The Department of Philosophy's M.A. program is one of the top terminal M.A. programs in philosophy in the United States. Our faculty offer core graduate training in philosophy in the broadly analytic tradition, with particular strengths in the history of philosophy, value theory, and philosophy of science. Emerging areas of strength include core analytic philosophy (e.g. metaphysics and philosophy of language) and environmental philosophy. Many of our students enter with the intention of enriching their philosophical background and then going on to PhD studies in philosophy elsewhere.
The M.A. degree requires a minimum of 30 credit hours of graduate level work. Students may complete the requirements for the M.A. degree through either the thesis or non-thesis tracks. Students pursuing the thesis track write a thesis and take at least 24 hours of regular coursework. Students pursuing the non-thesis track take at least 27 hours of regular coursework and complete a set of comprehensive exams at the conclusion of the two year program.
September 2025
Virginia Tech
925 Prices Fork Road,
BLACKSBURG,
Virginia,
24061, United States
August 2025
Blacksburg Campus
800 Washington St. SW,
Blacksburg,
Virginia,
24061, South, United States
Admission to the Graduate School is contingent upon receipt of a four year (or 3 year degree recognized by the Bologna process) bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university and the presentation of evidence of potential to pursue graduate work.
Minimum GPA: 3.0
Testing Requirements:
TOEFL iBT 80.0
Paper 550.0
Computer 213.0
A minimum IELTS score of 6.5 is required for admission.
Application Deadlines: Fall: Feb 01.
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.
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