Master of Arts in Philosophy
The Master of Arts degree program in philosophy at Kent State University offers intensive, in-depth study in philosophy, with particular attention to the diversity and plurality of philosophical methods, perspectives, and modes of analysis, and their relation to the methodological concerns and interests of other disciplines. The M.A. in Philosophy is intended for persons interested in pursuing a terminal Master's degree in philosophy, persons interested in pursuing doctoral work in philosophy, and for persons wishing to supplement and enhance their work in other disciplines, practices, and degree programs. Three concentrations are offered: Culture/History, Ethics/Practice, and Interpretation/Method. Each concentration offers a thesis and a non-thesis research project option.
Admission Requirements:
In general, an undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) is required for admission to the graduate program. All applicants must submit GRE scores, three letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose when applying. Applicants intending to pursue the M.A. in philosophy as preparation for or as a supplement to work in another discipline, as well as applicants pursuing a terminal M.A., should present evidence of at least the equivalent of an undergraduate minor in philosophy (18 semester hours). Applicants without an undergraduate major or minor in philosophy should consult with the Graduate Coordinator before submitting application materials.
Program Requirements:
The M.A. degree in Philosophy requires 35 semester hours beyond the baccalaureate degree. There are four elements common to each concentration: 6 hours of "core" courses; 21 hours of concentration requirements and electives; a thesis or a non-thesis research project (6 hours for a thesis, variable for a non-thesis research project); and two hours of Colloquium.
Financial Assistance:
A limited number of graduate assistantships are available on a competitive basis. Graduate assistantships include a stipend and full tuition waiver (in-state or out-of-state tuition). March 15 is the application deadline to be considered for financial assistance. Kent State University is committed to provide all persons equal access to its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or identification as a disabled veteran, or veteran of the Vietnam era.
Annual Kent State University, May 4th, Philosophy Graduate Student Conference
The M.A. program introduces students to the practices of philosophy beyond only reading texts and writing papers. The Department of Philosophy at Kent State University annually sponsors and hosts the Kent State University, May 4th, Philosophy Graduate Student Conference. The graduate student conference is conceived, planned, and organized by philosophy graduate students. Planning for the conference includes a national "Call for Papers" soliciting submissions from graduate students in philosophy graduate programs from across the country and Canada. In addition to presentations by graduate students, the conference features a keynote speaker. Recent keynote speakers include: Richard Bernstein, Jaakko Hintikka, Charles Scott, Larry Hickman, John Lachs, and Donn Welton. Papers are published in an online Proceedings.
Guest Speakers and Lectures:
In addition to the annual philosophy graduate student conference, the department hosts guest speakers in annual lecture series. See the Current Events page for current speakers. Recent Veroni lecturers include Robert Brandom, Don Idhe, Tina Chanter, and Thomas Flynn. The Matchette Lecture series (sponsored by the Franklin J. Matchette Foundation) has hosted John Stuhr, John Lachs, Nicholas Rescher, and Robert C. Solomon. Other recent guest speakers include Anthony Appiah, Donald Davidson, David Gauthier, Susan Haack, Sandra Harding, Daphne Patai, and Gregory Pence.