Master of Arts in Philosophy, Universität Bern
Explore fundamental questions of human existence through historical and contemporary philosophy at Switzerland’s leading humanities institution.
Best for:Best for students with a strong background in philosophy or related humanities disciplines who wish to deepen their expertise in historical and contemporary philosophical inquiry.
Overview
This Master of Arts programme at Universität Bern invites students to interrogate the core questions of human existence—from the nature of thought and language to ethics, politics, and culture. Rooted in the history of philosophy (ancient to modern) and contemporary debates, the curriculum spans logic, metaphysics, cognitive theory, ethics, political philosophy, and aesthetics. Students engage with diverse philosophical traditions while developing critical thinking and research skills. The programme is ideal for those seeking rigorous academic training in philosophy, with opportunities to specialise in interdisciplinary areas. Located in Bern, students benefit from a vibrant intellectual community and access to Switzerland’s renowned research infrastructure.
What you'll do
- Engage with foundational and contemporary philosophical texts across historical periods and disciplines.
- Develop and conduct independent research under faculty supervision, culminating in a master’s thesis.
- Participate in seminars and discussions on key philosophical concepts, theories, and debates.
- Analyse and critically evaluate philosophical arguments, methodologies, and ethical frameworks.
- Collaborate with peers and faculty on interdisciplinary projects related to philosophy and humanities.
- Present research findings in academic forums and contribute to departmental intellectual life.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy or a related discipline (e.g., Humanities, Social Sciences) from a recognised university.
Degree offered: Master of Arts (MA) in Philosophy
Language: German; proficiency sufficient for academic study and research (no formal test score required, but fluency is mandatory).
Instruction: German (with some courses potentially offered in English or French, depending on faculty).
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
- Proficient written and oral communication in German (language of instruction)
- Familiarity with key philosophical texts and historical movements
- Ability to conduct independent academic research
- Basic proficiency in philosophical methodologies and argumentation
- Applicants must hold a recognised Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy or a closely related field.
- No age or nationality restrictions apply.
- No prior work experience required.
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
Admissions not verified
A catalogue listing does not mean applications are open or funding is guaranteed. Check the source for your intake.
- Intake
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- Duration
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- Taught / research mode
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- Study mode
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- Prerequisites
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How to apply
Deadline: unknown (programme-specific deadlines apply; typically rolling or semester-based)
Applicants must submit an online application through the Universität Bern’s admissions portal. Required documents include a completed application form, a detailed curriculum vitae, a letter of motivation, academic transcripts, proof of language proficiency (if applicable), and a sample of academic writing (e.g., a philosophy essay). Some programmes may require letters of recommendation. The application process is handled directly through the university’s official portal.
- Completed application form
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Letter of motivation
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s degree)
- Proof of German language proficiency (if required)
- Sample of academic writing (e.g., philosophy essay)
- Letters of recommendation (if required)
Contact
Admissions Office, Philosophical Faculty· Admissions Coordinator
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