The Department of Philosophy offers two distinct programs leading to the degrees of Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy. Graduate programs combine areas of applied philosophy, such as philosophy of medicine, law, business, and the environment, with training in the appropriate historical, methodological, and theoretical approaches to traditional areas of philosophy, such as moral and political philosophy, epistemology, metaphysics, and logic. The programs are flexible both with respect to areas of specialization and career interests.
D program is an integrated six-year program designed for students working toward the doctorate.
The M.A. is granted as part of the total program. The special M.A. program is intended for students who have no intention to proceed to do doctoral studies in philosophy. As an integral part of their studies, students may undertake internships involving work of up to 15 weeks in non-academic settings such as federal or state agencies, hospitals, corporations, charitable institutions, research centers, and foundations, or take a substantial number of courses in some other discipline. The preferred foundation for graduate work is a major or minor in philosophy. However, applicants with less than this level of preparation who have a strong interest in philosophy are encouraged to apply.