Philosophy
Philosophy (M.A.)
Philosophy explores the most general questions about human existence and the nature of the world. The M.A. program in Philosophy equips students to formulate their own philosophical inquiries, critically reflect on them, and craft thoughtful, in-depth answers.
- Degree
- Master of Arts (M.A.)
- Duration of studies in semester
- 4
- Start of degree program
- Summer semester, Winter semester
- Study location
- Erlangen
- Number of students
- 1-50
- Subject group
- Language and Cultural Studies
- Special ways to study
- Part-time degree program
- Teaching language
- completely in German
- Admission Requirements
- Qualification assessment
What is the degree program about?
Philosophy is the field of free thought. The M.A. program in Erlangen grants you significant freedom to design your individual academic path.
- There are no distribution requirements.
- You may choose from a wide range of topics and are free to to focus on your specific areas of interest.
You will receive support in designing your study plan.
- Our faculty supports you in developing your individual academic strategy as past of our mentoring program.
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- 3 modules (10 ECTS credit points each): In each of these modules, you attend two M.A. seminars and write a term paper (of approx. 12 pages) in one of the two seminars.
- 2 specialization modules (15 ECTS credit points each): In each of these modules, you attend two M.A. seminars and write a term paper (of approx. 20 pages) in one of the two seminars.
- Supplementary studies (30 ECTS credit points overall): In addition to the core curriculum, you take courses in philosophy or other subjects. You may choose from the entire range of courses offered by the FAU as well as the Virtuelle Hochschule Bayern (VHB).
- M.A. thesis (30 ECTS credit points): In your final term, you write a thesis of approx. 80 pages.
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- Admission requirements (first semester)
- Qualification assessment
- Application deadline winter semester
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15.07.
- Application deadline summer semester
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15.01.
- Content-related admission requirements
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Your application will be successful if you meet the following requirements.
1. Degree requirements
You hold a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in philosophy or a related field and have completed coursework in philosophy amounting to at least 70 ECTS credits (or an international equivalent) within that degree program.
2. Grade requirements
- If your B.A. degree’s final overall grade is between 1.00 and 2.50 (or an international equivalent), you will be directly admitted to the M.A. program.
- If your B.A. degree’s final overall grade is between 2.51 and 3.50 (or an international equivalent), you will be invited for an interview with the Admissions Committee, which will make a decision regarding your admission.
- If your B.A. degree’s final overall grade is 3.51 or higher (or an international equivalent), you will not be admitted to the M.A. program.
Please also take note of the following guidelines regarding…
- Applications before completion of the B.A. degree: If you are enrolled in a B.A. program but have not yet completed your studies, you may still be eligible for admission to the M.A. program, provided you have accumulated at least 140 ECTS credits in total (or an international equivalent). Proof of completion of your B.A. degree must be submitted no later than one year after starting the M.A. program. Formal admission to the program is conditional upon the completion of your B.A. studies, and admission is considered provisional.
- The ECTS minimum: Your application may be considered even if you can provide evidence of only 50 out of the required 70 ECTS credits in philosophy. The Admissions Committee has the discretion to grant admission to the M.A. program, conditional upon your completion of additional coursework (up to a maximum of 20 ECTS credits) as determined by the Admissions Committee. This coursework must be completed no later than one year after the start of the M.A. program.
Language skills
- German language skills for international applicants
- DSH 2 or equivalent
Do you need help or more information?
Our Student Advice and Career Service (IBZ) is the central point of contact for all questions about studying and starting a degree programme. Our Student Service Centres and subject advisors support you in planning your studies.