Metaphysics and Epistemology

Metaphysics and Epistemology at Radboud University offers a comprehensive exploration of some of the most fundamental questions about the nature of reality and our capacity to understand it. This programme is designed for students who are eager to delve into profound philosophical inquiries concerning existence, the structure of the world, and the limits of human knowledge. Throughout the course, students will engage with classic and contemporary debates, critically analyze philosophical arguments, and develop their own reasoned perspectives on complex metaphysical and epistemological issues.

The curriculum covers a wide array of topics including the nature of being, substance, causality, free will, and the nature of time and space in metaphysics. In the epistemology component, students will study the nature, sources, limits, and justification of knowledge, as well as issues related to skepticism, belief, and the distinction between knowledge and opinion. The programme encourages active participation through seminars, discussions, and writing assignments, fostering critical thinking and philosophical clarity.

Students have the opportunity to examine historical figures such as Aristotle, Kant, and Wittgenstein, alongside contemporary philosophical debates, allowing for a rich understanding of how metaphysical and epistemological questions have evolved over time. The programme also emphasizes the development of analytical skills necessary to assess philosophical texts and construct coherent arguments.

Radboud University’s approach combines rigorous academic training with an open philosophical inquiry, aiming to prepare students for careers in academia, research, education, or roles that demand high-level analytical and philosophical skills. Additionally, students can benefit from interdisciplinary perspectives, as metaphysical and epistemological questions often intersect with other fields like science, mathematics, and cognitive science. Graduates of the programme will be equipped to contribute thoughtfully to ongoing philosophical dialogues, addressing some of the most profound issues concerning reality and knowledge in both academic and practical contexts.

program_title: Metaphysics and Epistemology
degree: Master of Arts (MA)
faculty: Faculty of Philosophy, Theology and Religious Studies
description:
The Master’s programme in Metaphysics and Epistemology at Radboud University offers a comprehensive exploration of fundamental questions concerning the nature of reality and the structure of human knowledge. This programme is designed for students who are passionate about philosophical inquiry and eager to develop their analytical skills to address complex issues concerning existence, causality, consciousness, and the limits of epistemic certainty. Throughout the programme, students engage with both classical and contemporary philosophical texts, fostering a deep understanding of metaphysical debates on the nature of being, free will, and the mind-body problem, as well as epistemological questions about justification, belief, skepticism, and the possibility of knowledge.
Course content includes modules on the history of metaphysics and epistemology, contemporary debates in philosophy of mind and science, as well as seminars that encourage critical thinking and logical clarity. Students are also trained to formulate original philosophical arguments and participate in rigorous academic discussions. The programme aims to prepare graduates for careers in academia, research, or related fields where analytical and critical thinking are valued.
Students will have access to a vibrant academic community with experienced faculty members who are active researchers in metaphysics, epistemology, and philosophy of science. The curriculum combines lectures, seminars, workshops, and independent research projects, culminating in a master’s thesis that reflects the student's ability to engage deeply with philosophical issues and contribute original insights.
By choosing this programme, students will enhance their philosophical toolbox, learn to evaluate complex arguments, and develop a nuanced understanding of some of the most enduring questions in philosophy. Graduates will be equipped with skills that are highly valued in various professional contexts, including academia, education, policy analysis, and intellectual research. The programme’s interdisciplinary approach ensures that students are well-prepared to navigate and contribute to ongoing philosophical and scientific debates about the nature of reality and knowledge.

A completed Bachelor's degree in Philosophy or in a related discipline (in the latter case, students must have acquired at least 60 EC in Philosophical disciplines).

The applicant must have a degree with merit or distinction or equivalent. Meaning: a student’s weighted grade-point average in philosophy in the 2nd and 3rd year of their Bachelor's programme must be the equivalent of 7.5 or more (on the Dutch scale of 10).
On the page "Conversions of international grades" you will find an indication of what the equivalent of a Dutch 7.5 or 8 might be in the country where you obtained your Bachelor’s degree.

A proficiency in English

In order to take part in this programme, you need to have fluency in both written and spoken English. Non-native speakers of English* without a Dutch Master's degree must either have obtained a higher diploma from an English-teaching institution or be in possession of one of the following certificates:

• A TOEFL score of ≥577 (paper based) or ≥90 (internet based)
• An IELTS score of ≥6.5
• Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE) or Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE) with a mark of C or higher

Highly motivated

An applicant must be able to demonstrate to the Examination Board that they have serious research interests and skills. Applicant must write a motivation letter and send a writing sample which can help evaluate their research and writing skills.

There are various scholarships available for studying at Radboud University. Some of the opportunities are described below. A full list, including detailed information, can be found on our scholarships and grants page at our website. 

Radboud Scholarship Programme

Open to a select number of excellent international students. Instead of the institutional tuition fees, non-EEA students pay the legal tuition fees (€2,083 in 2019/2020). Visa and residence permit costs, liability insurance and health insurance are also covered.

Orange Tulip Scholarship

Open to students from Brazil, Mexico, Russia, Indonesia, South-Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, and China. Instead of the institutional tuition fees, non-EEA students pay the legal tuition fees (€2,083 in 2019/2020). Visa and residence permit costs, liability insurance and health insurance are also covered.

Fulbright-Radboud Scholarships

Open to excellent American students. The grant will be paid in 12 monthly instalments of 1,050 euros. International travel and the cost of the residence permit will be covered, and an extra allowance of €1150 will be paid on arrival.

Sino-Dutch Bilateral Exchange Scholarship

Open to excellent students from China. Consists of a contribution of € 16,113 towards the total costs of one year of study or research in the Netherlands.

DIKTI-Neso Scholarships

Aimed at lecturers at higher education institutions in Indonesia who wish to pursue a PhD or Master's at a university in the Netherlands. A DIKTI scholarship includes allowances for living expenses, insurance, travel costs, tuition fees and more.

Indonesian Education Scholarship (LPDP)

Open to excellent Indonesian students under the age of 35. Involves a full scholarship.

Holland Scholarship Programme

Open to excellent students from Canada, America, India and Turkey. Scholarship consists of 5,000 euros payed at the start of study.

Dutch Student Finance

EU/EEA students and Swiss students under 30 years of age are eligible if they are working at least 56 hours per month in the Netherlands, or have been living in the Netherlands for five years or more. Dutch student finance consists of four components: a basic grant, a supplementary grant (depending on the parental income), a student travel product, and a loan.

The Master's programme in Metaphysics and Epistemology at Radboud University is designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of fundamental questions about the nature of reality, knowledge, and human perception. The programme explores core themes such as the nature of existence, the structure of reality, the scope and limits of human knowledge, and the philosophical underpinnings of scientific inquiry. Students engage with a wide array of philosophical texts and theories, critically examining classical and contemporary debates in metaphysics and epistemology.

The curriculum typically includes courses on topics such as the nature of causality, free will, personal identity, the philosophy of science, and theories of justification and skepticism. Students develop skills in philosophical argumentation, analysis, and writing, which prepare them for careers in academia, research, or sectors that demand critical thinking and analytical skills. The program encourages active participation through seminars, presentations, and discussions, fostering a vibrant intellectual community.

Faculty members are established scholars in the field, offering mentorship and support tailored to individual research interests. Students have opportunities to undertake their own research projects, culminating in a master’s thesis that demonstrates their grasp of complex philosophical concepts. The programme may also include guest lectures, workshops, and conferences that expose students to the latest developments and debates within metaphysics and epistemology.

Radboud University’s location in Nijmegen provides an enriching environment for philosophical study, with access to a broad academic network and interdisciplinary resources. Graduates are well-equipped to pursue PhD studies or careers in education, publishing, policy analysis, or other fields where abstract thinking and rigorous argumentation are valued. Overall, the Master’s in Metaphysics and Epistemology aims to cultivate a deep philosophical insight into the most fundamental questions about existence and knowledge, combined with practical skills for academic and professional success.