD 16785 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Epistemology
Metaphysics
Value Theory
Ethics
Logic
Philosophy of Mind
Ancient Philosophical Texts
Modern Philosophical Texts

Careers with Philosophy

Graduates from this programme are well-equipped for diverse professional paths due to their strong foundations in reasoning and analytical thinking. Many alumni pursue successful careers in law, government service, and non-profit work, where critical evaluation and ethical decision-making are paramount.

The degree also prepares students for roles in emerging sectors such as technology ethics, software development, and city planning. Additionally, graduates often find opportunities in journalism, publishing, teaching, and social work, utilizing their advanced communication and research skills to excel in various industries.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Probability and Confirmation

Formal Methods in Philosophy

Epistemology

Metaphysics

Philosophy of Science

Philosophy of Social Sciences

Philosophy of Biology

Philosophy of Mind

Philosophy of Psychology

Faith and Reason

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-23 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-30 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Santa Cruz, United States

Disciplines

Philosophy View 998 other Bachelors in Philosophy in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

3.4

3.0 GPA For California residents

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

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TOEFL^® IBT

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IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

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AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

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98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

You must achieve a minimum GPA of 3.00 in the "a–g" courses.

Non-residents must earn a minimum GPA of 3.40.

Take the ACT Plus Writing or the SAT with Essay

The ACT Assessment plus the ACT Writing Test or the SAT with critical reading, mathematics, and writing scores from the same sitting.

Proof of English Proficiency

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

37602 USD / year

≈ 37602 USD / year
Out-of-State

37602 USD / year

≈ 37602 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

16785 USD / year

≈ 16785 USD / year

Living costs

Santa Cruz

United States

1710 - 2560 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Philosophy.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Santa Cruz

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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