MA Philosophical Foundations of Physics at Columbia University

Programme overview

The Departments of Physics and Philosophy jointly offer this free-standing MA for students interested in the relationship between the philosophy of science and the foundations of physics. It suits graduates in physics or philosophy aiming at research on the conceptual foundations of modern physics.

Faculty: Graduate School of Arts and Sciences | Department: Departments of Philosophy and Physics | Duration: 2 semesters (ten courses) full-time; up to 8 semesters part-time | Intake: Fall (deadline 22 April 2027) and Spring (deadline 29 October 2026) | Study mode: full-time / part-time | Location: New York, NY, United States

What you will study

The degree can be completed in two semesters (ten courses) of full-time study or within a maximum of eight semesters part-time.

Career pathways

PhD study in physics or philosophy and research careers; also teaching or science journalism.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

At least two undergraduate courses in philosophy and 24 points of physics. Statement of academic purpose, personal statement, resume, writing sample of up to 20 pages on physics, philosophy or philosophy of science, three letters of evaluation from academic sources, transcripts. GRE General not required. International applicants whose undergraduate degree is from an institution in a country where English is not the official language submit TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo English Test scores. Fall deadline 22 April 2027; spring deadline 29 October 2026.

Intake: Fall (deadline 22 April 2027) and Spring (deadline 29 October 2026)

Duration: 2 semesters (ten courses) full-time; up to 8 semesters part-time

Apply through the official page: https://www.gsas.columbia.edu/content/prospective-students

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