MA Philosophy

MA in Philosophy (General Programme)

The MA Philosophy is designed for philosophy graduates who wish to develop an advanced competence in philosophy. You can choose to specialise in areas where the UCD School of Philosophy has particular expertise such as contemporary European (‘continental’) philosophy, analytic philosophy, classical philosophy, philosophy of law, political philosophy, philosophy of mind, cognitive science and the philosophy of embodiment. Through advanced training in philosophy, students will acquire valuable transferable skills for a professional career in business, government or the media.

The MA in Philosophy in UCD provides a solid foundation for further graduate study in top ranked doctoral programmes in philosophy. Faculty in the School have published widely and are prominent in international academic circles. In the past, the School has welcomed renowned figures such as Noam Chomsky, Hilary Putnam, John McDowell, Alasdair MacIntyre, Charles Taylor, Jürgen Habermas and Judith Butler. Students will become part of a thriving graduate community and enjoy a vibrant intellectual atmosphere in a supportive environment.

Programme Content and Structure

(A)  Option Modules (6)

The MA in Philosophy is the most flexible of our MA programs. In one year of full-time study (two years part-time), students can take any six modules from those on offer in the given year. See here for the latest list of available modules.

(B)  Dissertation

In addition, all students must complete a 12,000–15,000 word dissertation by mid-August. Students are encouraged to discuss possible topics with their lecturers as early as possible.

(opens in a new window)Entry Requirements for Taught MA Programmes

• A BA with a 2:1 or above (a GPA of approx. 3·2) in Philosophy, or international equivalent
  
  or
  
  
• A Joint Major BA with a 2:1 in Philosophy and a 2:2 or above in the second subject and
• A Postgraduate Diploma with a 2:1 or above in Philosophy

However, all applications are assessed on a case by case basis, and so students with a 2:2 in Philosophy should also consider applying.

Required Application Documents and What We Look For 

1. Two academic references: These should be from academic referees who can speak to your promise as an MA student. Referees may send their letters directly to (opens in a new window)philosophy@ucd.ie or you can upload them to the portal, depending on your referees’ preference. 
2. Writing sample: A philosophical essay or paper of up to 3,000 words (for example, an undergraduate essay submitted as part of your undergraduate degree on a philosophical topic of your choice). We assess the quality of arguments, intellectual maturity, and clarity of style.
3. Statement of personal interest: A short statement (maximum 1,000 words) explaining your motivation for further study, research interests, and your reasons for applying to UCD School of Philosophy.
4. Academic transcripts: Official transcripts for all university-level study. These help us to evaluate your coursework performance, grades, and consistency of achievement.
5. Proof of English language proficiency: Fluency in written English is required. If you are not a native speaker of English and your secondary education or university degree has not been carried out in English, then you must have a minimum score of 6·5 IELTS (minimum of 6·0 in each band), and submit evidence of this in your application. Please consult this page for further details.