Program Overview

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Master of Arts in Philosophy

Program Overview

The Master of Arts in Philosophy program at the University at Albany is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of philosophical theories, including ethics and knowledge. The program is open to students from various disciplines, ensuring a dynamic learning experience and excellent seminar discussions.

Program of Study

Core Courses

• One course in one of the following areas:
  • Epistemology and Metaphysics
  • History of Philosophy
  • Value Theory

Elective Courses

• Fulfill remaining credit requirements with any graduate courses in philosophy.

Sample Course Titles by Topic Area

• Metaphysics and Epistemology: Metaphysics, Philosophy of Mind, Analytic Philosophy, Theory of Knowledge, Philosophy of Science, Logic and Philosophy.
• Value-Theory: Philosophy and Public Affairs, Theory and Function of Religion, Philosophy of Law, Contemporary Social and Political Philosophy.
• History of Philosophy: British Empiricism, Philosophy of Plato, Philosophy of Aristotle, The Continental Rationalists, Kant and Continental Idealism.

Completion Options

• Submit a 6-credit master's thesis.
• Take additional coursework (4 credits) and the Master's Talk (2 credits).

Career Paths

The MA in Philosophy is an excellent bridge to doctoral study. Many graduates of this program continue their education and earn PhDs in philosophy or advanced degrees in related fields such as law, education, political science, and economics.

Program alumni have also become employed as consultants, government officials, political campaign strategists, publishers, technical writers, economic advisors, and personnel managers.

Admissions Requirements

Deadlines

• Fall: Rolling
• Spring: Rolling
• Summer: Not Available

Required Application Materials

• Transcripts from all schools attended
• Two letters of recommendation
• Official GRE test scores
• Statement of goals
• Writing sample

Student Learning Objectives

• Students show knowledge of the scope of philosophy, including the history of Western philosophy, main areas of contemporary philosophy, and formal logic.
• Students show expertise in a focused area of philosophy, and acquire the skill of producing advanced written work within philosophy.

Supplemental Degree Programs

Graduate students can typically request a supplemental degree in one or more subordinate degrees without needing to go through the full admissions process again.

Supplemental programs available with this degree:

• Africana Studies CGS
• Community College Leadership CGS
• Demography CGS
• International Education Management CGS