PhD Philosophy at University of Massachusetts Amherst

Programme overview

A highly ranked MA/PhD programme preparing students for academic careers through rigorous original philosophical research alongside faculty. Students may receive the master's degree on completing the preliminary requirements other than the area examination.

Faculty: College of Humanities and Fine Arts | Department: Philosophy | Intake: Fall; application deadline early January (January 2 stated for 2025-26) | Study mode: full-time | Location: Amherst, MA, United States

What you will study

Coursework covers metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, logic and the history of philosophy. Preliminary requirements are extensive coursework, a starred paper, an area examination document and an oral area examination, followed by a dissertation. Students build teaching skills and take part in reading groups, a speaker series and the Philosophy for Kids programme.

Career pathways

Academic careers in philosophy.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

PhD Philosophy: complete application form, at least 3 letters of recommendation sent to the Graduate School, transcripts from every institution where 9 or more credits were taken, and a writing sample (PDF). The department does not require or consider GRE scores. The department does not admit new students to an MA programme; applicants who completed an MA elsewhere are considered. A strong undergraduate philosophy major, strong letters, writing sample and high GPA improve chances.

Tuition is charged per credit, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

Intake: Fall; application deadline early January (January 2 stated for 2025-26)

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