Structured MA in Philosophy & M.Litt

Structured MA in Philosophy Brochure

The Structured MA in Philosophy is a one-year, full-time (two-years, part-time) programme that allows students to further their interest in Philosophical studies with particular emphasis on Public/Applied Philosophy and Post-Kantian European Philosophy (Structured MA in Philosophy Brochure). This course provides high-achieving graduates an opportunity to gain a broader and deeper knowledge of their chosen area and to familiarise themselves with contemporary research and debates relevant to the study of Philosophy. Research activity in Philosophy at University of Galway focuses on four four main research areas.

We work on a range of topics across the systematic areas of Philosophy and historically ranging from the Early Moderns to the present day. We have particular expertise in the work of such Post-Kantian European philosophers as Nietzsche, Husserl, Heidegger, Gadamer, Marion, and Arendt. Within public and applied philosophy, we cover such areas as research ethics, health care ethics, ethics in information technologies, questions of social engagement and art, justice and disability and ethical issues to do with big data, AI and robotics.

Over the course of the programme, students will take 30 ECTS worth of taught modules, at least one of which (minimum 10 ECTS) must be taken in Philosophy. Students on this programme will complete an independent research project or dissertation weighted at 60 ECTS. Each student will be assigned a primary supervisor and a graduate research committee made up of experienced researchers to plan their programme of study and to provide on-going support for their research.

Visit University of Galway's Courses Pages for information on how to apply, entry requirements and assessment. For further information contact: felix.omurchadha@universityofgalway.ie

Where can an MA take you?

Past graduates of MAs in Philosophy at Galway talk about how the degree helped them in their diverse careers.

Hear from past graduates:

Hear about Meghan's experience using her philosophical skills in her career in venture capital.

Some of our MA students progress to PhD studies. Jessica is currently completing a PhD.

Following PhD studies, some graduates build a career in academia, like Professor Ornaith O'Dowd.

Hear from past graduates

Master of Letters

The M.Litt. Degree is a "thesis only" programme: it can be acquired by writing a major thesis under the supervision of a member of the Discipline of Philosophy. Although any topic in philosophy will be considered, it is advisable to seek supervision of a project that relates to the areas of specialization of Discipline members, such as political theory, contemporary ethics, bioethics, philosophy of science, Aristotle, Heidegger, Levinas, hermeneutics, phenomenology, philosophy of mind, Irish Thought, philosophy of medicine, philosophy of psychiatry. 

The Philosophy Discipline is committed to fostering a strong sense of community amongst its Graduate Students by facilitating regular opportunities for Graduate Students to meet and discuss Philosophical issues. Students have the following opportunities for developing their philosophical knowledge and skills:

  1. A Philosophy Seminar Series meets regularly at which students can present their research.
  2. The Philosophy Discipline  host conferences with prominent Irish and international speakers on a regular basis.
  3. A Tutorial Teaching Development Group meets several times a semester to support students in developing their skills in the area of teaching 

Visit University of Galway's Courses Page for information on how to apply, entry requirements and assessment.

Funding

Posgraduate Research

Information on the Fulltime Taught Postgraduate Masters Scholarship Scheme is available here

Research

Philosophy Seminar Series

The Philosophy Seminar Series meets every Monday during term time.   This seminar provides an opportunity for Graduate Students to present their work in progress in a constructive and non-threatening environment.  For information on the Philosophy Seminar Series contact  tsarina.doyle@universityofgalway.ie