Philosophy

Overview

The University of Toledo's master's program in Philosophy focuses on preparing students for acceptance into competitive Ph.D. programs in Philosophy. 

Our M.A. students come from a wide variety of educational backgrounds. While most of our students have extensive experience in philosophy, it is not a requirement for acceptance. We look for strong students with advanced critical and analytical skills who have an interest in addressing philosophical problems from multiple perspectives. 

UToledo's Department of Philosophy is historically oriented and pluralistic. Faculty represents continental and analytic philosophical traditions. We are the perfect program for students who want to develop broad familiarity with diverse areas of philosophical research, including: 

1. American philosophy 
2. Bioethics 
3. Environmental ethics and issues surrounding sustainability 
4. History of western philosophy 
5. Philosophy of religion  
6. Philosophy of mind and cognitive science 
7. Philosophy of science, especially philosophy of biology and of mathematics 
8. Social and political philosophy 

During their second years, M.A. students continue course work and develop professional qualifications in an area of specialization. There are two options for completing the degree: 

• Thesis option — leads to the defense of a written master’s thesis 
• Exam option — leads to a written qualifying exam in contemporary philosophy 

Top Reasons to Study Philosophy at UToledo

Full tuition support.

Most full-time students in UToledo's master's Philosophy program receive a teaching assistantship (a full tuition waiver and stipend). 

Professional development.

First-year students work as teaching assistants for department faculty. Most second-year graduate students teach an introductory-level Philosophy course of their own. This opportunity isn't available in many M.A. programs in Philosophy. It can be of enormous value when applying to Ph.D. programs. 

The department also offers limited support for graduate students traveling to professional conferences.  

Outstanding placement record.

Students from UToledo's master's program have gone on to superior PhD programs and top-tier law schools. 

Continental philosophy

One of our program's strengths, setting our program apart from other M.A. programs in Philosophy. We have faculty members with significant professional training, experience and connections in the continental tradition. Many of our graduate students choose to pursue research in that tradition.