The Master of Arts in Philosophy at Southern Illinois University is for students who wish to pursue advanced philosophical inquiry, whether as a stepping stone to doctoral studies or for its intrinsic intellectual value. You will engage deeply with complex ideas, developing your ability to analyse arguments, construct rigorous reasoning, and articulate sophisticated perspectives on fundamental questions. This postgraduate degree is ideal for those who value critical thinking, thorough investigation, and the pursuit of knowledge for its own sake, preparing you for further academic challenges or intellectually demanding careers.
This full-time, on-campus Master of Arts degree is typically completed over two years. You will fulfil course work requirements, including at least 50% at the 500 level or above, and engage in independent research. A significant component involves the preparation and defence of an original thesis, approximately 40-60 pages in length, under the guidance of a faculty member and committee. You will graduate with enhanced research, analytical, and writing skills, well-prepared for doctoral programs or roles requiring advanced critical thinking and philosophical expertise.