The most affordable master’s in philosophy online offer a flexible path for students to earn a degree and advance their careers. Are you interested in learning more about the most affordable online philosophy masters degree? If so you are in the right place! When it comes to the quickest Master’s in Philosophy online, you won’t find many. But what you can find, are online graduate degrees in Liberal Arts or Humanities that engage in the study of Philosophy.
Unlike many graduate programs that hone in on a specific area of interest, affordable master’s degrees in philosophy, liberal arts, or the humanities do the opposite. They give you a broader and also deeper approach to graduate study. What is the purpose? To help you understand the world as we experience it, whether you are pursuing professional development, personal enrichment, or a little bit of both. Either way, you can take your critical thinking skills to whatever career you choose.
Featured Schools:
Methodology for Ranking the Most Affordable Philosophy Master’s Programs
In order to rank the easiest online master’s in philosophy programs, we scored the schools based on 3 criteria. We used Student to Faculty ratio, the school’s graduate in-state graduate tuition, and also the duration of the program. And we used the school’s website for information, as well as the National Center for Education Statistics. So, if any information didn’t fit within the parameters of the scoring, zero points were awarded for that category. Now, let’s take a look at some of the quickest master’s in Philosophy online out there.
1. Loyola University Chicago
If you’re looking for a unique and Christ-centered approach to the fastest Master’s in Philosophy online degree, then you might want to check out Loyola University of Chicago’s online Master of Arts in Christian Spirituality. Where traditional programs might ponder questions like, “why am I here?” this program will join that level of philosophical contemplation by addressing the answers through the wisdom of the Ignatian tradition.
Coursework includes classes like Human Person and Psychological Development, Spiritual Paths in World Religions, and also Christian Origins. While the 36-credit hour can be pursued fully online, a hybrid option is available for interested students living near Chicago. Additionally, a concentration in Spiritual Direction is available. Full-time students can complete their graduate degree in just two years. Furthermore, scholarship and financial aid opportunities are listed on the Institute of Pastoral Studies Financial Aid page.
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Degree: Online Master of Arts in Christian Spirituality
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14 to 1
Graduate Tuition: total $29,520
Credit Hours: 36
More: Visit the website for more.
2. California Institute of Integral Studies
The fast online graduate philosophy degree offering at the California Institute of Integral Studies is an online MA in Ecology, Spirituality, and Religion program goes beyond knowledge and leads to students to use what they learn to incite intervention and also change in society.
While this 36-credit program can be completed fully online, students are encouraged to participate in several residencies and intensives throughout the duration of the program. For this reason, this program would be a great fit for students who live in or near the San Francisco Bay area. A concentration in Integral Ecology is available. Coursework includes Modern Western Esotericism, Science, Ecology, Contested Knowledge, and also Love, Death, and Annihilation.
Location: San Francisco, California
Degree: Online Master of Arts in Ecology, Spirituality, and Religion
Student to Faculty Ratio: 12 to 1
Tuition: $46,260
Credit Hours: 36
More: Visit the website for more.
3. Rutgers University
Rutgers University Camden offers a fast online Master’s in Philosophy that is perfect for students looking to expand their knowledge base. Students will earn an online MALS and pursue a concentration in Philosophy and Religion. For the area of concentration, students can choose 4 of the following philosophy courses:
- Gender, Sexuality, and Religion
- Psychology of Religious Beliefs, Values, and Symbols
- Gods and Monsters: Understanding Power
- Philosophy of Social Identities
- Evil
- Contemporary Moral Issues
The remaining 15-credit hours that are required can be satisfied by other general electives. A capstone project related to the area of concentration is required. Courses are present asynchronously to accommodate busy students. Full-time students can complete the degree in 2 years, while part-time students can complete the program in about 3.
Location: Camden, New Jersey
Degree: Online Masters of Arts in Liberal Studies with a concentration in Philosophy and Religion
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15 to 1
Tuition: $22,804
Credit Hours: 30
More: Visit the Website for more.
4. The University of Toledo
At the University of Toledo, interested students can earn the easiest online Master’s in Philosophy through the online Online Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies program. Among the 33 required credits are classes that span subject matter like in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and visual and performing arts.
Students will take core classes, then work with the department head and faculty members to develop an elective curriculum that meets their goals and passions. Students will also get maximum online support through a Success Coach, eTutoring, IT Help Desk, eLibrary, and interactive faculty. All students will write a thesis or complete a final project. Additional admission requirements include a 2.7 cumulative GPA for admission to the program.
Location: Toledo, Ohio
Degree: Online Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies
Student to Faculty Ratio: 20 to 1
Tuition: $15,600
Credit Hours: 33
More: Visit the Website for more.
5. Kent University
Kent University offers an accelerated Master’s in Philosophy online degree alternative that is perfect for professionals interested in customizing their degree. In fact, 27 of the 33 required credits are electives, allowing students to tailor their studies to match their interests and career goals. Twelve of the elective credits must be from the College of Arts and Sciences.
While the program is offered on-campus, it’s also offered entirely online and does not require any residencies. Sample courses include Liberal Studies Essay and Methods and Approaches to Multidisciplinary Studies. Students can choose 6-credit hours of an internship or practicum, as well as 6-credit hours in research.
Location: Kent, Ohio
Degree: Online Master of Liberal Studies (MLS)
Student to Faculty Ratio: 20 to 1
Tuition: $17,700
Credit Hours: 30
More: Visit the website for more.
6. Biola University
Through the Talbot School of Theology, Biola University offers a fast online MA in Philosophy for interested students. Note this is a program that explores philosophical thought through the Christian worldview. Graduates are ready for a variety of careers or prepared to pursue a PhD in Philosophy. The 49-credit curriculum features a core of biblical and theological foundation courses, the Spiritual Formation Core, an area of academic specialization, and additional elective courses.
Sample classes include Philosophy of Religion, Philosophy of Theology, and Personal Foundations for Spiritual Formation. Program length ranges from 2 to 4 years, depending on student’s full-time or part-time status. Biola University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.
Location: La Mirada, California
Degree: Online Master of Arts in Philosophy
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14 to 1
Tuition: $33,810
Credit Hours: 49
More: Visit the Website for more.
7. SUNY Empire State College
SUNY Empire State College gives you the opportunity to create the kind of accelerated online philosophy master’s program that will work with your personal interests. Completed as an MA in Liberal Studies degree, you will create your own graduate program and final project with the help of your advisor. And because of the multidisciplinary nature of these types of degrees, SUNY ESC offers introductory seminar courses that will help students “understand and adopt the perspectives of multiple disciplines.”
Please note that this program requires a residency component, where students will travel to campus 2-3 weekends during the entirety of the program. As far as the curriculum goes, students will take core classes, and then choose electives for the rest of the credits. Sample courses include Models of Critical Inquiry, Literature Review, and Perspectives of Interdisciplinary Studies.
Location: Saratoga Springs, New York
Degree: Online Master of Arts in Liberal Studies (MALS)
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15 to 1
Graduate Tuition: $11,310
Credit Hours: 30
More: Visit the website for more info.
8. Western New Mexico University
The MA in Interdisciplinary Studies at Western New Mexico University offers a concentration in Philosophy. This online degree will utilize humanities-related subjects like arts, ethics, history, language and literature, philosophy, religion to help us understand ourselves, as well as the world around us, better.
Location: Silver City, New Mexico
Degree: Online Master of Arts in Humanities with a concentration in Philosophy
Student to Faculty Ratio: 13 to 1
Tuition: $14,290
Credit Hours: 36
More: Visit the website for more.
9. Faulkner University
Faulkner University’s fast online Master’s degree in Philosophy is perfect for the faith-based student who wants to explore life’s essential questions through a Christian point of view. The curriculum will include:
- 1 foundational course in the history and philosophy in human learning
- 5 core courses in philosophy and religion
- 4 independent, customizable electives in your personal area of interest
Sample courses include Introduction to Human Letters and Learning, Scholarly Inquiry and Writing in the Humanities, and Great Ideas, Authors, and Writings: Philosophical Inquiries. A thesis is required. The program is designed to usher graduates into a PhD program in philosophy, but those desiring the workforce can pursue career opportunities in missionary work, teaching positions, travel-related jobs, and more.
Location: Montgomery, Alabama
Degree: Online Master of the Arts in Humanities
Student to Faculty Ratio: 12 to 1
Tuition: $18,640
Credit Hours: 36 with thesis
More: Visit the Website for more about this MA program.
10. University of Illinois at Springfield
The University of Illinois at Springfield offers an accelerated online Master’s in Philosophy degree in the form of their Liberal and Integrative Studies Program. The program was designed to make sure that students who wouldn’t typically have access to an online graduate philosophy degree can still pursue a Master’s level philosophy-centric program. Students interested in this program will choose the Individual Option, which enables students to customize their curriculum to meet their interests and goals. Full-time, students can complete this degree in just two years. Among the 33 required credits are classes in subjects like humanities, social sciences, arts, and physical and natural sciences.
Location: Springfield, Illinois
Degree: Online Liberal and Integrative Studies Program
Student to Faculty Ratio: 12 to 1
Tuition: $8,270
Credit Hours: 0
More: Website
11. California State University at Northridge
If you’re a thinker and want to become a better problem-solver, then you’ll love California State University at Northridge’s accelerated online Master’s in philosophy program. In the 20-mont long program, you’ll earn an online MA in Humanities with the opportunity to study philosophical questions that will ultimately lead to a better, more fulfilling life.
CSUN’s curriculum draws from multidisciplinary subjects like including history, philosophy, ethics, law, and religion. Students can complete this fully online program in just 20 months with no residency requirements. Sample courses include Nation and Empire, Law and Government, Science and Magic: the Varied Modes of Knowing and Believing, and Gateway to the Humanities. Students can expect to complete assignments on their own time, but while adhering to a structured schedule. In addition, students will get peer support through the program’s cohort model.
Location: Northridge, California
Degree: Online Master of Arts in Humanities
Student to Faculty Ratio: 26 to 1
Tuition: $7,176
Credit Hours: 33
More: Visit the website for more.
12. American Public University
If you’re interested in humanity and what has made us all who we are, then you’ll love American Public University’s take on a fast online Master’s in Philosophy. You’ll graduate with a Master of Arts in Humanities and will take curriculum that explores how philosophers, literature, cultures, and works of art have shaped the past and present world. Full-time students can complete this 36-credit hour program within two years. The curriculum is broken down into 3 parts: 12-credit hours of required major classes, 21-credit hours of required core, and a 3-credit hour humanities capstone portfolio. Sample courses include Evolution of Life and Intelligence, History of Religion, and Society, Class and Wealth.
Location: Charles Town, West Virginia
Degree: Online Master of Arts in Humanities
Student to Faculty Ratio: 21 to 1
Tuition: $6,615
Credit Hours: 0
More: Website
13. Holy Apostles College & Seminary
Another faith-based fast online philosophy program is Holy Apostles College and Seminary’s online MA in Philosophy. This fully online degree offers five areas of concentration:
- Christian Wisdom
- General Studies
- Ethics
- History of Philosophy
- Systematic Philosophy
The degree will be a good fit for students in ministry, teaching philosophy, religion or theology–or who plan to continue to a doctoral program in philosophy. Students can choose their culminating final project: thesis or a comprehensive exam. The degree can be completed in just two years, or students have up to 6 years to complete the degree requirements of the program. Sample courses include Philosophical Anthropology, Ethics, and Philosophy of Nature and Metaphysics. Additionally, the Holy Apostles College and Seminary has accreditation from the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
Location: Cromwell, Connecticut
Degree: Online Master of Arts in Philosophy
Student to Faculty Ratio: 5 to 1
Tuition: $14,430
Credit Hours: 36
More: Visit the Website for more.
14. Johns Hopkins University
From the nationally recognized and reputable Johns Hopkins University, students can pursue their affordable accelerated online master’s in philosophy through a customizable online MLA degree. Through this broad, yet deep perspective, students will learn more about the world and themselves.
This 10-course program will be completed in fall, spring, and summer sessions, and does not require a residency on-campus during the program. Full-time students can complete the program in one calendar year, or part-time students can complete it in just 2 years. Coursework could include Markup Languages for Humanities Research, Forbidden Knowledge: the “Metaphysical Rebel” in Myth and Literature, and The Self in Question: Readings in Literature and Psychology.
Location: Baltimore, MD
Degree: Online Master of Liberal Arts
Student to Faculty Ratio: 7 to 1
Tuition: $35,600
Credit Hours: 30
More: Visit the school website for more.
15. Arizona State University
Offered through the College of Integrative Sciences and Arts, Arizona State University offers an alternate accelerated online master’s in philosophy degree that results in an online MLSt. Students will explore the humanities field while answering some of life’s most pressing questions.
With multiple start dates per year, students will take ten classes, three of which make up the core requirement and six that fulfill the elective requirement. Classes only last 7.5 weeks, so students will move quickly through the program. All work culminates into a final applied project. Sample courses include Writing About Social Issues, Film and Media Studies, and Ethics, Science, and Culture.
Location: Tempe, Arizona
Degree: Online Master of Liberal Studies (MLSt)
Student to Faculty Ratio: 19 to 1
Tuition: $14,173
Credit Hours: 30
More: Visit the website for more.
What is a Master of Philosophy Degree?
Philosophy is one of those fields that many people may not value. And this can lead students to think it’s not a valuable field to pursue. However, that isn’t true! Philosophy is an integral part of all human life. The word “philosophy,” which means the love of wisdom, is a sub-field of humanities. Additionally, it provides the framework for students to answer critical questions about our existence. Furthermore, students address important questions like, what is truth? or why do we believe what we believe?
What Can You do With a Master’s in Philosophy?
What career paths can Philosophy graduates take? The kicker with this graduate field is that there aren’t many jobs in the actual field of philosophy unless you plan to become a modern-day Aristotle or a post-secondary teacher. So, if you plan to pursue this field, keep in mind you won’t necessarily have to get a job as a philosopher. You will use your deep thinking brain and passion for understanding life in any job you pursue.
Think about options like helping businesses write mission statements and also creating political platforms. Contemporary philosophy, philosophy of science, political philosophy, and philosophy of mind all have real world applications. And graduates of the philosophy field can use their marketable skills in fields like politics, healthcare, law, journalism, and also education.
What is an Online Master of Philosophy Degree Program?
If you already have a Bachelor’s degree in this field, then you know about the kinds of problem solving coursework that make up philosophy degrees: logic, metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, aesthetics, religious studies, and more. However, each of these sub-disciplines focus on a different aspect of philosophy and gives students a unique way to view the world through multiple perspectives.
What Degrees are Available in a Philosophy Program?
You might think that online master’s degrees in Philosophy would be easy to find. But that actually isn’t true. In fact, there are only a handful of distance learning or online master’s degrees with Philosophy as the focus or major.
But with that said, several other departments like Humanities and Liberal Arts will address similar topics and include philosophy as a part of the curriculum. The main difference? These types of programs will also include a multi-disciplinary approach, merging subjects like philosophy, religion, social sciences, law, politics, and more.
What are the Admissions Requirements for a Philosophy Master’s Degree Program?
The admissions requirements for an online philosophy master’s degree program vary depending on each school. Generally speaking, most will require that applicants to have some or all of the below items. Additionally, some online philosophy master’s degree programs may have specific prerequisites or requirements for international students.
- hold a bachelor’s degree in philosophy or a related field from an accredited institution
- official transcripts with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
- GRE or GMAT scores
- a personal essay or personal statement
- letters of recommendation
- a resume or curriculum vitae
- Some schools may require additional coursework, such as courses in logic, ancient philosophy, or modern philosophy.
What is the Best Master’s in Philosophy Online Degree?
- Master of Humanities
- Master of Liberal Arts
- Master of Liberal Studies
- Master of Arts
While these degrees are not the same, it is important to note that they all carry a similar theme of using the humanities field to explore a deeper value of life. Another point to consider is most graduate-level programs seek to target your education by studying a specific field in-depth.
What makes these philosophy-related programs stand out is that they do the opposite. They broaden the student’s view of life by looking at a wide range of related subject matters. And unlike a lot of other master’s degree programs, students can choose from a wide range of career paths and are not locked down to one specific path.
What Prerequisites Do You Need for a Master’s in Philosophy Online Degree?
To apply for a graduate-level philosophy program, students first need to have a Bachelor’s degree. While a Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy is preferred, students can also have other liberal arts or humanities-related undergraduate degrees. If you don’t have a related degree, you might be required to take some prerequisite coursework. For example, some Master of Arts programs require a prior foreign language component or they might offer an exemption examination. Make sure to check the details of your desired program before you apply.
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