Philosophy

The Philosophy program at Rice University offers students an in-depth exploration of fundamental questions concerning existence, knowledge, ethics, logic, and the nature of reality. Designed to challenge critical thinking and foster analytical skills, the curriculum provides a comprehensive foundation in both historical and contemporary philosophical topics. Students have the opportunity to engage with classical texts from ancient Greece through modern philosophical movements, developing a nuanced understanding of diverse perspectives and arguments. The program emphasizes rigorous reasoning, clear expression, and philosophical methodology, preparing graduates for careers across a range of fields including academia, law, public policy, and beyond.

The curriculum includes core courses in logic, epistemology, metaphysics, ethics, and history of philosophy, complemented by elective courses that allow students to specialize in areas such as philosophy of science, philosophy of mind, political philosophy, and aesthetics. Small class sizes and close faculty mentorship foster active dialogue and personalized academic development. Students are encouraged to participate in original research projects, seminars, and conferences, gaining practical experience in philosophical inquiry and presentation. Rice’s Philosophy program also promotes interdisciplinary study, offering connections with departments such as cognitive sciences, computer science, and anthropology, enabling students to apply philosophical insights to a broad array of intellectual questions.

Career support services and alumni networks assist students in translating their philosophical training into successful professional paths. With a commitment to fostering critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and intellectual curiosity, the Philosophy program at Rice University prepares students to become thoughtful contributors to society, equipped with the analytical skills necessary for complex problem-solving and effective communication. Whether pursuing advanced graduate study or entering the workforce directly, graduates leave equipped with a rigorous intellectual toolkit and a deep appreciation for the profound questions that shape human understanding.

• Candidate must complete with high standing 42 hours of course work approved by the department
• Demonstrate competence in logic
• Pass a qualifying examination
• Perform satisfactorily on an oral defense of their thesis proposal
• Complete a written thesis on a subject approved by the department (at least one year of thesis research must be spent in residence)
• Perform satisfactorily on a final oral examination

1. Application Form: A completed https://philgradapps.rice.edu for admission.
2. Unofficial Transcripts: From all colleges and universities attended.
3. Recommendations: A minimum of three letters of recommendation who are familiar with the applicant’s scholastic and personal qualities. Submitting four letters is strongly encouraged.
4. GRE: Scores from the GRE® General Test
   - The school code for reporting your score is 6609.
   - The department code is 2801.
5. TOEFL: The Test of English as a Foreign Language test is required for any student whose native language is not English, but is waived for an international student who received a degree from a university in which English is the official language of communication.
6. Fee: A $85 nonrefundable application fee paid online by credit card or electronic check with your application form.
7. Writing Sample: 5 to 15 page philosophy paper, emphasizing philosophical virtues like clarity, focus, and solid argumentation. Originality, critical thinking, and evidence of familiarity with important philosophical concepts are, of course, also important. 

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

Typically, every student accepted into our Ph.D. program receives substantial financial support – a full tuition waiver and a full stipend (for five years, assuming satisfactory progress).

The level of our Ph.D. stipend is about $21,000. 

The total value of the average financial award, including both stipend and tuition waiver, is more than $47,000 per year.

In some cases Ph.D. students receive financial support for a full six years.

Stipend support is not dependent on a heavy load of teaching assistance, as it is in the case of many financial awards at Philosophy Departments around the country. In the first year of graduate study, no work for the Department is required at all. In subsequent years, a modest amount of teaching assistance or research assistance for the Department is required in connection with the Rice University stipend. As an additional benefit, in the later years of one’s Ph.D. work, opportunities exist for teaching one’s own courses at Rice University. Such teaching is paid for over and above the stipend payment, and it helps build a record of teaching experience beyond that involved in simply assisting full faculty members in their courses.

The Philosophy program at Rice University offers students an opportunity to engage with fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, reasoning, and the nature of reality. The curriculum is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and philosophical rigor, preparing students for diverse career paths or graduate study. The program covers a broad range of philosophical disciplines, including metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, political philosophy, philosophy of mind, and the history of philosophy. Students can explore the works of key philosophers from ancient to modern periods, gaining insights into different philosophical traditions and methodologies.

The program emphasizes a combination of theoretical and applied philosophy, encouraging students to connect philosophical concepts with real-world issues. Courses often include discussions on moral dilemmas, social justice, scientific reasoning, and the implications of philosophical theories in contemporary society. Undergraduate students have access to small class sizes, promoting active participation and personalized instruction. Faculty members are recognized scholars engaged in research across various philosophical fields, providing mentorship and fostering an intellectually stimulating environment.

Rice University also offers minors and concentrations in philosophy for students pursuing other majors, allowing for a versatile academic experience. The department supports undergraduate research opportunities, including senior theses and conference participation, fostering scholarly development. Additionally, students can attend lectures, seminars, and philosophical workshops hosted by the department or affiliated institutions.

Graduates of the Philosophy program have pursued careers in law, education, public policy, business, technology, and further graduate studies in philosophy or related disciplines. The program aims to cultivate not only philosophical knowledge but also skills in logical reasoning, ethical analysis, clear communication, and abstract thinking, preparing students for leadership roles in various sectors. Overall, the philosophy curriculum at Rice University combines rigorous academic training with opportunities for personal and intellectual growth, providing a solid foundation for diverse professional pathways or advanced study.