The terminal MA in Social Philosophy provides an education for students interested in ethical, political, and other philosophical issues concerning society and social justice. Students enrolled in this program will learn to analyze the human condition through the complex social, political, economic, and cultural contexts that characterize the contemporary global landscape. We also offer courses that introduce students to the history of philosophy and that explore the relationship between philosophical inquiry and the humanities more generally.

MA in Social Philosophy Requirements

Prerequisites

Students who enter the program must be sufficiently familiar with the history and general methodology of philosophy to complete courses and other requirements successfully. Those admitted who do not meet this prerequisite will be required to fulfill it by taking undergraduate courses or otherwise satisfying the Philosophy Department that they are prepared to do graduate work in social philosophy.

Required Courses

Ten courses are required:

• Two courses in moral philosophy
• Three courses in social philosophy (which often include issues concerning ethics and social justice)
• Five elective courses in philosophy, up to two of which may be replaced by related courses offered in other graduate departments or schools within Loyola University, subject to approval by the program director.

For students who begin the MA in Social Philosophy in Fall 2023 or later:

Beginning in Fall 2023, all required courses must be taken at the 400 or 500 level. 300-level undergraduate courses cannot be counted toward the MA in Social Philosophy. This does not apply to students who entered before Fall 2023.

For students who started the MA in Social Philosophy before Fall 2023:

Of the required courses, up to three may (but need not) be taken as upper-division undergraduate (300-level) courses. The remainder must be graduate courses (400 or 500 level).

The above requirements apply to any student following the M.A. program in Social Philosophy. However, Jesuits who elect to pursue this degree should consult with their advisor regarding other requirements associated with their First Studies program.

Research Tool Requirement

There is no research tool (language) requirement.

Paper Presentation

There is no formal departmental examination. Instead, a final project paper, developed in conjunction with a course in the student's field or special area of interest, is presented publicly at the end of the course of studies. The presentation of the paper requires a committee of three faculty members (at least two from philosophy).

How to Apply

The first step is to make a formal application to the program, using the online application form. All applications should be sent directly to the Graduate School as indicated on the application form, but members of special cohorts such as Jesuits in First Studies or faculty-scholars from other institutions should send a duplicate copy of their applications and supporting materials to the Philosophy Graduate Program Director. Once accepted, students are expected to seek out a faculty mentor who will counsel them on course selection and other matters. For further information, please contact the Department of Philosophy.