Philosophy banner
Career & Academic Pathways >> Social Science
Contact Information
Todd Bernard Weber (Department Chair)
(831) 646-4116
tweber@mpc.edu
For Additional Info
• Download our Info Sheet
• Visit MPC Philosophy
• Connect with a Counselor 

Program Overview

Philosophy is the study of “big questions,” from the fundamental nature of existence to the meaning of love. The Philosophy program exposes students to historical and contemporary discussions in epistemology, metaphysics, and moral theory in both the Western and Eastern traditions. The program develops students’ reasoning and writing skills, models rational discussion of basic questions, and teaches both formal and informal methods of reasoning.

Job Outlook

Philosophy students learn to interpret complex materials, explore multiple perspectives, and communicate logically and clearly — all valuable workplace skills. CEOs, from the founder of Slack to past presidential candidate Carly Fiorina, were philosophy majors. Philosophy graduates’ skills align so well with the legal profession that some universities offer philosophy majors geared to pre-law students. Others pursue graduate theological study and enter the clergy, while teaching is popular for those who undertake advanced degrees.

Potential Careers

*Ministers & Pastors 
(may require additional training)

$31,210 - $93,090

Paralegals & Legal Assistants
(may require additional training)

$35,220 - $87,840

*College Philosophy Instructors
(may require additional training)

$31,540 - $82,820

*Lawyers
(may require additional training)

$50,860 - $196,070

*Judges
(may require additional training)

$58,150 - $163,890

MPC Degrees and Certificates

  • Philosophy - Associate in Arts for Transfer (AA-T)

Suggested Course Sequence (AA-T)

Year 1

FALL
 UNITS
 SPRING UNITS
ENGL 1A
 3

PHIL 4

 3

MATH 10 or 16

 4

PHIL 6

 3

Area A1

 3

Area B1 & B3

4

PHIL 2

 3

HIST 4

 3

Elective

 1

CSU Elective

 2
   PERS 10 rec.         
Elective  1    
    LIBR 50 rec.      
       
Total Fall Units
 15
 Total Spring Units
 15

Year 2

FALL
 UNITS
 SPRING UNITS

PHIL 8, 10, or 13

 3

Area C1

 3

HIST 5

 3

Area D

 3

Area B2

 3

    US-2 & 3 Course rec.

CSU Elective

 3

Area E

 3

   US-1 Course rec.

   HUMA 10 rec.

  

CSU Elective

 3

CSU Elective

 3
    CSU Elective 3
       
Total Fall Units
 15 Total Spring Units 15

This is a suggested sequence of coursework and is one pathway for students to earn their degree/certificate. This is not an official educational plan. A counselor is able to assist you with creating a personalized education plan based on your academic, career, and personal goals. For more information about counseling and up-to-date program requirements, please visit www.mpc.edu/counseling. 

Testimonials 

Sarah Berg

I received a high quality education at MPC and had access to helpful professors who wanted to see me succeed. I was able to take courses that satisfied my major requirements and allowed me to transfer with ease..