About Master’s Program,
The Department of Philosophy at the University of Arkansas offers an M.A. and a Ph.D. in philosophy. Our M.A. and Ph.D. programs are actually distinct programs. The M.A. program is a two-year program, and the PhD program is a three-year program; students must have an M.A. in philosophy to qualify for the Ph.D. program. While we have rolling admissions, the deadline for full consideration for funding is January 15. Students in either program can concentrate in history of philosophy (including ancient, medieval, modern and contemporary), metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, social and political philosophy, philosophy of language, philosophy of mind, philosophy of religion, and/or philosophy of science.
Master’s Program Degree Eligibility with GPA,
- 27 total hours of coursework with a cumulative GPA of 3.00 or better. These hours must include:
- Satisfaction of the course distribution requirement, which is as follows: one course each in ancient Greek philosophy, modern philosophy, value theory, and metaphysics/epistemology. Only courses in which the student earns a grade of “B” or better will count towards fulfilling the course distribution requirement. A student may petition the graduate committee to take an exam in one or more of the above areas which, if passed, would satisfy the distribution requirement for the area(s) in question.
- Symbolic Logic I or II with a grade of “C” or better, or equivalent, or exam in symbolic logic.
- Nine hours of course work in graduate seminars.
- An acceptable thesis and a successful oral examination before the thesis committee. With the approval of the graduate committee, the oral exam may be taken a second time.
Master’s Funding Coverage,
Teaching assistantships are available that provide full tuition remission and an annual stipend of $16,000 for MA students and $16,000 for PhD students. Graduate assistants usually teach Introduction to Philosophy, Introduction to Ethics, or Logic. Applications for assistantships must be received by January 15 for consideration for the following fall.
The Graduate School also has generous fellowships available for select PhD students. To be considered for these you must apply by January 15. Information about doctoral fellowships can be found here.
Application Requirement,
Application is a two-part process. Submit application form, fee, transcripts, and at least three confidential letters of recommendation to the Graduate School. Send a sample of written work and statement of purpose directly to the Philosophy Graduate Studies Director, listed below. Applicants seeking a teaching assistantship should submit an assistantship application form to the Philosophy Department as well. The Graduate School has additional requirements for International students.
Application Deadline,
Jan 15, 2025
Application Fee,
Application Fee, $75.00
