Master of Arts in Philosophy
Bring Critical Inquiry and Ethics to the Modern World
Ready to raise thought-provoking questions and craft critically sound arguments? Earning a Master of Arts (MA) in Philosophy from San José State University transforms how you engage with the world and navigate the complexities of human existence.
Our integrated approach to advanced philosophical studies blends intensive theoretical study with hands-on training in research, communication and debate, helping you build a competitive portfolio for continued graduate education or specialized careers.
With evening seminars and flexible enrollment paths, our philosophy graduate program allows you to dive into deep intellectual exploration without compromising your professional or personal life.
Have questions about the MA in Philosophy program? Please contact either of our two co-advisors:
Why Earn Your Master’s in Philosophy at SJSU?
As a student in SJSU’s Philosophy Department, you’re welcomed into a group of scholars committed to philosophical exploration and discovery. In the graduate philosophy program, you’ll benefit from:
- Research-driven curriculum integrating Global Philosophical traditions and cutting-edge Ethics of Science and Technology.
- Flexible courses and part-time and full-time enrollment options so you can achieve your academic goals while balancing work responsibilities or personal commitments.
- One-on-one mentorship from our renowned philosophy faculty, who combine both traditional and innovative approaches.
- A vibrant community that enriches your student experience through social and competitive engagement, including reading groups, monthly philosophy dinners and an Ethics Bowl team.
- Funding options, including scholarships and student employment opportunities, to help offset the costs of earning your master’s degree in philosophy.
Want to learn more about the SJSU graduate student experience? Discover why students from around the world choose us for graduate study.
What You’ll Learn
The master’s in philosophy program curriculum ignites your curiosity and welcomes you into an in-depth study of the people and intellectual traditions that have shaped the modern world and our understanding of it. By uniting historical foundations with contemporary inquiry, you’ll build a versatile skill set and navigate the ethical and logical complexities of our current era.
In 30 credits of graduate-level philosophy course work, you learn how to:
- Use formal and informal logic to evaluate intricate arguments and identify structural fallacies.
- Conduct high-level research and synthesize diverse viewpoints into cohesive, original academic work.
- Read and interpret dense historical and contemporary texts with nuance.
- Articulate complex ideas with the precision required for professional publication and doctoral-level study.
- Analyze and apply diverse moral theories to contemporary issues in science, technology and aesthetics.
Along with your core classes, you select four electives to tailor your studies to
your unique interests. Choose from more than 30 courses, ranging from Medical Ethics
to Puzzles in Innovation and Law, and discover what philosophical frameworks can empower
your personal and professional success.
Philosophy Graduate Program Requirements
Optional Certificates
As a graduate philosophy student at SJSU, you can add one of the following optional certificates to your studies to help guide your intellectual growth. The certificate is awarded concurrently with your MA, provided you complete the relevant coursework for both. Additionally, classes can be dual-counted toward both the degree and the certificate.
Global Philosophy Certificate
The Global Philosophy certificate can be completed alongside the MA in Philosophy program and immerses you in a wide range of rich intellectual traditions that span continents and eras. Our graduate seminars leverage the diverse expertise of our faculty, offering a curriculum unique among philosophy programs for its breadth and inclusivity.
Our flexible curriculum allows you to tailor your studies to your own interests, or to pursue advanced coursework with SJSU’s faculty, who are renowned scholars specializing in:
- Mexican and Latin American Philosophy
- Indian Philosophy
- Chinese Philosophy
- History of Medieval Philosophy
- Analytic Philosophy
- Comparative Philosophy
- Asian and Latin American Philosophy
- Metaphysics, Epistemology and Language
- Existentialism and Phenomenology
Ethics of Science and Technology Certificate
SJSU’s Ethics of Science and Technology certificate explores moral, political and legal philosophy and their relevance to emerging scientific and technological fields. Our curriculum addresses the unique ethical landscape of Silicon Valley and equips you to be a leader, delivering logical, effective solutions to ongoing challenges in the tech world.
SJSU’s innovative philosophy faculty brings passion for and expertise in a variety of philosophical disciplines, including:
- History and Ethics of Science
- Bioethics and Philosophy of Race
- Ethics and Political Philosophy of AI
- Metaethics and Philosophy of Law
If pursuing the Ethics of Science and Technology certificate, you’ll enroll in courses like:
- Advanced Seminar in Ethics
- Computers, Ethics and Society
- Medical Ethics
- Philosophy of Law and Social Justice
Culminating Experience
Your time in the master’s in philosophy program ends with a culminating experience, which brings together specialized interests and analytical skills to showcase all that you’ve learned throughout your studies.
You can choose from these culminating experience options:
- Thesis: Designed for students who wish to create an original, research-driven work. This plan is ideal if you intend to pursue a PhD, as it provides a substantial writing sample and experience with the formal defense process.
- Reading Intensive Plan: Often chosen by those pursuing the MA degree for personal enrichment or to elevate their writing for professional publication. This track allows you to focus on producing an article-length, publish-ready paper under faculty guidance.
- Applied Philosophy Project: Reflecting SJSU’s mission to transform local and global communities, this plan connects philosophy to life in the real world. You create systematic projects — such as developing ethics curricula or philosophical toolboxes — that address real-world challenges in civic or professional spheres.
Philosophy Careers
Graduate-level training in philosophy offers a competitive advantage by equipping you with skills that transfer across disciplines — critical thinking, ethical reasoning and communication. These competencies, and the ability to problem-solve, set you up to make meaningful contributions to your community and beyond.
At SJSU, our master’s in philosophy program blends abstract theory with professional application and development, preparing you to lead in industries, including:
- Academia and research
- Business
- Health care
- Law and public policy
- Science and technology
- Administrative Manager
- Technical Writer
- Grant Writer
- Policy Analyst
For additional support and resources, review the Philosophy Department’s Career Planning page.
Where SJSU’s Philosophy Grads Work
Through rigorous study, SJSU’s MA in Philosophy graduates have cultivated highly transferable skills in complex problem-solving and persuasive communication. These competencies improve their ability to lead across teams and navigate ever-evolving landscapes, helping them find employment at prestigious companies and organizations.
MA in Philosophy Program Admissions
Ready to take your next step toward advancing your understanding of philosophy?
Applying to San José State University is a two-step process. You must meet the university’s graduate admission requirements and the specific requirements of the master’s in philosophy program.
If you need additional admission guidance, the College of Graduate Studies is available to guide you through the application process. You can benefit from:
Have questions about graduate admissions? Send us an email at grad-admissions@sjsu.edu for support from the SJSU team.
Explore Graduate Admissions at SJSU
Application Requirements
When applying to the MA in Philosophy, please complete the following steps:
- Submit your application through Cal State Apply
- Submit official documents needed to Graduate Admissions by the MA in Philosophy document deadline
- Provide a writing sample and two letters of recommendation directly sent to your graduate advisor.
- No additional tests are required, including the GRE
Philosophy Program Admissions Prerequisites
SJSU’s MA in Philosophy program welcomes students with undergraduate degrees in various disciplines. To qualify for admission to the philosophy graduate program, applicants must:
- Be in good academic standing at their prior institution
- Have earned a baccalaureate degree
- Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5
MA in Philosophy Admissions Information
Financial Aid
San José State University helps you invest in your future. Our Financial Aid and Scholarship Office offers the practical support and resources you need, from finding scholarships and grants to submitting your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®).
The College of Graduate Studies has also dedicated a Funding Opportunities page for additional funding resources.
Step Into a New Chapter of Success at SJSU
Dive into the Master of Arts in Philosophy program at San José State University to pursue the age-old questions of human existence and elevate your professional competencies. Through hands-on training and intellectual exploration, you move one step closer to a future defined by ethical leadership and an appreciation for the philosophical traditions that have shaped our lives.
Ready to join a community committed to philosophical inquiry in the heart of Silicon Valley? Apply to San José State University today.
