Academics

The M.A. (Master of Arts) in Philosophy is available only through our Distance Learning program. 

The M.A. program is for the student who is prepared to do graduate work. Candidates should have an interest in Theology and Philosophy, be well versed in Christian principles, and have the ability to articulate the principles well.

The Distance Learning M.A. (Master of Arts) program is a course of study designed to give a broad acquaintance with the major philosophical disciplines. It is a flexible program, with a six year time limit from entry into the program to completion of the degree requirements. The program is designed to prepare men and women for ministry, teaching philosophy, religion or theology, for a subsequent Post Master’s Certificate in Theology, or for licentiate or doctoral work. Classes also serve as enrichment for persons in other professions wanting to deepen understanding of their faith or seeking to integrate their faith into their daily lives.

All students are required to complete 36 credit hours in order to earn their degree. For these students, neither a foreign language proficiency exam nor an M.A. thesis is required in order to graduate. Students who aspire to pursue advanced degrees beyond the M.A. may write an M.A. thesis or take a foreign language proficiency exam if they wish. However, neither the thesis nor the language exam may be substituted for any of the required 36 credit hours.

Core Curriculum

All students must complete the prerequisite course - PHTH 600: Philosophy for Theologians - or have a Bachelor's degree in Philosophy.

Requirements for Master of Arts in Philosophy - 12 Credit Core Curriculum

• PHL570 ‐ Introduction to Moral Philosophy
• PHL590 ‐ Metaphysics
• PHL725 ‐ Philosophy of Nature
• PHL730 ‐ Ancient and Medieval Philosophy

Comprehensive Examination

Students matriculating into the program in the summer of 2013 or afterwards are bound by the new summative evaluation process that allows students to choose from one of three options: comprehensive exams, a 50- to 80-page thesis, or a special project.

Comprehensive Exam Guidelines

Thesis Guidelines

The special projects guidelines will be available by May 20, 2013.