M.A. Course of Study

Coursework credits. M.A. students take a minimum of 30 graduate course credit hours (10 courses), including at least one three-credit course in each of ancient, medieval, modern, and contemporary philosophy. With the approval of the Chair, 6 of these course credits (2 courses) may be philosophy or philosophy-related graduate courses in other departments or at area universities (e.g., the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University). M.A. students normally complete their coursework in two years, taking 9 course credits (3 courses) each semester during their first year and 6 credits (2 courses) each semester during their second year. M.A. students enrolled part-time may follow an extended or alternative schedule.

Credit transfer. Transfer credits are generally not accepted for the M.A. program. In some cases, up to 6 credits of prior graduate coursework in philosophy at institutions outside the U.S. and Canada may be allowed.

Language. M.A. students must demonstrate research competence in one language, normally ancient Greek, Latin, German, or French. The Departments of Classics (Greek and Latin) and Modern Languages (French and German) allow Philosophy graduate students to enroll in their courses tuition-free.

Continuation credits. After completing coursework, an M.A. student who has not yet satisfied all requirements for the degree (for example, if the student carries Incomplete grades or has not met the language requirement) must register for fee-based continuation credit (MA-GRAS 700) in order to maintain their status as enrolled Duquesne students. Continuous registration does not apply to students on leave of absence. Note that online registration for these credits is not available; a message stating intent to register for continuation credits must be sent to the Dean’s Office and the Philosophy Department each semester.

Thesis. M.A. students are not required to write a Master’s Thesis. Those who choose to do so must secure the agreement of a faculty director and register for PHIL 700 Research Thesis during their final two semesters of the program. These 6 Research Thesis credits count toward the 30 credit hour requirement.

Satisfactory Progress. The Chair and Director of Graduate Studies periodically review progress toward degree; students deemed not to be making satisfactory progress may be placed on probation or asked to leave the program. University policy requires all work leading to a M.A. degree to be completed no more than six years after matriculation.

Degree conferral. M.A. candidates must make a formal application for the degree at the office of the Registrar prior to the date specified in that year’s University Calendar and should be present at graduation. Students must make complete settlement of their financial accounts with the university before any degree will be conferred.

Additional Links

Departmental Speakers and Events

Graduate Students in Philosophy Organization