Philosophy
Why Study Philosophy?
In tandem with scientific training, Caltech's Bachelor of Science (BS) in Philosophy degree program develops rigorous intellectual tools to investigate how truth, knowledge, and other philosophical and scientific concepts are constructed and validated. By studying philosophy, Caltech undergraduates become prepared to communicate complex ideas clearly, construct arguments, and approach research questions with technical expertise and ethical awareness.
Prepare yourself to explore puzzles raised by quantum mechanics and artificial intelligence, analyze the foundations of scientific and philosophical debates, and question new frontiers in technology, from the ethical implications of research design to humanity's moral relationship with ecological sustainability to the connection between neural activity and free will.
Why Philosophy at Caltech?
At Caltech, our philosophy major is designed to help students immersed in scientific and engineering studies understand the abstract philosophical concepts that underlie concrete scientific applications. Our small class sizes facilitate in-depth discussions and debates, where you'll refine your own ideas, arguments, and critiques, skills essential for both academic research and professional environments.
Work closely with Caltech philosophers to explore how philosophical thinking can address challenges in your scientific field of interest, whether you analyze ethical questions in bioengineering or investigate the nature of consciousness against the background of neuroscience. This interdisciplinary approach prepares you to tackle complex problems and apply sophisticated philosophical thinking to extend what's been done in the past and transform the future.
What You'll Learn
The first-year core curriculum preludes the philosophy major with foundational humanities and social science courses. Then, you'll develop your ability to read and interpret foundational philosophical texts, express complex ideas, and clearly analyze arguments both verbally and in writing. You will engage with contemporary philosophical debates, such as how to prove something is true and what constitutes the nature of reality. In classes like Philosophy of Space and Time, you will explore our understanding of the physical world, the interaction between time and space, and even the possibility of time travel.
Throughout the curriculum, philosophy majors examine questions about personal identity, reality, and consciousness, paired with advanced training in science and engineering areas they are interested in, like neuroscience or consumer economics. In an optional senior year thesis, work one-on-one with faculty to develop a substantial argument on a philosophical or scientific question. Students interested in philosophical perspectives can pursue a philosophy minor alongside their primary scientific interests.
View the Caltech catalog for degree requirements and curriculum information.
Who You'll Learn From
Study under our six dedicated philosophy faculty and lecturers, along with subject matter experts and historians across the Humanities and Social Science division. These researchers bring diverse perspectives to philosophical questions, specializing in areas from history and philosophy of science to causality and probability, to decision science. The small department size means you'll develop close relationships with professors who explore philosophical approaches to scientific questions, like fundamental wonders of the mind and how moral, political, and economic lives are formed.
Being able to run classes where discussion is unpredictable, I like how I can be surprised. It's not the same year after year because each new group of students provides their own ideas and helps teach each other in the classroom.
Career Possibilities
Graduates of the philosophy bachelor's degree demonstrate advanced skills in rigorous analytical thinking and a wide view of scientific methods and innovations. This positions students for success in their desired scientific area, from ethics in biomedical research to the social responsibility of corporations. Students pursue further education to enter law, medicine, or career philosophy, and also excel in diverse fields including:
- Scientific research
- Technology development
- Business and management
- Public and economic policy
- Education and communication
Curriculum Components and Prerequisites
Students interested in majoring in philosophy should take at least one introductory philosophy course during their first year. The degree program culminates in a comprehensive senior thesis, providing students with invaluable experience for graduate school applications and careers that require strong communication skills and critical thinking. The components of the philosophy degree are flexible, allowing students to choose courses that align with their interests, while also including essential requirements.
- Oral and written communication training
- Advanced philosophy courses
- Related advanced courses in fields connected to philosophical interests
- Science, math, and engineering courses beyond core requirements
- Senior thesis work over two terms in senior year
Pursue a Bachelor's in Philosophy at Caltech
In Caltech's undergraduate philosophy degree program, transform your approach as a scientist and develop the skills to deeply understand how science and engineering disciplines work, why they matter, and what they mean. Whether you're interested in the conceptual foundations of multiple universes or philosophical questions about how the brain influences our view of self, the philosophy major equips you with intellectual tools that complement and enhance scientific expertise.