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Overview

The UBC Masters in Philosophy provides an opportunity for excellent students to study philosophy at an advanced level, to broaden their understanding of some fundamental questions, and to acquire the skills and knowledge that are necessary for the development their own philosophical research.

There are two routes by which a Masters degree in Philosophy can be gained at UBC: a thesis-based route and a coursework based one. 

The requirements of the coursework-based route are usually met by taking ten courses, with at least six of these being taught in the Department of Philosophy. Completion of the thesis-based route usually involves taking six courses, and then writing a thesis. In both routes it is normal for students to complete the degree within two years. 

Students have considerable flexibility as to the areas of philosophy in which they choose to specialize. Those wishing to study the work of philosophers writing in languages other than English have the opportunity to learn the languages in question. Most of our students also gain experience of teaching philosophy, through working as a teaching assistant in a variety of undergraduate courses.

What makes the program unique?

The UBC Department of Philosophy is home to a number of internationally celebrated thinkers, with expertise in a broad range of philosophical topics, and with a variety of unique perspectives on the arts, on the biological, social and psychological sciences, on language, on knowledge, on history, and on value.  All of the department’s faculty members work closely with the students who are enrolled in our graduate programs.

The UBC Philosophy Masters program provides a great degree of flexibility, enabling students to shape their study around their own areas of interest and expertise.   The department has a supportive, collegial, and philosophically inspiring culture.  Students have a range of opportunities to participate fully in its intellectual life. They are also encouraged to participate in the broader community of philosophers, with several sources of funding being available that enable students to present their research at international academic conferences.

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