Have Questions? We Have the Answers.
Please review the following frequently asked questions to understand more about The Pacifica Center for Philosophy + Theology.
What is The Pacifica Center for Philosophy + Theology?
The Pacifica Center for Philosophy + Theology is a signature program of Pacifica Christian High School. As a leading religious secondary school on the Westside of Los Angeles, Pacifica provides an ideal home to consider essential questions of philosophy and theology. The Center hosts courses, creates media content, sponsors debates, and publishes articles. It is a hub for students, professors, and any individual who is curious about the nature of our world and our place within it.
Do I need to be a Pacifica student to access this curriculum?
Although our curriculum was originally designed for the Pacifica student body, we soon realized that there was larger interest for exploring these fundamental topics of thought, existence, and being. Therefore, we have created different ways for non-Pacifica students, adults, and other institutions to access the program. While we’re developing these new packages for a wider audience, we’d love to hear from you. Please email our team for more information and to describe your needs. We’ll do our best to accommodate you.
Who are the courses intended for?
Our courses can best be described as “college-preparatory.” They have the rigor of a college-level course, but are shorter in length and demand. They are for anyone who is interested in exploring or going deeper into the topics offered, whether that be a high school student, a college student, or an adult of any age who wants to learn more about philosophy. Whether you are a committed Christian, a seeker, or a nonbeliever, we have something to offer you. The only prerequisites are the space and time to move through the content and a commitment to ask challenging questions.
What if I have never taken a philosophy course before?
Our curriculum presumes no background knowledge in philosophy or theology, and so attempts to be accessible to those who are encountering this material for the first time. Likewise, though courses build off one another in sequence, they also try to stand alone by taking time to explain, summarize, and / or refer to previous content. However, the curriculum also goes deeper into topics than most other introductions available such that even someone with familiarity in philosophy will find the material engaging and compelling.
What if I am non-religious, agnostic, or an atheist?
Though certainly engaging religious ideas and traditions, our offerings are academic explorations of the topic(s) under consideration. They do not presume or require a faith commitment or background. We hope the content challenges presuppositions of both those with and without faith backgrounds. You are welcome here!
What format are the courses and what is the time commitment?
Each course consists of a series of 15 high-quality, video-based lectures presented by expert instructors. The minimal commitment, therefore, is simply watching and enjoying the lectures which are 25 to 45 minutes each. However, if one desires to attend classes, engage the readings, and complete the assignments that aid in understanding, roughly a five-hour weekly commitment is expected.
What do the courses cost?
At this time we are offering custom packages designed to meet the particular needs of individuals and groups. Please email us for more information.