College of Arts & Sciences

Philosophy - Graduate

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The UK graduate program in philosophy aims to prepare students for successful careers as college and university researchers and teachers.  We are a pluralistic department with broad competences in most areas of philosophy. The department has particular strengths in the history of philosophy from Plato to Kant, 19th and 20th century Continental philosophy, contemporary metaphysics and epistemology, philosophy of religion, and, ethical, social, and political philosophy.

Doctoral Program Description

The University of Kentucky's Department of Philosophy offers a course of study leading to the doctoral degree in philosophy.  Masters degrees are typically earned along the way to completion of the Ph.D.  Only rarely do we accept students who aim at a terminal MA degree. Contingent upon maintaining satisfactory progress, all incoming doctoral students are guaranteed five years of financial support, typically through teaching assistantships and/or fellowships.  In addition to full tuition waiver and health insurance, incoming students can expect an assistantship stipend of over $19,900 or a fellowship grant of up to $18,000.

Application Requirements

  1. CV
  2. Personal Statement
    • Please state your reasons for wanting to undertake graduate study in philosophy at the University of Kentucky.  Provide an indication of your interests in philosophy and your professional goals and objectives.)
  3. Writing Sample
    • ​Please provide a sample of your best philosophical work to date.  Writing samples should be between 15-25 pages in length.
  4. Three letters of recommendation
    • ​Please provide a candid assessment of the applicant’s ability to undertake and succeed in a PhD program in philosophy.  Please include any information that would help us assess the candidate’s potential as a graduate student.

Applicants must meet the Graduate School admission requirements.

The GRE is not required for admission to this program Fall 2023.

 

Application Deadlines

​Fall: January 1