PhD Philosophy at Indiana University Bloomington

The PhD in Philosophy integrates serious work in the history of philosophy with contemporary philosophy and prepares students for a career of research and teaching, with conference presentations and publications. Research strengths include the history of philosophy, metaphysics and epistemology (including logic), and value theory.

Faculty: College of Arts and Sciences  |  Department: Philosophy  |  Duration: 90 credit hours; coursework normally finished within six semesters of full-time enrolment; qualifying exam by sixth semester  |  Intake: Fall; domestic deadline January 15, international deadline December 1 (applications for AY 2027-28 open September 1, 2026)  |  Location: Bloomington, IN, United States

What you will study

Proseminar in the first fall semester, nine units of distribution requirements across four areas, four units of concentration, and a minor of typically four courses in another department. 15 to 16 courses in total, a qualifying essay and oral exam with the dissertation prospectus course P804, and a dissertation defense.

Career pathways

Research and teaching careers.

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