Bachelor’s in Philosophy Online
Nikita Nath
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WebsiteNikita is a psychologist working primarily with children using a child rights-based approach. She also writes content for various websites and blogs on diverse topics, focusing primarily on academia. Her hobbies include traveling, reading, and discovering different coffee-making techniques.
Degrees
Bachelors in English, Journalism, and Psychology; Masters in psychology with clinical specialization
nikitanath8@gmail.com
nikitanath8@gmail.comAreas of Expertise & Credentials
- 2 years of experience working as a content writer with various start-ups
- 1 year of experience working as a child psychologist with Insight
- Working on various projects of inclusion for neurodivergent children
- 2+ years of experience teaching psychology online
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The bachelor’s in philosophy online is an undergraduate degree program through which students learn about the development of philosophical thought over different ages and the influences of different paradigms in the world. Through this program, students also refine their critical thinking skills and develop the ability to make arguments. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that about 65% of people employed in the occupations of philosophy would require at least an undergraduate degree[1], making the online bachelor’s in philosophy an apt choice for prospective students to consider. After graduation, one can use philosophy in various occupations, including writing, journalism, teaching, law, business, and policy-making.
Best Online Bachelor’s
in Philosophy
Students interested in philosophy and philosophy-related careers will find a bachelor’s in philosophy degree useful. However, to select a suitable bachelor’s program, they must consider the institution’s reputation, the courses offered, accreditation, affordability, graduate rates, and other critical factors. FBD teams considered these and other components when compiling a list of some of the best online colleges for a bachelor’s degree in philosophy in the United States. Here is the list of top colleges and programs for a philosophy degree: *
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| Arizona State University | University Drive and Mill Avenue, Tempe, Arizona 85287 | $11,348 | 66% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from Bachelor’s in
Philosophy Online Programs
The online bachelor’s degree in philosophy curriculum empowers critical analysis and thought. It focuses on areas of core analytic philosophy like epistemology and metaphysics, which give students a good background in history of philosophy. The program’s objective is to provide students with basic knowledge in essential areas of philosophy, like a theory of values, knowledge, and more. The program increases their awareness of ethical issues, improves their analytical skills, and assists them in developing experience in problem-solving in various areas of philosophy. Students deepen their understanding of a specific topic or question in their field of study through creative projects, research studies, and other experiences that culminate in the presentation and defense of their work.
The degree in philosophy online is about 120 credits and could take up to four years to complete. No prior coursework in philosophy is required to take up this program. The program is offered in online, on-campus, and hybrid learning modes.
With a wide range of courses for students to choose from, the bachelor’s in philosophy can be tailored to one’s interests and professional objectives. Courses such as ethics and introduction to logic are frequently found across most programs, although the exact coursework would differ by institution. Some of the standard courses one can expect in this degree are:
Philosophy of Mind
This course studies the nature, relationships, and ontology of the mind with the body. The mind-body problem is explored as a paradigm that focuses on issues of the philosophy of mind. However, other issues are also addressed, like the problems of consciousness.
History of Modern Philosophy
In this course, students learn about the meaningfulness of history and the nature of different historical explanations. They will read through materials from the history of western philosophy from the Renaissance period, all through Kant. The focus is also on the 17th and early 20th centuries, which would mark the beginning and end of the period of modern philosophy.
Contemporary Analytic Philosophy,
Contemporary analytic philosophy is a branch of philosophy that heavily relies on analysis. Students study 20th-century philosophers like Russell, Carnap, Wisdom, Quine, Sellars, etc., applying epistemology and metaphysics. They focus on different assumptions, interests, and methods used by contemporary philosophers.
History of Ancient Philosophy
In this course, students focus on the extensive readings of the pre-Socratic fragments and records of Plato and Aristotle, the historical context of philosophical problems among the Greeks, and the main categories of philosophical solutions.
Metaethics
In this course, students focus on understanding the epistemological, semantic, psychological, and metaphysical components of moral thought, practice, and talk. The course explores foundations, status, and scopes of properties, words, and moral values. Students learn about the different actions, opinions, and experiences of human behavior.
Philosophical Argument and Exposition
This course exposes students to developing philosophical arguments and exposition techniques. They also go through frequent written exercises, although the content will vary with different instructors. Students learn about reasoning, evidence to support such reasoning, and much more.
Read the Guide to Bachelor Programs to understand more about 4-year undergraduate degrees.
Degree Types for Bachelor’s in
Philosophy Online Programs
The bachelor of philosophy online, also known as a BPhil, is usually available as the Bachelor of Arts or BA in philosophy online and the Bachelor of Science or BS in philosophy online. Of the two, the BA philosophy is more common.
Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy or BA in Philosophy
The Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy degree helps students improve their ability to think critically and clearly about the different theories of philosophy from around the world. Students enhance their communication skills through this program and learn how to read and interpret complex texts. They also learn how to build practical cognitive and interpersonal skills, logic, reasoning, and situation analysis.
Bachelor of Science in Philosophy or BS in Philosophy
The Bachelor of Science in Philosophy degree emphasizes specific aspects of philosophy connected with science. This degree type is better for students who want to do a dual major in philosophy and science. It also helps lay the foundation for advanced studies like a master’s because students can take supervised research courses to gain an in-depth understanding of the field.
Areas of Specialization for Bachelor’s in
Philosophy Online Degree Programs
Specializations are niche areas within a subject that students can choose to master. Those pursuing an online philosophy bachelor’s degree could specialize in an area of philosophy in which they are interested. Opting for a specialization provides deeper insights into the concentration area and helps in seeking specific jobs after graduating. Here are a few to consider:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| Modern Philosophy | In this concentration, students focus on logical empiricism and learn about the applications of certain methods and ways of thought, significantly different from earlier types of philosophy. | Technical writers, critics, cultural affairs officers |
| Philosophy of Science | This concentration aims to understand what tasks scientists have completed and how they have executed them. They look at the series of developments made in the general philosophy of science in the early 20th century. | Careers in political science, business, social science, and academics |
| Philosophy of Religion | This specialization focuses on the philosophical examinations of central concepts and themes seen across religious traditions. Students undergo philosophical discussions on topics from different ancient periods and the earliest known philosophical texts. | Librarians, social workers, museum conservators, professors, clergy, journalists |
| Social and Political Philosophy | In this specialization, students look at the development of political philosophy and how it was reformed by movements against the superstitions held in religion. They study concepts that resulted in the development of sovereignty and nation-state. | Careers in journalism, health services, politics, government offices, and academia. |
| Ethics | In this specialization, students learn about what constitutes the right action, ensuring a good life for families, and other diverse topics. They engage in talks about philosophical theories and their implications. | Careers in writing, journalism, academics, and health. |
| Healthcare | In this concentration, students study the strong foundations of healthcare ideas, issues, and concepts within the field of philosophy and how consciousness and the well-being of mind, body, and soul are connected. | Careers in health care fields of acute care, public health, mental health, and rehabilitation. |
| Legal Theory | In this concentration, students who want to take up law as a career develop a strong understanding of legal concepts, theories, practices, and ideas through the lens of philosophy. | Legal specialists, medical ethics experts, public administrators |
Why should I do a Bachelor’s
in Philosophy Online?
Studying different schools of thought from a variety of countries as part of a bachelor’s degree in philosophy can help students develop clearer and more analytical thought processes. They can also work on improving their ability to communicate clearly and effectively. One more significant benefit of pursuing the B.Phil. degree is gaining the ability to read complex texts with care and understand them. The program opens several doors for oneself professionally and personally and develops universally applicable skills one can use throughout many facets of life.
An online bachelor’s degree in philosophy benefits students with work, family, or other commitments and for whom travel to and from a college is challenging. The program confers a breadth of knowledge across a wide range of topics, making it useful in taking up diverse careers of choice, from arbitrators and diplomats to judges and politicians.
The bachelor’s in philosophy degree program equips students with diverse skills they can use in various settings. For example, after graduating, they will have the ability to:
- display knowledge in core analytic philosophy like metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, and political philosophy;
- display awareness about ethical issues, and showcase analytical skills in assisting people to develop problem-solving experiences;
- build upon ideas and new theories in philosophies that show the nature of the mind, the relationship between brain state and mental state, and make distinctions between true knowledge and belief;
- form a basis of distinctions between wrong and right and make others understand the rules of arguments that are valid;
- demonstrate high ethics in solving moral problems common in recent times, such as environmental concerns;
- ask questions that reflect insight into real life and matters related to developing clear thinking and judgment, which is perceptive; and
- show academic and research skills in critical areas of philosophy like medical ethics, law, morality, etc.
Free Courses for Bachelor’s in
Philosophy Online Students
Taking free courses while pursuing a bachelor’s degree in philosophy can help students explore more topics that might not include in their curriculum. Free courses broaden students’ horizons and help them build interest in their fields. Those enrolled in online bachelor’s in philosophy may find that some free courses can help them build better foundational knowledge or provide varied perspectives on a specific topic. Here are some free courses to explore:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| Ancient Philosophy: Plato and His Predecessors | In this course, students learn about Presocratic natural philosophers who were credited as being the first scientists. They examine the fundamental ethical questions philosophers have been posing for centuries. They also learn about different philosophical systems. | Coursera |
| The Path to Happiness: What Chinese Philosophy Teaches Us About the Good Life | In this course, students learn about ancient Chinese philosophy, which challenges the modern assumptions of being happy. The course covers philosophies from Confucianism to Daoism, developed over two thousand years ago. It also explores everyday contexts with interpretations from ancient philosophies. | edX |
| Justice | This course explores the classical and contemporary theories of justice, which includes learning about present-day applications of the approaches in a real-world setting. The course looks at affirmative action, same-sex marriage, the role of markets, and income distribution. | Harvard University |
How to get into Bachelor’s in Philosophy
Online Programs?
To enroll in a bachelor’s degree in philosophy, students must fulfill several requirements that vary by college. Some colleges could ask for higher GPAs or prerequisite courses, although most make do with a standard set of requirements. The typical philosophy degree admissions requirements are:
- Application form and fee
- High school diploma or equivalent
- A Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.5 or more
- Official academic transcripts
- ACT or SAT scores (required by some colleges)
- Application essay stating the purpose of enrolling into the program (sometimes required)
- Proof of English proficiency if the native tongue is not English.a
How Long does it take to complete a
Bachelor’s in Philosophy Online?
On average, it takes about four years to complete the online degrees in philosophy full-time. Those transferring credits from an associate’s degree usually require only two years instead of four. Part-time students would take longer, say four to six years, to complete their programs. Here is a quick summary of the duration of a bachelor’s in philosophy program:
- Time to complete a full-time philosophy bachelor’s degree: about four years
- Time to complete a part-time philosophy bachelor’s degree: between 4 and 6 years
- Total credits required: typically about 120
Accelerated Bachelor’s in
Philosophy Online
An accelerated program lets students complete their degree requirements in lesser time than a regular full-time program. The structure of the accelerated program would vary from institution to institution. There are many ways in which schools offer to reduce completion time, like transfer of credits, completing more credits in one semester, etc. Here are a couple of examples of accelerated bachelor’s in philosophy online programs:
- The University of Colorado Boulder offers an accelerated bachelor’s to master’s program, which integrates a bachelor’s and master’s degree that can be completed in five years.
- Arizona State University offers an online bachelor of arts in philosophy, with an option to fast-track the program.
Accreditations for Bachelor’s in
Philosophy Online
In a nutshell, accreditation is a stamp of quality. When a college is accredited, it lives up to expectations and offers quality education to its students. In most cases, institutions are regionally accredited by one of six independent accrediting bodies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (USDE) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), which are:
Read the Guide to College Accreditation to understand more about accreditation, its process, and its importance.
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
- Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
How to Pay for Bachelor’s in
Philosophy Online?
One of the essential factors when choosing a bachelor’s program is the cost of the program. Many students look for financial aid because of the rising cost of tuition. Getting financial assistance allows one to focus on studying rather than worrying about how to pay for college. Here are some external sources of funding that bachelor’s in philosophy online students can explore:
Scholarships
Scholarships are given to deserving students for their academic accomplishments. While some scholarships are given on academic merit, others are based on achievements in sports, music, theater, etc.
Grants
Grants are usually given to students based on their financial needs rather than merit. Grant money can be used to pay for tuition or meet other educational expenses such as transportation, books and supplies, and student accommodation.
Private Student Loans
Private student loans are offered on interest by banks and financial institutions. Although loans must be paid back, they are an option to consider if one does not qualify for other types of financial aid.
Federal Work-Study
Federal work-study programs will give undergraduate students part-time work, allowing them to pay for their degrees while studying and working simultaneously. These programs provide excellent networking possibilities to philosophy students.
FAFSA
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA provides information to students about the financial aid they are eligible for. The FAFSA Student Aid guide explains it in detail.
Scholarships for Bachelor’s in
Philosophy Online Students
Scholarships help students lessen their financial burdens and further their education. Students pursuing an online bachelor’s degree in philosophy program could be provided scholarships based on criteria like diversity and inclusion, academic merit, athletic skills, etc. Examples of scholarships philosophy students can apply for are:
| Scholarship | Description | Award/Amount | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Downing-Montague Scholarship for Philosophy and Healthcare and Technology | The Downing-Montagues scholarship for philosophy and healthcare and technology is awarded to students who show interest in philosophy and healthcare or philosophy and technology. | $1,500 | TBA |
| Davidson Fellows scholarship | The Davidson Institute presents the Davidson Fellows Scholarship to students who have executed specific projects in certain dimensions. These dimensions include literature, engineering, philosophy, music, and technology. | Up to $50,000 | Closed for 2023 | TBA for 2024 |
| The Augustana College Fryxell Scholarship | The Augustana College Fryxell Scholarship is awarded to students majoring in humanities who exhibit intellectual curiosity, academic dedication, and good character. | $4,000 | February 15 |
FAQs Related to Bachelor’s in
Philosophy Online Programs
What is the study of philosophy?
Philosophy is a systematic study of fundamental questions concerning reason, knowledge, mind, values, existence, language, etc. Philosophy students concentrate on philosophical works and the skills required to analyze and discuss them, which will have applications in their personal and professional lives.
How long is an online bachelor’s in philosophy?
What can you do with an online philosophy bachelor’s degree?
What is a bachelor’s of philosophy degree?
What kinds of specializations are available in the bachelor of philosophy program?
Is licensing in the field of philosophy necessary?
Career Opportunities and Salaries after
a Bachelor’s in Philosophy
In 2019, the number of professionals in philosophy and religion was 473,500, and the median annual pay was $55,000[1]. Because philosophy can be used in a wide range of settings and applications, those who have earned a degree in philosophy online can seek employment in industry, business, management, healthcare, academia, legal services, etc. Here are a few examples of careers, their median annual salary, and job growth:
| Occupation | Job Description | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2030) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Administrative Services and Facilities Managers | Administrative services and facilities managers can direct, coordinate, and plan activities to help run organizations efficiently. They supervise administrative and clerical staff and manage and monitor records. | Critical thinking skills, analytical thinking skills, problem-solving skills | $99,290 | 7% (as fast as average) |
| Career and Technical Education Teachers | Career and technical education teachers instruct students in different vocational and technical subjects like philosophy and healthcare. They keep track of students’ progress, assign tasks, and grade assignments. | Interpersonal skills, verbal skills, decision-making skills | $61,160 | 2% (slower than average) |
| Arbitrators, Mediators, and Conciliators | Arbitrators, conciliators, and mediators facilitate dialogue and negotiations between different parties. Their roles are to mediate and resolve conflicts outside the court setting. | Project planning skills, team communication skills, verbal skills | $49,410 | 6% (as fast as average) |
| Human Resources Specialists | Human resources specialists interview, screen, and recruit job applicants and place newly hired workers. They handle varied roles like employee relations, training, and recruitment and oversee employee compensation and benefits. | Collaboration skills, verbal skills, leadership skills, compassion | $62,290 | 8% (faster than average) |
| Training and Development Specialists | Training and development specialists administer and plan programs that help improve employee knowledge and skills. They review training materials from various sources and assist in evaluating training programs. | Decision-making skills, interpersonal skills, communication skills | $61,570 | 8% (faster than average) |
Certifications and Licensing for Bachelor’s
in Philosophy Online Students
Board or professional certifications show the public and employers that individuals have the necessary knowledge and skills in their field. They are an excellent way to increase employability while also attracting higher pay. There are no mandatory certification or licensing requirements for students who have earned a degree in philosophy online. However, when the opportunity arises, obtaining certification in a field that complements philosophy is always advisable.
Additional Resources for Bachelor’s
in Philosophy Online Students
Philosophy is a vast subject that extends far beyond what the eye can see. Connecting and collaborating with like-minded people and renowned philosophers can thus lead to newer discoveries, stories, and insights, all of which will benefit students and graduates of an online bachelor’s in philosophy. Additionally, joining a professional organization can present opportunities for internships, research grants, scholarships, study resources, mentoring from industry experts, and more. To that end, here are a few resources to consider for students:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| The Philosopher’s Council | The Philosopher’s Council helps build connections with like-minded people passionate about the common goal of giving access to philosophy to as many people as possible. The organization helps people learn about the frameworks and ways to promote philosophical approaches. |
| The American Philosophical Association | The American Philosophical Association supports the development of dissemination and teaching techniques and materials at different levels. They provide conferences, conventions, meetings, project grants, and journals and also offer many awards and prizes for excellence and contributions to the philosophical discipline. |
| American Association of Philosophy Teachers | The American Association of Philosophy Teachers (AAPT) seeks to improve and promote the quality of philosophy instruction at all levels of education. In teaching philosophy, they encourage experimentation, investigation, and research. |
| American Philosophical Society | The American Philosophical Society serves scholars in the field of philosophy through research of manuscripts and various other collections available internationally and recognized for their historical value. Their activities reflect the spirit of inquiry, foster critical thought, and facilitate the free exchange of ideas. |
| Association for the Scientific Study of Consciousness | The Association for the Scientific Study of consciousness, or ASSC, is an academic society that promotes and coordinates rigorous research and annual conferences to understand function and nature and highlight the different mechanisms of consciousness. |
Author Bio:
Nikita Nath
Nikita is a psychologist working primarily with children using a child rights-based approach. She also writes content for various websites and blogs on diverse topics, focusing primarily on academia. Her hobbies include traveling, reading, and discovering different coffee-making techniques.
Degrees
Bachelors in English, Journalism, and Psychology; Masters in psychology with clinical specialization
- nikitanath8@gmail.com
Areas of Expertise & Credentials
- 2 years of experience working as a content writer with various start-ups
- 1 year of experience working as a child psychologist with Insight
- Working on various projects of inclusion for neurodivergent children
- 2+ years of experience teaching psychology online
Disclaimer:
The average tuition (based on degree type for in-state students), average graduation rates, and rankings are based on data from various sources, including the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), and are variable over time. All rankings and statistics are subject to change. The rankings are solely the opinion of Find Best Degrees (FBD) and are based on our proprietary methodology. They do not represent the views of the institutions or organizations mentioned, nor do they represent any official government census or survey. Furthermore, any views or opinions expressed on this page are of FBD’s researchers and teams. Unless otherwise specified, they do not represent the thoughts and opinions of the individuals, institutions, or organizations mentioned. This page’s content is provided solely for informational purposes, with data drawn from various sources, including IPEDS. FBD and its employees make no guarantees regarding the accuracy or completeness of any information found on this page or by following any link. FBD will not be held liable for any errors or omissions in this material nor any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from the exposure or use of this information. Although the information on this page is/was correct at the time of publication, readers should exercise caution because some or all of the provided information may have changed over time, potentially resulting in inaccuracies. For more information, please read our Terms of Service. Trademarks and logos are the property of their registered owners.