Philosophy, minor

Philosophy, minor

Program Overview

Are you fascinated by the difficult questions of the human condition? Do you get angry or inspired by issues of social justice, longing to understand the driving factors behind them and to work to establish peace and equality? If so, pursuing a philosophy minor, combined with any number of majors, will allow you to blend your passion for exploring life’s profound questions with your desire for meaningful work.

Philosophy is an explicit and intentional study of what it means to be human, and as such it’s powerfully formative for any student, regardless of major. In addition to learning to contend with complex concepts, philosophy minors will also be trained to critically analyze difficult texts, problem-solve creatively, and speak and write persuasively, clearly articulating their thoughts and ideas. These skills will prepare you for graduate school or any career field of your choice. Whether your dreams lie in business, law, education, politics, entertainment, or anywhere else, the foundational skills gained from this specialization will make you stand out in your field of choice.

Headshot of Matthew Applegate

Spotlight

Matthew Applegate, Ph.D. (08)

Matthew Applegate, Ph.D. (08) has used his philosophy education to open opportunities to a variety of academic areas.

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Course List

For information about the courses required for the Philosophy, minor program, view the PLNU Catalog. 

Course Information

Start Application

Are you ready to take the next step to begin your PLNU journey? Whether you’re a high school senior, college transfer student, or international student, find out what we’re looking for in our applicants and how you can apply.

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Student Support

For most students, the transition into college life is one full of adjustments. There is the excitement of newfound freedoms, but also some uncertainty as you begin to make choices and take responsibility for your own future. 

At PLNU, we’re committed to supporting you — academically, professionally, spiritually, personally — so that you may be successful both in your time as a student and beyond. That’s why we offer a holistic support system that focuses on your unique experiences, particular needs, and personal and professional goals — resulting from our deep concern for you, our student.

With a focus on authentic relationships and personalized attention, our goal is to help transform you so you can follow your calling in your own career and life.

Student Support

Perspectives Shared

Alum Emilie Anderson: Exploring Life’s Biggest Questions
Should I Major in Religious Studies or Philosophy?
Spiritual Practices: A Guide to Growth Through Daily Rhythms
Jordan and Katrina Frye: Sharing the Truth Behind a Sustainable Creative Practice

Nell Sweeden - Philosophy and Theology

Alumni Testimonials

"Professor Impact "
"Career Preparation "

Smee Hall Snapshots

Discover More
Videos (1)
Articles (7)
Quotes (2)
Pictures (3)
Nell Becker (02) Sweeden has learned that embracing one’s calling involves a continual process of discernment throughout life.
Alum Emilie Anderson: Exploring Life’s Biggest Questions Emilie Anderson’s experience in PLNU’s philosophy program helped her develop a sense of groundedness about herself and the world. Discover
Should I Major in Religious Studies or Philosophy? Explore the similarities and differences between the Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies and the Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy majors at PLNU. Discover
Spiritual Practices: A Guide to Growth Through Daily Rhythms Finding ways to connect to faith community and God are important rhythms in our lives. Check out this guide to daily spiritual practices. Discover
Jordan and Katrina Frye: Sharing the Truth Behind a Sustainable Creative Practice Jordan and Katrina Frye returned to their alma mater in the spring to offer insight and wisdom to students following their career trajectories in art and music. Discover
Christian Studies Class Explores Important Role of Women in the Church Learn about the PLNU School of Theology and Christian Ministry’s course on the history of women in the church. Discover
A Historical Tour of PLNU’s Stained Glass Windows Dr. David Strawn’s stained glass windows have graced PLNU’s campus for decades, and bless generations of students each time they pass by. Discover
9 Essential Spiritual Disciplines for the Ministry Student Spiritual disciplines are one of the main ways Christians can pursue spiritual formation. Here are 9 disciplines ministry students can practice to get closer to God. Discover
Professor Impact
"One of the coolest parts of Point Loma is that the professors are so relatable. They allow themselves to be known by you. They talk about what they do, their families, their character, their heart for the church, their academic studies. That’s how I found my call to ministry: just witnessing them and seeing how their character is so remarkable and seeing their calling to love Christ and the world changed my life."
Kevin Portillo Philosophy, Theology, and Christian Ministry B.A.
Career Preparation
"Philosophy gave me a lot of skills on how to think logically, reason, pick apart arguments, and an ability to be objective and just look at the facts in a way that other people weren’t as well equipped to do. I think that’s very helpful in my career as a lawyer because first and foremost, you’re analyzing the facts objectively, and trying to make a case from there, and I think I was very well equipped to view things objectively."
Paige Cavendish Philosophy B.A.

Career Opportunities

PLNU philosophy graduates are exceptionally skilled in the intangible aspects of their discipline that can form, sustain, and strengthen any company or community. These soft skills are highly sought after by employers, and according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers' Job Outlook 2016 report, employers rated verbal communication skills as the most important candidate quality. Philosophy minors at PLNU cultivate these strengths in a Christian context that nurtures their intellectual and spiritual lives and equips them to be reasoned and ethical leaders in a variety of careers.

A minor in philosophy can be a useful and natural complement within a variety of careers and industries, such as:

  • Domestic or International Law
  • Journalism
  • Domestic or International Business
  • Teaching
  • Media Communication
  • Nonprofit Organization
  • Government
  • Visual Art

Department Faculty

Get Involved

Polkinghorne, an older man, speaks from a podium to community in Crill Hall at PLNU

H. Orton Wiley Lecture Series

Do you enjoy intelligent discourse on subjects relevant to Christian life and ministry? The H. Orton Wiley Lecture series engages and enriches students.

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Community Classroom

Do you have a desire to serve or work in a multicultural or cross-cultural setting? If so, you should take advantage of Community Classroom.

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Theology and Christian Ministry School-Specific Scholarships

Are you called to serve in ministry, but concerned about the cost? PLNU understands this concern and aims to support the next generation of ministers.