Philosophy Stellenbosch University

Overview

The Philosophy programme at the Stellenbosch University entails the focusing, intensification and deepening of advanced training in the study and practise of Philosophy, with an eye towards independent research. In keeping with existing agreements with foreign universities, you can follow substitute modules at other universities, while remaining enrolled at Stellenbosch University on a full-time basis. 

The offer

The programme entails the focusing, intensification and deepening of advanced training in the study and practise of Philosophy, with an eye towards independent research.  A strong Honours degree in Philosophy, or a qualification judged to be equivalent by the Senate, is the usual prerequisite for admission into the MA Programme. The Department evaluates each application on its own merit, taking into account the full academic profile of the applicant.  We also take into account whether the Department possesses the necessary expertise to supervise the student on his or her topic of choice.

There are two ways to do the Master's degree: (i) the thesis only option and (ii) the structured option.

(i) The thesis only option, where the thesis counts 100% (or 180 credits) of the degree, is ideal for students who have a clear idea of the topic that they wish to pursue, and of the research question that they want to explore through independent research. Along with the identification of the topic, the early identification and procurement of an appropriate supervisor from within the ranks of the staff of the Department, is crucial. 

(ii) The structured option consists of five modules, namely a thesis which counts 50% (or 90 credits) of the degree and four 'tentamens', or smaller modules for which the student completes four different assessments that collectively make up the other 50% of the degree. This option is ideal for students who are interested in a broader orientation within the field of Philosophy at Master's level.