Brief description of Graduate Programs in Philosophy

Ph.D. Program

A total of twelve courses, including the following.

• Three 600-level Core Courses - (1) Metaphysics, Mind, and Language; (2) Value Theory; and (3) either Epistemology or Philosophy of Science.
• Six 800-level Graduate Seminars
• Two courses in the History of Philosophy
• One course in logic

Up to two courses may be taken outside the department with the permission of the Director of Graduate Studies.

When coursework is complete, students write a thesis prospectus. Once this is approved by their advisory committee, they then 'advance to candidacy' and begin writing their Ph.D. dissertation.

For a more detailed description of the Ph.D. Program, see the Graduate Handbook.

M.A. Program

A total of ten courses, including the following.

• Three 600-level Core Courses - (1) Metaphysics, Mind, and Language; (2) Value Theory; and (3) either Epistemology or Philosophy of Science.
• Three 800-level Graduate Seminars.
• One courses in the History of Philosophy
• One course in logic

Up to two courses may be taken outside the department with the permission of the Director of Graduate Studies.

There is also a scholarly paper requirement (normally a revised term-paper from a course already taken).

Students wishing to write the equivalent of an M.A. thesis may substitute up to two terms of Philosophy 798 (Master's Level Independent Study) for up to two of the ten required courses.

For a more detailed description of the M.A. Program, see the Graduate Handbook.