PHILO-PHD - Philosophy (PhD)

Philosophy concerns itself with fundamental problems. Some are abstract and deal with the nature of truth, justice, value, and knowledge; others are more concrete, and their study may help guide conduct or enhance understanding of other subjects. Philosophy also examines the efforts of past thinkers to understand the world and people’s experiences.

Although it may appear to be an assortment of disciplines, there are features common to all philosophical inquiry. These include an emphasis on methods of reasoning and how judgments are formed, criticizing and organizing beliefs, and the nature and role of fundamental concepts.

Students of almost any discipline can find something in philosophy relevant to their specialties. In the sciences, it provides a framework within which the foundations and scope of a scientific theory can be studied, and it may even suggest directions for future development. Since philosophical ideas have significantly influenced human endeavors, including artistic, political, and economic, students of the humanities and social sciences should find their understanding deepened by acquaintance with philosophy.

The Department of Philosophy offers an MA and a PhD degree. Graduate Degrees describes the university’s basic requirements for the MA and PhD degrees. Graduate students are expected to meet standards of professional behavior, including: being present on campus to meet the academic and research expectations of the degree program; communicating in a timely, respectful and professional manner; complying with institutional policies and procedures; and participating appropriately in the program’s community. Graduate students are expected to familiarize themselves with applicable university policy and degree program requirements.

Prospective graduate students should see the Office of Graduate Admissions website for information and application materials.