Masters Degree in Philosophy

The Department of Philosophy at Duquesne University was one of the first graduate programs in the United States to emphasize the concentrated study of phenomenology and contemporary Continental philosophy. The current program continues the commitment to this distinctive orientation. We emphasize, in addition, a thorough grounding in the history of philosophy.

The M.A. Program prepares students for further graduate study in philosophy, as well as in other areas. It is available to all students who have a serious interest in philosophy beyond the B.A.

Requirements for Admission to the M.A.:

• Bachelor's degree in philosophy, or in a closely related area in the humanities, from an accredited college or university. Students must submit 2 official transcripts of academic work from each institution attended.

• GRE scores  [school code (2196), department code (2801)].
• At least three letters of recommendation.
• Writing sample of no more than 3000 words.
• A statement of intent as to why you want to study Philosophy and why in particular at Duquesne University.
• It is helpful if entering students have reading knowledge of at least one of the following: French, German, Greek, or Latin.
• Complete applications must be received by April 15 for students entering the following fall semester.
• Please see Graduate School Policies and Programs for additional information; this is particularly important for international students.

• • All application materials must be sent to:

  McAnulty College and Graduate School of Liberal Arts
  Graduate Office
  Duquesne University
  600 Forbes Avenue
  Pittsburgh, PA 15282

Requirements for Completion of the M.A.:

• A minimum of 30 graduate credit hours, which must include one 3 credit course in each of the four historical areas: ancient, medieval, modern and contemporary. 6 of the 30 graduate credit hours may be used to write a thesis.
• Language Requirement: Demonstrated reading knowledge of one of the following languages: Greek, Latin, German, or French. Normally, one of the languages must be German or French.
• Statute of Limitations: All work leading to a Master's degree shall be completed within six years after matriculation.
• Transferred Graduate Credit: With the approval of the Chair of the Department, graduate work done at other accredited institutions may be offered in partial fulfillment of course requirements, provided the grade is not lower than a B. After a reasonable amount of time has elapsed to observe the student's work at Duquesne, a maximum of six credits may be accepted towards the M.A. Degree.

M.A. Funding

• The department does not award MA assistantships but does offer partial tuition waivers between 3-9 credits per year, depending on funding, for some MA students who qualify for them on a competitive basis.

Application Forms

1. To apply online, please fill out and submit the appropriate free online application form:

U.S. citizens and permanent residents (Green Card holders) complete the Free Domestic Online Application.

International applicants who are NOT U.S. citizens or permanent residents (Green Card holders) complete the Free International Online Application.

There is no fee to apply on line. We will accept your supporting application materials through Interfolio, you can find out more about Interfolio at www.interfolio.com.

Mail-In Forms

2. Please download the Philosophy Graduate Admission Application Form, fill it out, and mail to the address on the bottom of the form.

3. Please download three copies of the Letter of Recommendation Form and send to your references.