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| Click on these links for information about the Ph.D. and M.A. programs. For more information please contact Anita Wallace, Assistant to the Director of Graduate Studies, walla027@umn.edu. |
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Philosophy Department Degree Programs: Ph.D. (pdf) |
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The Department of Philosophy offers both Ph.D. and M.A. degrees. Students are generally admitted to the Ph.D. program, while admission to the M.A. is intended for those with professional goals in other fields. Philosophy is noteworthy for its emphasis
on the individual student's research interests. With the help of an advisor,
students design their own program of study, which consists of the philosophy
major and either a "supporting program" or a minor. The minor
or supporting program, drawn at least in part from a department or departments
other than Philosophy, complements the student's research focus. At the
same time, the Department provides students with a broad base of knowledge
through required coursework. Ph.D. students take courses from four main
areas: history of philosophy, logic, ELMS (epistemology, philosophy of
language, metaphysics, philosophy of science), and value theory. These
four areas provide a firm foundation for research and teaching beyond
the Ph.D. Below are descriptions of the Ph.D. and M.A. requirements. For any specific questions not covered here, contact Anita Wallace, Assistant to the Director of Graduate Studies, walla027@umn.edu. No minimum credits are required for the Ph.D., though specific philosophy courses are required that total 26-28 credits; 24 thesis credits are also required. Successful second-year departmental review represents passing the preliminary written examination. Successful third-year departmental review, which includes passing a three-paper examination, represents passing the preliminary oral examination. Students then write and defend a dissertation proposal and later defend a dissertation at the final oral examination. Click here for a printable version of the Ph.D. requirements. Language Requirements—None. Minor Requirements for Students Majoring in Other Fields—A doctoral minor requires 12 course credits in philosophy approved by the director of graduate studies in philosophy. Programs are tailored to meet the interests and needs of the student.
The M.A. is offered under two plans: Plan A involves coursework and a thesis; Plan B substitutes a three-paper project and additional coursework for the thesis. Plan A requires 14 course credits in philosophy, 6 course credits outside the department, and 10 thesis credits. Plan B requires 24 course credits in philosophy, 6 course credits outside the department, and three Plan B papers. Click here for a printable version of the M.A. requirements. Language Requirements—None. Final Exam—The final exam is oral. Minor Requirements for Students Majoring in Other Fields—A master's minor requires 6 course credits in philosophy approved by the director of graduate studies in philosophy. Programs are tailored to meet the interests and needs of the student. |
Website questions or comments: pwhanks@umn.edu |
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