MA in Philosophy in New York United States | Columbia University

The independent M.A. program is designed for individuals seeking to enhance their philosophical expertise. While some participants in this program don't intend to pursue doctoral studies in Philosophy, others use it as preparation for Ph.D. applications when they lack sufficient philosophical background for direct Ph.D. admission. These students benefit from studying alongside our Ph.D. candidates. Strong performance in the M.A. program can strengthen applications to doctoral programs elsewhere. Importantly, Columbia's Philosophy M.A. is not a pathway to our Ph.D. program. M.A. graduates interested in Columbia's Ph.D. must submit a separate application and will be assessed alongside all other candidates, with no admission advantage granted based on their M.A. completion from our department.