Department of Philosophy

Academic Department

Philosophy at SFSU teaches the history of thought, encourages developing powerful reasoning skills and applying insights and skills to your interests and profession.

Welcome to Philosophy

At San Francisco State University we have several ways of pursuing the study of philosophy. Each is tailored to your interests and aspirations.

The Department of Philosophy is a dynamic teaching and research program with a long history of achievement. We offer B.A. degrees in Philosophy, a concentration in Philosophy and Law, an M.A. degree, a graduate certificate in Ethical Artificial Intelligence and a rich array of courses that address the diverse backgrounds of our faculty and students.

Our nationally recognized M.A. program is comprised of a thriving community of engaged philosophers in the heart of the Bay Area.  

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Graduate Certificate in Ethical AI

As AI skills and ethics gain importance, enroll in our unique Graduate Certificate offered with SFSU’s Computer Science Department and Lam Family College of Business.

Learn more about our Ethical AI program
A book titled "Invitation to Law & Society" resting on a chess board in the Philosophy Lounge.

B.A. in Philosophy: Concentration in Philosophy and Law

This new, specialized program emphasizes the skills and coursework you’ll need for law school.

Learn more about Philosophy and Law
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From Our Community

My time studying philosophy at SFSU remains deeply special to me. I felt both challenged and supported to think clearly, write well, and do my best. The faculty and philosophical community ultimately inspired me to pursue my academic career in ways I hadn’t thought possible. I am now a Ph.D. student at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, focusing on biomedical ethics.
Genesis Sorrick
M.A., ’24

Our Programs