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Philosophy
Master of Arts

Short description

Short description

Philosophy as methodical thinking deals with the challenges of an increasingly complex world in a specific way. It offers the possibility of conceptually processing fundamental questions, analyzing systems and structures and developing differentiated perspectives on current problems, taking into account normative aspects.

The Master's degree program in Philosophy enables you to deepen the relevant skills and knowledge at a higher academic level and to make them useful for your own professional future both within and outside the university. The program in Gelsenkirchen offers you unique advantages:

  • outstanding teaching: in 2024 and 2025, one of the prestigious teaching awards at MUHS was bestowed on one of our faculty members, and students at our department have nominated several of our academic teachers for these awards each year since 2020,
  • intensive supervision and discussions in small groups,
  • an internationally oriented professional environment,
  • Courses at the cutting edge of current research in almost every area of philosophy,
  • specializations and specific modules to deepen your philosophical research skills, on current social issues and on careers and the public sphere,
  • further offers on philosophy in the public sphere as well as dedicated support on career prospects, also as part of a mentoring program.

Detailed information and testimonials from students and alumni can also be found on the website for prospective students of the Institute of Philosophy.

Entry/Admission requirements

Enrollment for the master programme in philosophy requires a bachelor's degree in philosophy or in a related subject, to be completed with an overall grade of at least 2,5. If the requirements are fulfilled is checked in a so-called "Eignungsfestellung" (proof of particular aptitude), for which both the bachelor's degree and the transcript of records have to be handed in. We expect a knowledge of philosophy equivalent in type and extent to the bachelor minor in philosophy. In case of slight deficits, an admission with conditions is possible. In this case, a maximum of two bachelor modules with exams can be completed before the admission for the master thesis. There is no formal restriction on admission(Numerus Clausus).

The master programm can be started either in the summer or in the winter semester.

Programme content

The M.A. course in philosophy teaches the international state of the art in selected philosophical subdisciplines and provides a training in professional methodology. Students learn how to apply, and to critically asses, philosophical ways of thinking and arguing. They acquire the competence to reflect, to express and to justify their views on issues of philosophical concern, written and spoken, and to make use of their philosophical expertise in suggesting solutions for practical and every day concerns. At the same time, the course lays the founcations for advanced studies in philosophy. Moreover, the master programme opens up the potentials of philosophy for intercultural and interdisciplinary dialogue.

Programme structure

4 compulsory modules

  • Philosophical research 1 & 2 (9 CP each)
    In exchange with the lecturers, you will deepen your research skills and develop your own research questions.
  • Current social issues (15 CP)
    You will analyse social challenges from a descriptive and normative perspective - from climate change to digitalization - and develop well-founded positions.
  • Profession and the public sphere (15 CP)
    You will explore the role of philosophy in practice and learn to apply philosophical thinking in public and professional life.

2 elective modules from the following list (15 CP each)

  • Ethics and social philosophy
  • Political philosophy and philosophy of law
  • History of philosophy
  • Metaphysics and philosophy of mind
  • Epistemology and philosophy of language

Profile development (18 CP)

Programme objectives/Career prospects

A study of philosophy imparts a broad spectrum of methodological, analytical and language skills that are in great demand in various professions. On the website Berufsperspektiven (in German), you will find more information and relevant courses at the department of philosophy and at Marien University Hospital & School. Philosophical expertise can be used in tackling concrete problems in life and practice. Employers from various sectors appreciate the ability to grasp problems quickly, to understand complex contexts, and to present solutions clearly. Philosophers work, for example, in public relations, consulting, science management, journalism, and adult education.

Programme start:
Summer semester, Winter semester
Programme duration:
4 semesters
Language of instruction:
German (partially: English)
Application procedure:
Admission-free with aptitude assessment in the application portal
Closing date for applications:
Summer: 02.11.-01.06. / Winter: 05.05.-15.12.
Closing date for enrolment:
01/07/2025 - 15/12/2025
Closing date for re-registration:
01/07/2025 - 15/08/2025
Relevant documents:

Examination regulations

Module guide

Both available in German only.

Study programme contact:

Prof. Dr. Susanne Hahn
Building: 24.52
Room: 00.98
send E-Mail

for Prospective Students

Study programme/Department
SSC contact:

Student Services Center (SSC)
Building: 21.02 / SSC
Phone +499475 211 81‐12345
send E-mail

For questions regarding the course of studies and for examination issues:
Student and Examination Administration
Contact Examination Administration

Student Services Center (SSC)

Offers for prospective students

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