Become Seekers of Knowledge
Objectives
The primary research interests of the Faculty of Philosophy are in the fields of history of philosophy, metaphysics, epistemology, contemporary European philosophy and its historical antecedents. Current issues and debates in such areas as ethics, dialectics, epistemology, phenomenology, and critical theory are also strengths which allow the Faculty to accommodate students with a wide range of research interests.
The Faculty of Philosophy offers three options for students to complete a Master of Arts program: a two-year full-time Master of Arts program, with two possible tracks, and a four-year part-time Master of Arts program. The first track of the full-time two-year program is the thesis-track option which requires 4 research seminars in the first year, and the writing and defence of a 100 page thesis in the second year. The second track of the full-time two-year program is the non-thesis-track option which requires 6 seminars over the two years, and a 50 page research paper. M.A. students are expected to demonstrate advanced research skills and cultivate an ability to present clear and concise philosophical arguments.
The Faculty of Philosophy supports an active research program consisting of featured colloquia, conferences and public lectures. M.A. students have an opportunity to present their own work in progress at the annual DUC student conference. Candidates can apply for federal, provincial and DUC scholarships. Some travel grants are available to attend academic events and conferences within Canada and internationally. Are you eligible for any graduate scholarships?
In Summary
Full-time with thesis:
- Year one: 2 graduate seminars per semester
- Year two: 100 page thesis
Full-time without thesis:
- Year one: 4 graduate seminars
- Year two: 2 graduate seminars; 50 page research paper
Part-time:
- Year one: 1 graduate seminar per semester
- Year two: 1 graduate seminar per semester
- Year three and four: 50 page research paper
Admission Eligibility
Admission to the M.A. program requires 120 credits of philosophy, such as a B.Ph. or a B.A. with Honours in Philosophy from a recognized institution, with a grade average of no less than A- (or its equivalent). Though academic performance is an important consideration, the prospective student’s entire profile will be taken into consideration when evaluating the application. Students from connecting backgrounds require a minimum of 90 credits of philosophy to be eligible for the masters program, and a qualifying year may be added to the student’s program.
For the full list of requirements and admission conditions, please contact the registrar’s office.
Library
With over 140,000 works, our specialized library provides ample material in multiple languages. DUC encourages all students to engage with primary sources. The 5 floor library collects works in their original language, as well as in multiple translations. Registered students may also consult and sign out books from Carleton University, as well as from several other libraries in Ottawa. Nestled in a quiet part of the city, DUC’s library is an urban oasis; its quiet and friendly ambiance encourages reading and writing (while permitting the occasional daydream!). *Graduate students may request access to an individual study room in the library.