Philosophy, PhD

The main areas of concentration in the graduate curriculum are metaphysics, epistemology, history of philosophy, philosophy of science, social and political philosophy, logic, and value theory.

Learning Outcomes

  • Breadth of knowledge: demonstrate knowledge of a wide range of areas in philosophy—metaphysics and epistemology; value theory; history of philosophy; and logic, philosophy of mathematics, and philosophy of science.
  • Depth of knowledge: demonstrate advanced knowledge in a primary area of specialization and substantial knowledge in a distinct, secondary area, to support teaching and potentially research in that area.
  • Scholarship and research skills: develop specific research projects, including the central project of the dissertation; and develop the skills required to conduct research at a professional level, including philosophical writing and communication skills, the ability to engage others’ work, and the ability to make substantial contributions in the field.
  • Teaching skills and pedagogy: demonstrate effective teaching skills that are in line with pedagogical standards in the discipline, acquire teaching competence in a wide range of areas, and develop pedagogical tools for effective engagement with their students.
  • Professionalization and career preparation: understand the disciplinary norms and standards of research, professional and collegial engagement with others, and responsibilities related to teaching; and develop a portfolio and skills contributing to one’s career prospects, guided by one’s career goals and interests, and informed by knowledge of different possible career opportunities and trajectories.