Degree of Master of Arts

The program for the MA degree consists of a minimum of four full-course equivalents in philosophy (eight semester courses). At least one of these full-course equivalents must be in History of Philosophy, and at least one must be in Contemporary Problems of Philosophy. In the first term and again in the second, one graduate course will be designated for MA students only.  All full-time MA students will be required to take these courses. Students may take up to one full course equivalent (usually two half-courses) as Independent Studies Courses as part of the degree. These must be done with a faculty member of the Department, but only when suitable regular courses are not available. With the permission of the Graduate Coordinator, an MA student may take one half-course course in other graduate units at the University of Toronto. In certain cases, an applicant whose background in philosophy is deficient may be admitted to the MA program but required to take one or two additional half-courses, possibly at the undergraduate level.

Each MA student is assigned an Advisor, who will recommend a suitable program of philosophy courses and will be responsible for overseeing the student’s progress. It is possible for a full-time student to complete all requirements for the MA degree in philosophy in two terms. However, the Department encourages MA students to take no more than three full-course equivalents during the fall and spring sessions and to complete the remaining course work during the summer session. Part-time enrolment in the MA program is permitted, in which case the requirements for the degree must be completed within five academic years.

For more details on our policies and requirements concerning the MA program, see here.