6 Best Online Master’s in Philosophy Programs

By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Dr. Jed Macosko

Published: Feb 1, 2024

Key Takeaways

Online master’s in philosophy degrees cover topics such as ethics, logic, metaphysics, epistemology, and the history of philosophical thought.
An online master’s in philosophy program is a stepping stone for doctoral studies or a job in law, ethics, or academia.
An online master’s degree in philosophy can help you to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical thinking skills.

Table of Contents

Many people assume that the wisdom of philosophy can only be passed down in traditional classrooms. We’ve searched for affordable online master’s degrees and found several schools offering the best online master’s in philosophy!

Being familiar with the struggle to find the best program post-graduation, we want to share our research so you can put your time and efforts into preparing for admission instead of finding schools.

Featured Programs

Best Online Masters in Philosophy

Online philosophy degrees are similar to the on-campus equivalents — covering essential topics such as ethics, logic, metaphysics, epistemology, and the history of philosophical thought.

These programs offer flexibility through electives or concentrations, allowing you to tailor your studies to align with your career aspirations.

Let’s learn about the philosophy programs for each college and their unique features:

#1
University of Arizona
Tucson , AZ
#3 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #13 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2024 #19 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2024 #1 Best Colleges in Arizona 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$13K
Acceptance
87%
Graduation
68%
Student body
54K
Median SAT/ACT
1255/25
- Tuition: $500/credit
- Distance Education Reciprocity Agreement: WICHE
- Application Fee: $65
Students taking degrees at the University of Arizona (UofA) join a vibrant and diverse learning community. As a Hispanic-serving institution, the university proudly enrolls about 28% Hispanic students, with nearly half of its student body coming from nonwhite backgrounds.
Arizona Online, UofA’s distance learning campus, creates a tight-knit community where students regularly engage with professors, peers, tutors, coaches, and alum mentors. UofA has over 150 online offerings and a Philosophy BA specializing in ethics.
This 120-semester-credit program, also available on campus, allows students to delve into law, policy and social justice, psychology and human behavior, and social and behavioral sciences.
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#2
Oregon State University
Corvallis , OR
#15 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #2 Best Public Colleges in Oregon 2024 #2 Best Grad Schools in Oregon 2024 #2 Best Research Universities in Oregon 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$13K
Acceptance
83%
Graduation
70%
Student body
40K
- Tuition: $350/credit
- Distance Education Reciprocity Agreement: WICHE
- Application Fee: $65
In 1994, Oregon State University in Corvallis pioneered by launching its first online course – an introduction to philosophy. Today, this affordable public university has expanded its online offerings to over 100 programs, connecting with nearly 13,000 learners across the globe.
However, it’s not just about online lectures, remote learners get to dive into faculty research projects, join student clubs, snag internships, and even participate in the university’s honors program. Regarding their online philosophy degree, Oregon State breaks the mold.
There are no set core courses. Instead, students have the freedom to design their degree paths.
It offers courses that tackle current issues like environmentalism and biomedical ethics, encouraging students to look at philosophy through various cultural lenses.
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Huge library with sculpted portrait busts of ancient philosophers

#3
University of Memphis
Memphis , TN
#2 Best Public Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #3 Best Colleges in Tennessee 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
95%
Graduation
48%
Student body
25K
Median SAT/ACT
1080/20
- Tuition: $431/credit (in-state)
- Distance Education Reciprocity Agreement: SREB
- Application Fee: $25
University of Memphis students can pursue an online MA in Philosophy focusing on applied ethics. This public research university has been a pioneer in online education since 1995.
Among its student population of over 22,000, around 4,500 are earning their degrees through UofM Global – the university’s dedicated distance learning division.
Online students aren’t just studying remotely; they have round-the-clock access to essential resources like tutoring, counseling, and tech support. They also learn alongside diverse peers, enriching their educational experience.
Over half of students come from nonwhite backgrounds, including 38% Black, and about half are Pell Grant recipients. A bonus for distance learners is that it offers a tuition rate equivalent to in-state tuition, regardless of location.
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#4
Portland State University
Portland , OR
#3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #3 Best Public Colleges in Oregon 2024 #3 Best Grad Schools in Oregon 2024 #3 Best Research Universities in Oregon 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
93%
Graduation
53%
Student body
28K
- Tuition: $207/credit (in-state)
- Distance Education Reciprocity Agreement: WICHE
- Application Fee: $60
Portland State University (PSU) is located in the heart of Oregon’s largest metropolitan area. It offers more than just a typical urban university experience. At PSU, philosophy students immerse themselves in the city’s intellectual and cultural pulse.
Philosophy isn’t just about textbooks here. It’s about engaging with real-world ideas. Students get to participate in guest lectures, bring new insights to their studies, and join vibrant online discussions through the Socratic Society and the student philosophy club.
The program requires 180 quarter credits. It emphasizes interactive learning, ensuring students connect with instructors and peers in real-time. For those opting for online courses, it’s worth noting that PSU charges an additional $22 per credit, a small premium for the flexibility of studying from anywhere.
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Woman sitting on the grass outdoors and reading a book while her laptop is in front of her

#5
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Greensboro , NC
#7 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2024 #5 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #7 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2024
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$7K
Acceptance
92%
Graduation
58%
Student body
21K
Median SAT/ACT
1195/24
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
- Tuition: $184/credit (in-state)
- Distance Education Reciprocity Agreement: SREB
- Application Fee: $65
Founded in 1891, the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG) began as a women’s college. It has been welcoming students of all genders since 1964. Today, it’s a vibrant, diverse hub for about 18,000 students, with a significant number being Pell Grant recipients or the first in their families to attend college.
Impressively, nearly 60% of UNCG’s student body is nonwhite, including almost a third who are Black students. UNCG offers an MA in Philosophy both on campus and online, providing a rich blend of applied and theoretical perspectives.
There’s a pre-law concentration available for those eyeing a career in law. If you are aiming higher, an honors degree is also an option. It’s worth noting that UNCG has a modest online course fee of $20 per credit. Although they already seem like an inexpensive online college, you can even find reach out and check if they offer free master’s programs for their students.
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#6
University of Tennessee at Martin
Martin , TN
#4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #8 Best Public Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #8 Most Affordable Colleges in Tennessee 2024 #7 Best Online MBA Programs in Tennessee
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
88%
Graduation
53%
Student body
8K
Median SAT/ACT
1130/22
- Tuition: $426/credit (in-state)
- Distance Education Reciprocity Agreement: SREB
- Application Fee: $30
The University of Tennessee at Martin (UT Martin) is one of the five institutions in the University of Tennessee complex. It offers a range of learning options for students, which includes its online division, main campus, and five regional education centers.
At UT Martin, students interested in philosophy have the choice between MA and MS tracks for their online degree. The program features four core courses that delve into ethics, logic, and the philosophical thoughts of the ancient, medieval, and modern eras.
Beyond this core, philosophy majors can personalize their education with 18 credits of upper-division courses that align with their goals and interests. Students complete a comprehensive exam and compile an academic writing portfolio to cap off their studies, showcasing their growth and expertise in the field.
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Woman typing on a keyboard while she's reading a book

Online Master’s in Philosophy Program – What You Should Know

An online master’s in philosophy program is a stepping stone for students aiming for doctoral studies or seeking a deep understanding of advanced philosophical concepts.

Key skills developed in this program include constructing well-reasoned arguments, critical thinking, problem-solving, analytical thinking, and logical analysis.

Students can align their studies with specific career paths or doctoral programs by choosing electives and specializations. Common courses in a philosophy master’s degree might include:

History of Ancient and Medieval Philosophy

This course takes you through two distinct periods: the Latin West up to the early Middle Ages and then onward to the close of the 12th century. It delves into the influential works of renowned philosophers such as Aristotle and Plato, offering a deep dive into their timeless ideas.

Philosophy of Science, Methodology, and Epistemology

This course invites students to delve into the groundbreaking developments of the early 20th century by general philosophers of science. It focuses on the key philosophical discoveries that shaped scientific research in philosophy.

Formal Philosophy and Philosophical Logic

In this course, students dive into the study of how different propositions logically connect. They learn to identify propositions and grasp their special concepts.

Moral Philosophy

This course equips students with an understanding of various theories and the essence of morality, guiding them in making decisions about the right actions and the reasons behind them.

Theology

This course takes students through the philosophical examination of nature and the essence of religion. It involves analyzing religious beliefs, terms, practices, and concepts related to followers of various faiths.

Student Submitted Questions on the Best Onliine Master’s in Philosophy Programs

Kandace asks, “Is a master in philosophy useful? And, would I be able to get a good job with this degree?”

Dr. James Barham’s answer: Speaking as someone who studied philosophy, a master’s in philosophy equips students with skills that can help them get jobs in law, ethics, or academia. While it might not be as versatile as some other degrees, such as business, it will still open doors that a graduate would have otherwise not been let into. My only caution is to make sure you have thought through what your career goals are and that a master’s in philosophy would move you closer to those goals.

Colin asks, “Can I do an MSc in philosophy?”

Dr. Jed Macosko’s answer: Yes, you can do an MSc in philosophy. Many universities offer this degree and cover topics such as philosophy of science, metaphysics, ethics, logic, and philosophy of mind. I would research the schools you are interested in and find programs that most closely align with what you want to study. Most will require a bachelor’s degree in philosophy or a related field, so make sure you look into the admissions requirements as well.

Conclusion

These are our recommendations for an online master’s in philosophy you can get this year. Each comes with unique challenges and a scope of study. Pick according to your interests and unlock the power of your mind with the diverse disciplines of Philosophy.

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