The Department of Philosophy offers courses of study that lead to a Master of Arts in Philosophy. Master's students can specialize in applied ethics, particularly animal welfare and environmental ethics; comparative philosophy; ethical theory; history of modern philosophy; metaphysics; aesthetics; or epistemology. Students interested in graduate work should refer to the Graduate and Professional Bulletin and the Department of Philosophy.
Learning Outcomes for the Master of Arts in Philosophy, Plan A
Outcome 1: Critical Thinking Skills
Recognize, evaluate, and construct arguments in a way that correctly applies logical methodology and evaluative standards and demonstrates an ability to identify underlying assumptions, ambiguous or contested terms, and potential objections to a thesis.
Outcome 2: Content Mastery
Explain, orally or in writing, the current state of knowledge and research, referencing the major works and positions in the field, on topics within three areas of philosophy: (1) value theory, broadly construed; (2) metaphysics, epistemology, and related fields; and (3) history of philosophy.
Outcome 3: Research Skills
Conduct independent research on a philosophical topic, identifying the major texts, positions, and arguments concerning that topic.
Outcome 4: Writing Skills
Write an original philosophical paper that contributes to knowledge in some field of philosophical study and is of sufficient quality to be presented at a professional conference or published in a professional journal.
Outcome 5: Oral Communication Skills
Give an oral presentation that clearly and effectively explains philosophical arguments, issues, and positions in a manner demonstrating a broad competency in the field.

