Research Opportunities

The Department of Philosophy encourages students to engage in research that develops critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and original scholarship. Research opportunities allow students to explore philosophical questions in ethics, political philosophy, metaphysics, epistemology, philosophy of mind, philosophy of science, and other areas while working closely with faculty mentors.

Students may have opportunities to:

• Conduct independent research under faculty supervision.
• Develop course papers into conference presentations or publication-ready work.
• Participate in faculty-led research projects when available.
• Present research at department events and undergraduate philosophy conferences.
• Join discussions and academic activities through the Philosophy Club.
• Receive guidance on applying to graduate programs and pursuing academic research.
• The department also supports students who wish to present their work beyond the classroom.

Students interested in conducting research are encouraged to speak with a philosophy faculty member early in their academic career to identify research interests and available mentoring opportunities.

As part of the College of Letters, Arts, and Social Sciences (CLASS), Philosophy students benefit from an interdisciplinary academic environment that encourages collaboration across the humanities and social sciences. Students have opportunities to participate in lectures, academic events, and research activities that examine complex social, cultural, ethical, and political issues from multiple perspectives.

CLASS supports student success by fostering connections between faculty and students while promoting scholarly inquiry, communication, and critical thinking. These experiences prepare students for graduate study and careers that value strong analytical and research skills.

Cal Poly Pomona's Office of Undergraduate Research (OUR) supports students from every major who are interested in research and creative activities. Through faculty mentorship, workshops, research programs, and campus events, students can develop research skills, explore topics of interest, and share their work with the university community.

Students can:

• Connect with faculty mentors to begin research projects.
• Attend workshops on research methods, literature reviews, writing, and presentations.
• Apply for undergraduate research programs and funding opportunities.
• Present their work at the annual Student Research, Scholarship & Creative Activities (RSCA) Conference.
• Publish undergraduate research through the REACH Journal.
• Explore research opportunities through programs such as the Achieve Scholars Program, Emerging Scholars Program, Projects Hatchery, and the McNair Scholars Program.

These opportunities reflect Cal Poly Pomona's learn-by-doing philosophy and help students develop the research, communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills valued in graduate education and professional careers.