Program Overview

An Associate in Arts in Philosophy for Transfer (AA-T) from Skyline College is intended for students who are interested in transferring to a California State University (CSU) campus with a major in Philosophy, or similar major. Philosophy degrees are often preparation for post-graduate studies in Philosophy, Law, and other disciplines. The study of Philosophy develops a well-rounded appreciation of the history of ideas and the rich tapestry of intellectual traditions from various cultures, and it provides excellent training in argument analysis and critical thinking.

Students completing an AA-T degree are guaranteed admission to the CSU system, but not to a particular campus or major. Students transferring to a CSU campus that accepts the AA-T will be required to complete no more than 60 units after transfer to earn a bachelor's degree. This degree may not be the best option for students intending to transfer to a particular CSU campus or university or a college that is not part of the CSU system. Students should consult with a Skyline College counselor for further information on university admissions and transfer requirements. A grade of "C" or better, or "Pass" if the course is taken on a Pass/No Pass basis, is required for each course applied to the major. Major course requirements may also be applied to meet general education requirements.

To earn an AA-T degree, students must meet the following requirements:

  1. Complete a minimum of 60 CSU transferable units;
  2. Earn a minimum grade point average (GPA) of at least a 2.0 in all CSU transferable coursework;
  3. All courses in the major must be completed with a grade of "C" or better. A "P" (Pass) grade is also an acceptable grade for courses in the major if the course is taken on a Pass/No Pass basis. Students should consult with their counselor before enrolling in a major course on a Pass/No Pass basis, as some CSUs may have limitations on which major courses can be taken on a Pass/No Pass basis.
  4. Certified completion of the California State University General Education-Breadth (CSU GE Breadth) or the Intersegmental General Education Curriculum (IGETC) pattern.
  5. A minimum of 12 units must be completed in residence at Skyline College.

Advising Note: Students planning to transfer to a CSU (California State University) campus MUST complete an Oral Communication (COMM) course (CSU Minimum Admissions Requirement). Oral Communication courses are noted in the following GE areas: CSU GE (Area A1) or IGETC (Area 1C).

Note: Students do not need to complete the Skyline College Associate Degree requirements. For further information, please consult a Skyline College counselor.

Program Requirements

Required Core (6 units): Units
PHIL 100 Introduction to Philosophy May be taken as PHIL 100 Honors 3 units
OR
PHIL 240 Introduction to Ethics May be taken as PHIL 240 Honors 3 units
AND
PHIL 103 Critical Thinking 3 units
OR
PHIL 200 Introduction to Logic 3 units
LIST A: Select one, or any Required Core not already used (3 units) Units
PHIL 160 History of Western Philosophy: Ancient and Medieval 3 units
PHIL 312 Introduction to Philosophy of Religion 3 units
LIST B: Select two or any LIST A course not already used (6 units) Units
HIST 100 History of Western Civilization I 3 units
HIST 101 History of Western Civilization II 3 units
PHIL 320 Asian Philosophy 3 units
LIST C: Select one, or any LIST A or B course not already used (3 units) Units
PHIL 280 Introduction to Political Philosophy 3 units
OR
PLSC 280 Introduction to Political Philosophy 3 units
PHIL 300 Introduction to World Religions 3 units
Total Required Major Units: 18

General Education - certified completion of one of the following:

  • California State University General Education-Breadth pattern (CSU GE Breadth),

OR

  • Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) pattern

Advising Note: Students planning to transfer to a CSU (California State University) campus MUST complete an Oral Communication (COMM) course (CSU Minimum Admissions Requirement). Oral communication courses are noted in the following GE areas: CSU GE (Area A1) or IGETC (Area 1C).

Up to (9 - 12) major course units may be double counted to apply to meet general education requirements. This degree does not require the Skyline College Associate Degree requirements.

Elective courses: If applicable, additional courses to meet the minimum 60 CSU transferable units requirement.

Please refer to Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) Requirements for more information.