- Students acquire basic proficiency in at least one philosophically significant language other than English - Students are able to conduct research which leads either to a thesis or a significant portfolio of shorter works - Students demonstrate the ability to write and prepare presentations at a high level of proficiency. Since students come to the program with diverse professional goals, the following outcomes are appropriate for many students but not for all. - Student is prepared to enter a Ph.D. program. - Student is prepared to teach philosophy at the junior college level. - Students are prepared to enter a graduate-level professional school.

Students seeking admission to the MA program must have a BA degree, including the equivalent of 30 credits in philosophy. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is required of all students to whom it is accessible in applying for admission to the program. Three letters of recommendation and a sample of the applicant’s written work in philosophy (ideally 12 pages, not more than 20 pages) are required.