Communication and Information Studies: Rhetoric, Argumentation Theory and Philosophy (research)

The Master's in Rhetoric, Argumentation Theory and Philosophy (RAP) provides a solid foundation for understanding the diverse ways in which ordinary language is used in various types of discourse.

The programme also provides a solid theoretical and methodological foundation for understanding texts as a means of convincing others of a given viewpoint or idea. Crucial concepts from the rhetorical, dialectical and logical approaches used in argumentative discourse analysis, evaluation and production are examined and discussed in a systematic fashion. Relevant insights from speech act theory, Gricean analysis of rational interaction, discourse analysis, and formal and informal logic provide a framework in this process. All major classical and modern approaches to the reasonableness and rationality of institutionalised and non-institutionalised types of discourse are considered, from juridical and political discourse to spontaneous everyday conversations. Students also become familiar with the methods and techniques of qualitative and quantitative empirical research in the fields of discourse analysis, argumentation theory, formal and informal logic, and rhetoric. This in turn enables them to carry out thorough and theoretically justified analyses, case studies and other types of investigations of real-life discussions and texts.

The programme in Rhetoric, Argumentation Theory and Philosophy (research) is ideal for students who wish to acquire a sound intellectual basis for conducting research in the interrelated fields of rhetoric, argumentation and philosophy. The programme provides students with insight not only into the normative and descriptive study of communication and argumentation, but also into the philosophical conceptions of rationality and reasonableness in which they are grounded.

Programme outline

The programme in Rhetoric, Argumentation Theory and Philosophy (research) yields 120 credits: 30 credits for core courses, 30 credits for specific courses, 30 credits for electives or tutorials and 30 credits for a Master's thesis.

The specific number of credits a student is required to obtain through coursework is determined by the admissions committee and is based on the student's previous qualifications. Fulfilment of all the requirements will take at least two years. Students with a related Master's degree should be able to complete the programme in one year (70 ECTS credits).

Depending on students' individual background and qualifications, the programme director may determine, in consultation with the instructors concerned, that certain courses may be wholly or partially replaced by electives or tutorials.

Electives/Tutorials

The electives and tutorials serve two purposes: to prepare students for writing their thesis and to broaden their knowledge of and insight into specific areas of interest.

The programme director may stipulate that certain students take courses in academic writing and presentation skills. Students can also choose to enrol in such courses voluntarily.

Colloquium

Students attend guest lectures given by visiting professors. They also join faculty members in monthly research colloquiums, in which students actively participate by giving and responding to presentations.

Thesis

The Master's thesis reports on research carried out by the student under the supervision of two academic staff members involved in the programme. The subject of the thesis must be mutually agreed upon by the student and the academic adviser(s). The final draft should be between 25,000 and 35,000 words.

Degree requirements

Students who successfully complete this programme receive a Master's degree in Communication and Information Studies and the title Master of Arts (MA).

Credit transfer

Students who show exceptional promise during a Regular or Professional Master's programme are encouraged to continue their studies in a Research Master's programme. Once students are admitted to the Research Master's programme, they can transfer credits earned during their previous course of study towards their Research Master's degree. The examination committee determines which courses qualify for transfer.

Grade average: Rma grade average: - A/3.8 (American system); - 2.1 HONS (an upper second class degree in the British system); - B (ECTS-system), or 7.5 (Dutch system). Written request: Students can apply for the selection procedure for this master from 1 December until 1 April by filling out the digital application form and uploading the necessary documents via the website of the Graduate School of Humanities. Language test: IELTS: average score 7 TOEFL: score 100 Cambridge Advanced English: score A2 Cambridge Proficiency in English: score B1 Previous education: The Research Master’s in Rhetoric, Argumentation Theory and Philosophy is open to all students with a Bachelor’s diploma from the UvA, or a recognised equivalent from another accredited university in: - Language and Communication - Philosophy - General Linguistics - Sign Linguistics - Dutch Language and Culture The level of the Bachelor's diploma from a foreign higher education institution must be equal to three years of Dutch university education (to be judged by the Examinations Board). Prospective students with Bachelor’s degrees (university) other than those mentioned above can nonetheless apply for admission to the programme. The Examinations Board will in such cases take a look at the content of the prospective student’s Bachelor programme, his/her study results and general motivation. Additional language requirements:Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English: A2Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English: B1IELTS overall band: 7IELTS listening: 7IELTS reading: 7IELTS writing: 7IELTS speaking: 7TOEFL internet based: 100 English Language Requirements IELTS band: 7 CAE score: (read more) Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) is part of the Cambridge English suite and is targeted at a high level (IETLS 6.5-8.0). It is an international English language exam set at the right level for academic and professional success. Developed by Cambridge English Language Assessment - part of the University of Cambridge - it helps you stand out from the crowd as a high achiever. 80 (Grade A) TOEFL iBT® test: 100

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Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

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Scholarships / Grants:

The University of Amsterdam:
The University of Amsterdam provides a limited number of full and partial scholarships for excellent students from outside the European Economic Area. The Amsterdam Merit Scholarships have specifically been designed to offer talented, ambitious and dedicated students the opportunity to pursue a Mast
For additional information: Website

Accreditation

Accredited by: NVAO in: The Netherlands