A master's in philosophy is a graduate degree that offers advanced training in the humanities, building skills in critical analysis, argumentation, and written communication. Most programs take about two years to complete, though online or part-time programs may take longer.
Tuition rates for master's in philosophy programs vary widely among schools. However, the National Center for Education Statistics reports that graduate students in all fields paid an average of $19,792 for the 2019-2020 school year.
When researching master's in philosophy programs, always consider a school's true program cost and whether you'll need to take on debt to attend school.
Like many humanities degrees, an online master's in philosophy builds broad, widely applicable skills that can lead to many career paths. Philosophy graduates often find jobs in fields such as teaching, law, and journalism.
Payscale reports master's in philosophy graduates earn an average base salary of $76,000 per year, as of June 2022.
Popular Online Master's in Philosophy Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Our Top Pick
Yale University — New Haven, Connecticut
Why It's #1: Yale University is the No. 1-ranked school on our 2022 Best Master's in Philosophy Programs list. This school features a highly selective admissions rate of just 6%, paired with an above-average 97% graduation rate. While Yale's annual graduate tuition rate of $43,300 is higher than average, around 64% of students are awarded financial aid. Degree candidates also benefit from an enviable student-faculty ratio of just 6-to-1, helping to ensure close attention from professors.
Best Accredited Master's in Philosophy Programs
Frequently Asked Questions About Philosophy Programs
While not the most career-focused degree, a master's in philosophy program can be a good choice If you receive strong financial aid. As a graduate philosophy student, you'll develop advanced critical thinking and analytical skills while also building broad knowledge of the history of philosophy. The degree can prepare you for many career paths or for Ph.D. programs.
For many students, cost is the biggest concern when pursuing graduate education. Enrolling in an online program can often give you the flexibility to maintain your current job while you complete your education, which can make tuition less of a burden.