Philosophy

Associate in Arts Degree for Transfer Philosophy · Golden West College · 2026-2027 Catalog

The Associate in Arts for Transfer in Philosophy degree focuses on a critical analysis of philosophical history, ideas, and concepts as well the development of analytical, critical thinking, writing, and reading skills. Students choosing this major will study a range of philosophical subjects including metaphysics, epistemology, logic, and ethics. In addition, students will learn how to identify philosophical principles and concepts, critically analyze texts, and generate proper arguments. Completion of this major will provide students with a well-rounded understanding of philosophy and equip them with the skills of a philosopher. Students will be prepared for upper division work toward a baccalaureate degree in philosophy.

Program Learning Outcomes

  1. Describe the basic problems in philosophy and traditional approaches to the issues.
  2. Employ critical thinking and analytic skills to evaluate and understand arguments.
  3. Evaluate philosophical concepts as they pertain within and outside of the discipline and across cultures and belief systems.

Requirements

Associate Degree for Transfer Graduation Requirements

Associate Degrees for Transfer require students to meet the following requirements:

Students should consult a GWC counselor to select the best pathway to meet their educational goals. For students who intend to transfer, the choice of general education will be specific to both their major and transfer institution.

CourseTitleUnits
Required Core6
PHIL G115Logic and Critical Thinking3
orPHIL G125Critical Reasoning and Writing
PHIL G100Introduction to Philosophy3
orPHIL G120Ethics
List A
Select one of the following:3
Any course from Required Core not already used
PHIL G102History of Ancient Philosophy3
PHIL G120Ethics3
PHIL G140History of Modern Philosophy3
List B
Select two of the following:6
Any course from Required Core or List A not already used
PHIL G110Philosophy Of The East3
PHIL G111Philosophy of Religion - Western3
HIST G180Western Civilization 13
HIST G185Western Civilization 23
List C
Select any course from List A or List B not already used3
PHIL G150Political Theory3
orPSCI G150Political Theory
Major Total21
GE Pattern (Cal-GETC)34
Transferable Electives (as needed to reach 60 units)
Total Units60

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