Overview

The Philosophy undergraduate programme at the University of California, Santa Barbara provides students with a robust foundation in critical thinking and analytical reasoning. Students can choose between two specialised tracks: the Core Philosophy Track or the Ethics and Public Policy Track. This flexible structure allows learners to tailor their education toward academic research or professional careers in law and government.

Why Philosophy at University of California, Santa Barbara?

The department offers a unique dual-track system designed to meet diverse student goals. The Core Philosophy Track is ideal for those seeking rigorous training for graduate-level study, focusing on major historical figures and central philosophical issues. Alternatively, the Ethics and Public Policy Track serves those interested in the moral and legal challenges facing modern society, making it an excellent choice for future legal or medical professionals.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 14934 per year
National fee: USD 14934 per year
Local fee: USD 14934 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum requires a minimum of 48 units, with a strong emphasis on upper-division coursework and symbolic logic. Modules may include:

Symbolic Logic
Ethics
Theory of Knowledge
Philosophy of Language
Philosophy of Mind
Metaphysics
History of Philosophy
Social and Political Philosophy
Philosophy of Law

Careers with Philosophy

Graduates from the University of California, Santa Barbara are well-prepared for a variety of professional pathways. The analytical skills developed during the programme are highly valued in sectors such as law, government, and medicine. Students focusing on the Ethics and Public Policy track often transition into roles involving community responsibility and legal problem-solving. Additionally, the Core Philosophy track provides the necessary academic background for those pursuing advanced research and teaching positions within higher education.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Ethics

Philosophy of Mind

Philosophy of Science

Political Philosophy

History of Philosophy

Punishment and Responsibility

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-23 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 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 Barbara, United States

Disciplines

Philosophy View 994 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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IELTS

6.5

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Other requirements

General requirements

You may either meet minimum requirements for the International Baccalaureate or British Systems:

International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma: You must take a minimum of six IB exams, with three exams taken at the higher level. The overall average must be 5 with no exam score below 4 and be awarded the diploma with a score of 30 or higher.

British Systems (GCSE/GCE Examinations): You must complete at least five GCSE/IGCSE (O-Level) exams with a 3.4 GPA or higher and at least three GCE (A-Level) exams with a 3.0 (unweighted) GPA or higher and no grade below C to be considered for admission.

Or meet minimum requirements for your country

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

14934 USD / year

≈ 14934 USD / year
Out-of-State

14934 USD / year

≈ 14934 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

14934 USD / year

≈ 14934 USD / year

Living costs

Santa Barbara

United States

1640 - 2480 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 Barbara

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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