Philosophy

Associate in Arts for Transfer Behavioral Sciences · Palomar College · 2026-2027 Catalog

The Associate of Arts in Philosophy for Transfer (AA-T) is designed to provide students an introduction to the major theories and methods of philosophical inquiry in preparation for upper-division course work at the university level. The degree offers the opportunity to gain a broad understanding of the main themes within the history of philosophy while at the same time developing analytical and critical reasoning abilities. Critical thinking is emphasized in all philosophy classes and students can apply their skills of critical thinking to philosophical problems in metaphysics, theory of knowledge, ethics, social and political philosophy and philosophy of religion.

The major introduces students to both Western and non-Western philosophical traditions.The following Associate Degree for Transfer completion requirements must be met:

  1. Completion of 60 semester units or 90 quarter units that are eligible for transfer to the California State University, including both of the following:
  2. The California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC)
  3. A minimum of 18 semester units or 27 quarter units in a major or area of emphasis, as determined by the community college district.
  4. Obtainment of a minimum grade point average of 2.0.

ADTs also require that students earn a C or better in all courses required for the major or area of emphasis. A “P” (Pass) grade is an acceptable grade for courses in the major.

Learning Outcome(s):

  1. Explain the relationship of philosophy to a variety of areas of human experience such as faith, morality, and culture.
  2. Compose and evaluate arguments with appropriate argumentative models, competing viewpoints, and the use of relevant evidence or support.
  3. Analyze a philosophical issue, position, or problem with reference to at least one major philosopher.
  4. Formulate and explain philosophical claims, either the student's own or the claims of another.
CourseTitleUnits
Program Requirements (Select 2 courses)6
Electives (select one)3
PHIL 111Introduction to Philosophy3
orPHIL 121Introduction to Ethics3
Electives (select one)3
PHIL 116Introduction to Logic3
List A (Select 1 course) Any course not taken above, or3
PHIL 140History of Ancient Philosophy3
PHIL 141History of Modern Philosophy3
List B (Select 2 courses) Any courses not selected from List A, or6
PHIL 200Critical Thinking3
PHIL 142Contemporary Philosophical Movements3
PHIL 122Social and Political Philosophy3
PHIL 126Philosophy of Religion3
List C (Select 1 course) Any course not selected from List A or B, or3
RS 101World Religions3
PHIL 114Asian Philosophies3
PHIL 125Philosophy of Human Nature3
Total18

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