Philosophy MA

About the MA in Philosophy at Loyola

The Master of Arts (MA) in Philosophy program offered through Loyola University Chicago's respected Department of Philosophy offers a unique array of benefits that result in powerful preparation for your future professional and academic pursuits.

Integrating a strong grounding in the history of philosophy with current debates in social and political philosophy, ethics, and contemporary philosophy, the Loyola master's degree in philosophy has a proud legacy of success within the field.

In addition to mentorship from world-renowned faculty and scholars, you will enjoy classes intentionally kept small; a first-year proseminar to position you for success at the graduate level; and an opportunity-rich setting in the heart of a vibrant community.

Program Structure

The MA in Philosophy program can be completed on a part-time or full-time basis. Classes are held at the Lake Shore Campus, located on Chicago's North Side, right along Lake Michigan in a diverse and dynamic residential area.

The master's in philosophy is a 10-course, 30-credit-hour program that requires at least one course in five areas, including ancient philosophy, medieval philosophy, classical modern philosophy, continental philosophy, and analytic philosophy.

Are you a current Loyola undergrad?

This program is eligible for an Accelerated Bachelor's to Master's degree. Earn a Master’s with only one extra year of study following the completion of your eligible undergraduate degree.

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Why Choose Loyola for Your MA in Philosophy?

A focus on philosophical pluralism for heightened doctoral preparation

The master's in philosophy was founded on generalist training in the history of philosophy with a particular emphasis on philosophical pluralism. Our approach gives you more relevant and focused preparation for specialized research at the doctoral level.

You will gain extensive preparation designed specifically to achieve your future goals through the program's first-year proseminar, research assistantships, and placement and professional development workshops offered to you throughout the year.

Earning your master's in philosophy on Loyola's Lake Shore Campus will place you in the heart of a vibrant philosophical community with opportunities for research, seminars, conferences, and lectures at world-renowned institutions throughout the Chicago area.

You will be part of a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming learning community where you will gain preparation for underrepresented fields, such as critical philosophy of race, feminism, and queer theory as well as through Minorities and Philosophy chapter activities.

As a student in the program you will be guided and mentored by nationally and internationally renowned philosophy scholars. You will have life-changing opportunities to work closely with them through research assistantships, workshops, and seminars.

The program can be completed as part of an accelerated BA/MA track, providing you with a cost-effective option for earning your bachelor's and master's degrees in just five years, shorter than the time it would take to complete both degrees separately.

Philosophy Department

The Department of Philosophy houses one of the largest philosophy faculties in the United States, representing a distinctively pluralistic approach to philosophy focusing on the critical inquiry of diverse philosophical topics in a humble, respectful and diverse climate. Find stories showcasing current students and graduates from the Philosophy MA program and learn more about why Loyola is right for you.

Department WebsiteDepartment News and Stories

Meet the Faculty

Loyola is proud to have talented and nationally-recognized scholar-teachers as part of our diverse community of exceptional faculty, students and staff. Loyola faculty are known for their commitment to teaching, the dissemination of knowledge through innovative and interdisciplinary scholarly research, and a commitment to social justice and cura personalis, or care for the whole person. Visit the department faculty and staff directory to learn more about the teachers and mentors involved with the Philosophy MA program.

Faculty

Curriculum and Program Outcomes

While courses for the Philosophy MA program may vary from semester to semester, Loyola’s extensive Academic Catalog will always house the official listing of courses, programs of study, academic policies, degree requirements, and specialization or concentration options.

Additionally, this resource will provide Philosophy MA learning outcomes, showcasing the commitment to specific skills and growth graduates can expect to achieve following completion of the program.

2023-2024 Catalog
Browse Academic Catalog

Costs, Scholarships, and Aid

Loyola University Chicago is committed to making your graduate and professional studies a reality. Our Cost & Financial Aid page can help better inform you about the costs and potential funding opportunities through scholarships, loans, and aid for graduate and professional education.

If you are a current Loyola undergraduate or recent alum, you may be eligible for a Returning Rambler discount. Learn more and see if you qualify on our Returning Rambler Scholarship page.

Tuition and Costs

The estimated tuition and fees for the Philosophy MA totals $34950.00, or 30 credit hours at a cost of $1,165.00 per credit hour. Please note that tuition and fees for all of Loyola's academic programs are subject to change.

For more detailed information about tuition and fees, and a breakdown of how these costs are calculated on a yearly basis, please visit Tuition and Fees from the Office of the Bursar.

The Graduate School Scholarships

Information about funding opportunities within The Graduate School can be found on The Graduate School website.

Appointments and Events

Whether you’re just beginning your search, in the midst of the application process, or eager to explore our graduate and professional programs, our admissions staff is here to assist you every step of the way.

Schedule an Appointment

The Graduate School offers graduate open houses, information sessions, individual appointments, open Zoom and text sessions, and a multitude of other ways to get to know us better.

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Visit and Connect With Us

With our visit opportunities, you can tour our beautiful Chicago campuses and learn more about Loyola's ties to one of the most prestigious cities in the world.

The Graduate School
To explore The Graduate School and Loyola digitally, follow us on social and read up on our recent news below.
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Application Process

Application Deadlines

The available start terms and corresponding application deadlines for the Philosophy MA are listed below. Please keep in mind that both the application and the required materials must be submitted by the specified deadline.

Fall & Spring: Rolling applications

Application Requirements

Application requirements for the Philosophy MA include:

  • Official Transcripts

  • 3 Letters of Recommendation

  • 3.0 Minimum GPA

  • Resume/CV

  • Statement of Purpose

  • Writing Sample

Statement of Purpose Details

Please write a brief statement describing your academic and research interests as well as your professional goals. Please note there is a writing sample requirement that needs to be completed in addition to this section.

Official Documents

Official transcripts are those that are sent directly by the college/university to Loyola University Chicago. Transcripts sent by the student to Loyola are considered unofficial documents, and while they may be utilized for initial review of your application, official transcripts are still required. Official documents should be sent by the institution to gradapp@luc.edu.

International Applicant Requirements

An official English language proficiency exam is required for international applicants whose native language is not English. If you have non-U.S. educational credentials, you are required to submit an official transcript evaluation. The transcript evaluation cannot be waived.

Please visit our International Applicant Requirements page for specific information regarding the application process for international students.

International Applicant Requirements
Start Your Application

Applying online to the Philosophy MA program is a swift, uncomplicated, and cost-free process. After submission, you can proceed to send and upload any additional requirements.

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