Master’s in Philosophy
Online

<a href="https://www.onlinemasterscolleges.com/masters-in-philosophy-online/">Philosophy Online</a>

College Name & Address	Tuition	Graduation Rate
#1 Biola University 13800 Biola Ave, La Mirada, California 90639	$11,772	74%
#2 Holy Apostles College 33 Prospect Hill Road, Cromwell, Connecticut 06416	$4,320	N/A
#3 Johns Hopkins University 3400 N Charles St, Baltimore, Maryland 21218	$57,010	93%
#4 Arizona State University University Drive and Mill Avenue, Tempe, Arizona 85287	$11,720	63%
#5 Rutgers University 406 Penn, Camden, New Jersey 08102	$17,736	65%
#6 California State University 18111 Nordhoff St, Northridge, California 91330	$7,176	55%
#7 University of Illinois, Springfield One University Plaza, Springfield, Illinois 62703	$8,247	54%
#8 California Institute of Integral Studies 1453 Mission Street, San Francisco, California 94103	$21,708	N/A
#9 American Public University 111 W Congress St, Charles Town, West Virginia 25414	$6,660	40%
#10 Auburn University at Montgomery 7440 East Drive, Montgomery, Alabama 36117	$7,578	34%
#11 Faulkner University 5345 Atlanta Hwy, Montgomery, Alabama 36109	$10,350	33%
#12 SUNY Empire State College Two Union Ave, Saratoga Springs, New York 12866	$11,310	25%

Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available

<a href="https://www.onlinemasterscolleges.com/masters-in-philosophy-online/">Philosophy Online</a>

College Name & Address	Tuition	Graduation Rate
#1 Holy Apostles College 33 Prospect Hill Road, Cromwell, Connecticut 06416	$4,320	NA
#2 American Public University 111 W Congress St, Charles Town, West Virginia 25414	$6,660	40%
#3 California State University 18111 Nordhoff St, Northridge, California 91330	$7,176	55%
#4 Auburn University at Montgomery 7440 East Drive, Montgomery, Alabama 36117	$7,578	34%
#5 University of Illinois, Springfield One University Plaza, Springfield, Illinois 62703	$8,247	54%
#6 Faulkner University 5345 Atlanta Hwy, Montgomery, Alabama 36109	$10,350	33%
#7 SUNY Empire State College Two Union Ave, Saratoga Springs, New York 12866	$11,310	25%
#8 Arizona State University University Drive and Mill Avenue, Tempe, Arizona 85287	$11,720	63%
#9 Biola University 13800 Biola Ave, La Mirada, California 90639	$11,772	74%
#10 Rutgers University 406 Penn, Camden, New Jersey 08102	$17,736	65%
#11 California Institute of Integral Studies 1453 Mission Street, San Francisco, California 94103	$21,708	NA
#12 Johns Hopkins University 3400 N Charles St, Baltimore, Maryland 21218	$57,010	93%

Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available

A Master’s in Philosophy (MPhil) offers a profound exploration of philosophical inquiries, delving into the fundamental aspects of knowledge, ethics, reality, and existence. This postgraduate program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of core philosophical areas, including metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, and political philosophy. Emphasizing critical thinking, the curriculum encourages students to question and analyze diverse human thought and experience aspects. Historical perspectives are integral, focusing on significant philosophers and their contributions over time. They develop strong analytical and research skills, engaging in seminars and discussions to exchange ideas and deepen their understanding. 

Specialization options allow for a tailored focus, and the program prepares graduates for further academic pursuits, including doctoral studies. Beyond academia, it opens doors to diverse career paths where analytical thinking and ethical reasoning are valued. The Master’s in Philosophy is an academic pursuit and a transformative journey into profound philosophical exploration.

Curriculum and Skills Gained in Masters in Philosophy Online Programs

The coursework of each Master’s in Philosophy online program varies depending on the college and the program. These variations can be severe and confusing, and choosing a program tailored to individual needs, including career paths, is always wise. Some courses tend to be covered at the surface level. In contrast, some others may dive deeper into a subject or topic, depending on whether the program is an MA in Philosophy, a Master of Liberal Arts, or a Master of Humanities, and so on. In general, a Master’s in Philosophy or interdisciplinary degree that covers Philosophy would have introductory coursework coupled with electives and, in some cases, a thesis. Some colleges will require students to take one or more Writing and Research skills courses as a prerequisite. The philosophy curricula differ by college; however, some standard courses include:

Epistemology and Metaphysics
This course delves into the foundational branches of philosophy—epistemology and metaphysics. Students explore the nature of knowledge (epistemology) and the fundamental nature of reality (metaphysics). Discussions include theories of truth, belief, existence, and the relationship between the mind and the world.

Ethics and Moral Philosophy
Examining the principles that govern human behavior, this course focuses on ethical theories and moral philosophies. Students critically engage with questions of right and wrong, moral reasoning, and applying ethical principles to practical situations.

Political Philosophy
In this course, students explore the theoretical foundations of political systems and ideologies. Discussions cover topics such as political authority, justice, rights, and the role of the state. Critical thinkers and influential political theories are analyzed.

Philosophy of Mind
Investigating the nature of consciousness and mental processes, this course explores questions related to the mind-body relationship. Students examine theories of perception, consciousness, identity, and the philosophy behind cognitive science.

Philosophy of Language
This course delves into the philosophy of language, addressing questions about meaning, reference, and communication. Students explore the nature of language, linguistic analysis, and theories that underpin the relationship between language and thought.

Some additional courses that are available across programs are:

1. Value Theory and Symbols
2. Moral Philosophy
3. Philosophy of Mind, Language, Linguistics, and Metaphysics
4. Philosophy of Science, Methodology, and Epistemology
5. Science, Ecology, and Contested Knowledge
6. Philosophy of Religion
7. Formal Philosophy and Philosophical Logic
8. Moral Philosophy
9. Philosophy of Theology, and Personal Foundations for Spiritual Formation
10. Gods and Monsters: Understanding Power
11. Philosophy of Social Identities
12. History of Modern and Contemporary Philosophy
13. History of Ancient and Medieval Philosophy
14. Human Person and Psychological Development
15. Love, Death, and Annihilation Gender
16. Science and Magic: The Varied Modes of Knowing and Believing

Apart from Philosophy-related electives, some colleges offer interdisciplinary electives that help develop formal skills for supporting thesis research. Interested students can choose from Model Theory, Cognitive Neuroscience, Machine Learning, Probability and Mathematical Statistics, and many more.

In addition to satisfying the typical admission criteria for doctoral programs in Philosophy, graduates from online Philosophy courses showcase a diverse set of skills, varying based on the type of program pursued. These skills include:

Advanced Critical Thinking
Graduates exhibit heightened critical thinking abilities, enabling them to assess complex philosophical problems, analyze arguments, and develop nuanced perspectives.

Research Proficiency
Students demonstrate advanced research skills, engaging in extensive scholarly inquiry during their master’s studies. This includes literature reviews, source evaluations, and the synthesis of diverse philosophical perspectives.

Effective Communication
Clear and articulate communication is a hallmark of graduates. They can convey intricate philosophical ideas in writing and through oral presentations, fostering meaningful dialogues in academic and professional settings.

Philosophical Writing Mastery
Graduates are adept at crafting well-structured and compelling philosophical essays. They have honed their skills in presenting coherent arguments, supporting claims with evidence, and adhering to rigorous academic writing standards.

Specialization Expertise
Depending on their chosen specialization, graduates possess in-depth knowledge and expertise in specific branches of philosophy, such as metaphysics, ethics, political philosophy, or epistemology.

Interdisciplinary Understanding
Recognizing the interconnectedness of knowledge, graduates display an interdisciplinary mindset, drawing connections between philosophy and other academic disciplines to enrich their philosophical perspectives.

Teaching Proficiency
For those inclined toward academia, graduates are equipped with teaching skills gained through experiences in instructing, guiding discussions, and mentoring students during their master’s program.

Ethical Reasoning
Ethical reasoning is a fundamental component of their skill set. Graduates can navigate complex ethical dilemmas, applying philosophical frameworks to assess and address moral issues.

Masters in Philosophy Degree Types

Interestingly, there are very few online Master’s in Philosophy Degrees as a subject or major. However, other learning streams and departments, such as Humanities and Liberal Arts, will cover similar ground and include philosophy in their curricula. Such programs will take a multi-disciplinary approach, blending subjects such as philosophy, theology, social sciences, law, politics, and more. Some of the other Master’s Degrees students could consider are:

• Master of Arts
• Master of Humanities
• Master of Liberal Arts
• Master of Liberal Studies

Although these degrees are not identical, it is essential to remember that they all follow the same pattern of using the humanities to investigate a more profound meaning and value of life. While most Master’s programs focus on a particular area of study, philosophy-based programs expand the student’s perspective on life by examining a variety of philosophy and other related topics. The advantage of this is that one can choose from a wide range of careers rather than be restricted to a few.

Some of the alternatives to a Master’s in Philosophy are:

• Master of Humanities
• Master of Arts in Bioethics
• Master of Science in Bioethics
• Master’s in Liberal Studies: Philosophy and Religion
• Master of Arts in Christian Spirituality
• Master of Arts in Philosophy, Cosmology, and Consciousness
• Master of Science: Epistemology Ethics and Mind
• Master of Science: Business Ethics and Compliance

As for a pure Master’s in Philosophy, there are two significant degrees to choose from – a Master of Arts or MA in Philosophy, or a Master of Science or MS in Philosophy. There is also a third type of degree some Universities offer – Master of Philosophy or MPhil.

Specializations in Masters in Philosophy Programs

Although, in most cases, a Master’s in Philosophy degree should be adequate for a wide range of careers, specializations add incredible value to the degree and make it possible for students to work in a niche field of Philosophy. Among a host of such specializations and concentrations are:

Specialization	Description	Careers
Epistemology and Metaphysics	This specialization focuses on the nature of knowledge, belief, and reality. It explores truth, existence, and the relationship between mind and reality.	Scholars in this field often become philosophers, researchers, or academics, contributing to exploring fundamental truths.
Ethics and Moral Philosophy	Students examine theories of morality, ethical principles, and the nature of good and evil. They also explore applied ethics in various contexts.	Graduates may pursue careers as ethicists, philosophers, or consultants, guiding individuals and organizations through moral dilemmas.
Political Philosophy	This specialization investigates political theories, ideologies, and the philosophical foundations of governance. One analyzes concepts like justice, authority, and power.	Political philosophers may work as policy analysts, guiding governments or organizations in ethical decision-making and governance principles.
Philosophy of Mind	Students explore the nature of consciousness, mental processes, and the mind-body relationship. They address questions about perception, identity, and cognition.	Those specializing in the philosophy of mind may become researchers, cognitive scientists, or philosophers contributing to our understanding of consciousness.
Philosophy of Language	Students examine language, meaning, and communication. They analyze the relationship between language and thought, linguistic structures, and semiotics.	Linguistic philosophers often become semioticians, academic scholars, or researchers, delving into the intricate connection between language and cognition.

Timeline for graduation from Masters in Philosophy Online Programs

Graduating from a Master’s in Philosophy program marks the culmination of an enriching intellectual journey. The duration of the program can vary based on factors like enrollment status and individual pacing. Full-time students typically complete the program in 1 to 2 years, while part-time students may extend their studies over 2 to 4 years. For those seeking an expedited path, accelerated programs offer the possibility of graduation in approximately one year.

Accelerated Masters in Philosophy Online Programs

An accelerated Master’s in Philosophy program is designed for students seeking an efficient and focused academic experience. Geared towards those with a robust academic background or professionals aiming to advance their philosophical expertise swiftly, these programs offer an expedited path to a graduate degree. Typically completed in about 12 to 18 months, accelerated formats prioritize intensity and concentration, condensing the traditional curriculum without compromising academic rigor. The University of Virginia ^[1] and Fordham University ^[2] are examples of universities offering accelerated philosophy programs.

Masters in Philosophy Online Programs Admission Requirements

Master’s in Philosophy requirements, when it comes to admissions, are mostly the same that are applicable for other Master’s programs. The first and foremost requirement is a Bachelor’s Degree, preferably with Philosophy as a major, or other Liberal Arts or Humanities-related Undergraduate Degrees are also appropriate. Also, students may need to take up any prerequisite coursework, especially if the Bachelor’s Degree does not meet the criteria. To get admitted to an online Master’s in Philosophy program, applicants might need some or all of these requirements:

To get admitted to an online Master’s in Philosophy program, applicants might need some or all of these requirements:

• A Bachelor’s Degree in Philosophy or Philosophy-related field.
• Required Prerequisite Coursework
• A minimum Grade-Point Average (GPA) of 3.3 and above (some have a lower requirement)
• Standardized Test Scores, if required, such as GRE or GMAT
• Letters of Recommendation
• Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose
• Entrance Essay or a Write-Up

Note: Students should always check the specifics of the program at the college they are applying to and also any additional or particular admission requirements that may be asked for.

Accreditation for Masters in Philosophy Online Programs

Accredited online philosophy degrees carry weight and count, especially when applying to doctoral programs. Therefore, students should always pay attention to accreditation and check with the college or read the program guide to see if a recognized and genuine body accredits the programs. Some of the accreditation bodies for a Master’s in Philosophy online program are:

• Association of Theological Schools (ATS) ^[3]
• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) ^[4]
• Connecticut Office of Higher Education (CTOHE) ^[5]

Universities are also typically accredited by one of six regional accreditation agencies in the U.S.:

• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Reading about accreditation and its importance is always advisable.

No GRE Masters in Philosophy Online Programs

A Master’s in Philosophy without Graduate Record Examination (GRE) requirements provides a pathway for individuals passionate about philosophical inquiry to pursue advanced education without requiring GRE scores. This alternative admission approach recognizes that a candidate’s academic potential and commitment to philosophical studies can be assessed through other means, such as academic records, letters of recommendation, and personal statements. Some colleges providing a no GRE master’s in philosophy online include: 

• Princeton University ^[6]
• Ohio University ^[7]

A Master’s in Philosophy without a Bachelor’s is nearly impossible! This is because all Universities require a Bachelor’s Degree in either Philosophy or a Philosophy-related field as a basis for admission to a graduate program. Even if one stumble across a university that does not require a Bachelor’s Degree, the chances are that they will require at least two years of full-time study in Philosophy, which roughly is about ten courses; plus, students will generally be required to maintain a GPA of 3.6 and above. In other cases, those masters in philosophy without a bachelor’s degree may not be an accredited program.

Free online Philosophy courses will not confer a Master’s Degree. However, they will help students already enrolled in a Master’s program by providing deeper insights into specific topics, subjects, and courses. Unfortunately, there are no free online Master’s Degree in Philosophy programs, complete with accreditation and certification, but there are courses that can complement such a degree. Here are a few resources to tap into for free online courses on Philosophy:

Course	Introduction to Logic and Critical Thinking Specialization [8]
Provided by	Coursera
Description	The course is an engaging and free online course designed to enhance participants’ logical reasoning and critical thinking skills. This specialized program is tailored for individuals seeking a comprehensive understanding of logic and the ability to think critically.

Course	A Life of Happiness and Fulfillment [9]
Provided by	Class Central
Description	The course is a transformative online program designed to explore the fundamental principles and practices contributing to a more joyful and fulfilling life. Developed by experts in positive psychology, this course aims to guide participants toward understanding the science of happiness and implementing practical strategies for lasting well-being.

Course	Indian & Tibetan River of Buddhism [10]
Provided by	edX
Description	The course comprehensively explores Buddhism’s historical and philosophical development, specifically focusing on the Indian and Tibetan traditions. Participants in this course can expect to learn about various aspects of Buddhism, including its origins, essential teachings, practices, and the spread of Buddhism from India to Tibet.

The cost of a Master’s in Philosophy online program largely depends on the state and College one enrolls in. Online programs can range from $18,000 to $36,000 and beyond, which is inexpensive by no stretch of the imagination. Educational expenses increase yearly, necessitating students to explore external funding sources. The few listed here should be considered as probable funding options among many others available:

Know how to finance advanced education by reading the best Financial Guide, and be aware of Scholarship Scams.

Scholarships for Masters in Anthropology Online Programs

Securing funding for a Master’s in Anthropology can ease the financial burden of pursuing higher education. Various scholarships are available for students in the field of anthropology, offered by institutions, foundations, and organizations. Here are some scholarship opportunities that aspiring anthropology students can explore:

The Leakey Foundation’s Research Grants ^[12]

The Leakey Foundation’s Research Grants are typically open to doctoral-level researchers, including Ph.D. candidates and postdoctoral scholars. Master’s students may also be eligible in some cases. The grants provide financial support for various aspects of research projects, such as fieldwork, laboratory studies, data collection, and analysis. The funding can be crucial for students and scholars conducting field research.
Award: Varies
Application Deadline: Fall, annually

The National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship Program ^[13]
The National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP) is a prestigious and highly competitive fellowship program that provides financial support to graduate students pursuing research-based master’s and doctoral degrees in various STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. In addition to financial support, the program provides opportunities for professional development and access to resources to enhance the graduate education experience.
Award: $37,000
Application Deadline: Varies

Wenner-Gren Foundation Dissertation Fieldwork Grants ^[14]

The Wenner-Gren Foundation Dissertation Fieldwork Grants are prestigious awards financially supporting doctoral students conducting original research in anthropology. Administered by the Wenner-Gren Foundation for Anthropological Research, these grants aim to facilitate dissertation fieldwork projects that advance anthropological knowledge and understanding.
Award: $20,000
Application Deadline: Varies

A graduate of a Master’s in Philosophy online program can pick from various possible careers. However, one may have to keep an open mind while exploring career options, as many industries and job profiles may make it harder to land a specific kind of job. Students can seek jobs in law, business, government, education, journalism, public administration, healthcare, advertising, etc. Here are some typical careers graduates can pursue with an online Master in Philosophy degree:

• School Counselor
• High School Teacher
• Newspaper Journalist
• Recruitment Consultant
• Pastor
• Criminal Lawyer
• Senior Researcher
• Screenwriter
• Psychotherapist
• Academic Writer
• Marketing Executive
• Freelance Writer
• Religious Scholar
• International Lawyer
• Archaeologist
• Director of Religious Education
• College Professor
• Theology or Philosophy Teacher
• Youth Minister

Some occupations that graduates of a philosophy master can pursue are mentioned below.

Occupation	Philosophy and Religion Teachers [15]
Skills	Critical thinking, communication, research, teaching, analytical, and writing skills.
Median Annual Salary	$85,330
Job Growth (up to 2032)	6% (faster than average)
Job Description	Philosophy Professors engage in advanced philosophical research, teach courses, mentor students, and contribute to academic publications. They foster critical thinking and philosophical inquiry among students.

Occupation	Anthropologists and Archeologists [16]
Skills	Analytical, communication, critical thinking, and physical stamina.
Median Annual Salary	$63,940
Job Growth (up to 2032)	4% (as fast as average)
Job Description	Anthropologists and archaeologists are vital in deciphering the intricacies of human existence, culture, and origins. Their roles involve carefully orchestrating cultural research plans and customizing data collection methodologies for particular regions, specialties, or projects. They methodically collect information through meticulous observations, interviews, and the analysis of documents, diligently preserving comprehensive records of their field observations.

Occupation	Postsecondary Teachers [17]
Skills	Critical thinking, interpersonal, resourcefulness, speaking, and writing skills.
Median Annual Salary	$80,840
Job Growth (up to 2032)	8% (as fast as average)
Job Description	Postsecondary teachers play a vital role in shaping the educational experience for students in higher learning institutions. Their responsibilities extend beyond the classroom, encompassing the meticulous planning of instructional content, development of course outlines, and adherence to academic standards.

Occupation	Clergy [18]
Skills	Critical thinking, interpersonal, speaking, and writing skills.
Median Annual Salary	$60,180
Job Growth (up to 2032)	Not Available
Job Description	Clergy members, often called religious leaders or ministers, play a significant role in providing spiritual guidance and pastoral care within religious communities. Their responsibilities extend beyond leading worship services to encompass various aspects of congregational life.

A Master’s in Philosophy online degree is relatively broad-based. Adding a concentration or a professional certificate could help shape a specific career and tailor the degree to suit each one’s needs – personal and professional. While professional certifications might not be tied directly to philosophy, individuals can enhance their qualifications through additional education, workshops, and relevant experiences in their chosen career paths. Philosophy graduates tailor their skill sets and experiences to align with their specific professional goals and the demands of their chosen fields.

In almost all cases, licensure is optional to practice Philosophy or work in its related field. However, teaching Philosophy at the secondary and post-secondary levels may require additional training and licensing.

Keeping up with the latest research and best practices in Philosophy is essential, so joining a professional association is always a good thing to do. This will provide Master’s in Philosophy online graduates the opportunity to network with like-minded people and get the help they need to advance in their careers. Here are a few Philosophy-related resources to look at and consider:

• American Philosophy Association ^[19]
  The American Philosophy Association (APA) is a leading organization dedicated to advancing the discipline and profession of Philosophy. With a rich array of resources, including data, seminars, publications, and more, the APA is a hub for philosophers seeking to stay informed, engaged, and connected within the philosophical community.
• Society for Phenomenology and Existential Philosophy ^[20]
  The Society for Phenomenology and Existential Philosophy (SPEP) is a prominent platform for scholars interested in Continental Philosophy. SPEP provides online resources, publications, and books and hosts conferences, fostering a vibrant community for those exploring phenomenology and existentialism.
• American Association of Philosophy Teachers ^[21]
  For individuals passionate about teaching philosophy, the American Association of Philosophy Teachers (AAPT) offers valuable support. AAPT facilitates professional development for philosophy educators and enhances teaching practices through regular seminars, workshops, and abundant resource materials.
• American Philosophical Society ^[22]
  The American Philosophical Society (APS) is a distinguished organization that provides grants, conducts virtual programs, and offers the latest insights in philosophy. APS serves as a dynamic platform for scholars and researchers to engage in intellectual exchange and contribute to advancing philosophical knowledge.
• Philosophy of Science Association ^[23]
  The Philosophy of Science Association (PSA) stands as a comprehensive resource hub covering areas such as education, employment, funding, and journals within the philosophy of science. PSA fosters collaboration and exploration in the philosophy of the science community.
• Metaphysical Society of America (MSA) ^[24]
  The Metaphysical Society of America (MSA) brings together scholars interested in metaphysics, providing a forum for intellectual exchange, research, and discussion. MSA contributes to exploring fundamental questions about existence, reality, and being.
• Association for Symbolic Logic (ASL) ^[25]
  The Association for Symbolic Logic (ASL) is a crucial organization for scholars studying symbolic logic. ASL offers a platform for collaboration, disseminating research, and promoting advancements in symbolic logic.
• International Association for Environmental Philosophy (IAEP) ^[26]
  The International Association for Environmental Philosophy (IAEP) focuses on the intersection of philosophy and environmental issues. With a commitment to fostering environmental ethics and philosophical discussions, IAEP provides a platform for scholars to explore the relationship between humans and the environment.