MA in the UK

[Wafer]

Are MA degree programs in the UK comparable to MA degree programs in the US? Would MA philosophy students in the UK study the same material in the same amount of depth as their counterparts in the US?

 

Many graduate philosophy modules in the UK are worth 20 credits. Does the number of credits equal the amount of hours spent in class?

[ianfaircloud]

Are MA degree programs in the UK comparable to MA degree programs in the US?

 

Comparable in what way?

[Duns Eith]

[edit: I offered, I think, top notch information regarding the US's programs... ]

Edited June 3, 2015 by Turretin

[Wafer]

Comparable in what way?

 

Do the UK philosophy graduate programs cover similar material in the same amount of depth compared with the US programs?

[overoverover]

Do the UK philosophy graduate programs cover similar material in the same amount of depth compared with the US programs?

From what I have read and heard, that seems to be the case. It probably varies by school, as some are 1 year and others are 2 (and some UK departments don't have an MA, but some other, similar degree).

[ianfaircloud]

Do the UK philosophy graduate programs cover similar material in the same amount of depth compared with the US programs?

 

Your question requires a generalization about American programs. In my experience, the curricula (including graduation requirements, courses offered, etc.) vary widely across American programs. For that reason it's difficult to generalize. Just to speak in terms of program requirements, some American programs are very flexible with requirements, while others are more specific. I get the impression that larger programs typically have more specific requirements. To my knowledge, the most flexible program is Brandeis's. Tufts's is somewhat flexible. Georgia State's program requirements are quite specific. So even in terms of program requirements, there is no way to generalize about American programs.

 

There's only one really important thing that I can think to mention here: not all American programs require either a thesis or an exam. I.e. some programs require neither of these things. To my knowledge, this is fairly unique to some American programs. I've written elsewhere that I think there are advantages to the flexibility of such programs. Some people do better under these conditions.

[ianfaircloud]

One more thing: I should say that Oxford's BPhil looks very interesting to me. I've heard vague recommendations, but maybe someone who has experienced the program directly can offer comment.