Master of Arts [M.A] (Philosophy)

at National University of Singapore

Overview of All Modules

Our students read modules from 6 major categories listed below. 

• History of Philosophy
• Value Theory
• Metaphysics, Epistemology, Mind, Language
• Asian and Comparative Philosophy
• Logic and Philosophy of Science
• Variable / Others

The programme involves reading 4 coursework modules (4 MCs each), with a maximum of 2 Independent Study Modules. At least 75% of the total MC requirements must be at level 5000 or 6000. Up to 25% of the total MC requirements may be at level 4000, subject to the approval of the department. The coursework requirement includes a compulsory Graduate Research Seminar that will be assessed on a "satisfactory" / "unsatisfactory" basis. Gaining a satisfactory pass in the Graduate Research Seminar is a condition for continuing in the graduate programme, and all graduate students are required to enroll in the module in the first year of their studies. Credits for relevant coursework taken in another NUS programme or elsewhere may be transferred subject to department approval.

The first part of the Graduate Research Seminar (conducted in the first semester of the academic year) would be conducted like a regular graduate module, emphasis would be placed on developing the students' writing abilities and verbal philosophical skills. There will also be weekly writing assignments for the purpose of developing time management skills in the students. The topic of the GRS, which will vary from year to year, will be tailored to the interests of the students. The second part of the GRS (conducted in the second semester of the academic year) will be for Graduate Student Presentations.

Independent Study Modules are, by default, to be taken in conjunction with an undergraduate honors module offered in the same semester under the supervision of the instructor of that module. The graduate student taking the ISM will be required to fulfill the classroom requirements of the honors module and any additional requirements congruent with this being a graduate level module (to be clearly specified in the ISM contract in agreement with the supervisor). All ISMs will be approved on a case-by-case basis.

For continuation of M.A. candidature, the student's CAP should not fall below 2.50 (C) for 2 consecutive semesters or 3.00 (C+) for 3 consecutive semesters. Termination of candidature would result if a student fails to maintain the minimum CAP as stipulated.

The following criteria must be met for graduation for a M.A. candidate:

1. Minimum CAP of 3.00 (C+)
2. Not fail more than 2 modules
3. Where applicable, obtain satisfactory grades (at least grade C) in the graduate English modules conducted by the CELC at intermediate level
4. Pass the Master's thesis

For International Students:

• S$15,836