Philosophy: Teaching Philosophy (Ph.D.)

Frequently asked questions

• How much does Philosophy: Teaching Philosophy (Ph.D.) cost?

  CAD 6,078 / year.

• What English score does it need?

  IELTS 6.5 overall is the score listed for this programme.

• What are the entry requirements?

  McGill Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies minimum (all applicants, regardless of country): a Bachelor's degree (or equivalent as recognized by McGill) in a subject closely related to the one selected for graduate studies; unless otherwise specified, a Master's program requires a four-year undergraduate degree in a related area, and a doctoral (PhD) program generally requires a Master's degree in a related area; minimum CGPA 3.0 out of 4.0, or GPA 3.2 out of 4.0 in the last two years of full-time studies (some departments require more). Credentials are assessed for equivalency with a McGill degree. Source: https://www.mcgill.ca/gradapplicants/how-apply || Department admission requirements (https://coursecatalogue.mcgill.ca/en/graduate/arts/philosophy/): Ph.D.: The Department admits students into two degrees: Master of Arts, specialization in Biomedical Ethics, and a Doctor of Philosophy. Ph.D. 1 is a direct-entry program for students with an Honours B.A. degree in Philosophy or the equivalent. Ph.D. 2 is a program for students who hold an M.A. degree in Philosophy, or equivalent. At present, we do not consider applicants for an M.A. in Philosophy. We offer an M.A. specialization in Bioethics in conjunction with the Biomedical Ethics Unit. Information for students interested in the Specialty M.A. in Biomedical Ethics can be found here: mcgill.ca/equity-ethics-policy/education/masters-specialization-bioethics. The Department considers an adequate undergraduate training in philosophy to be one that provides a student with: - a general knowledge of the history of Western philosophy: Greek, Medieval, Modern; - a systematic knowledge of the main philosophical disciplines in their contemporary as well as historical contexts: logic, ethics, epistemology, and metaphysics; - an ability to present, in written form, clear and substantial reconstructions and analyses of the materials normally studied in the areas mentioned in (1) and (2). To demonstrate their competence in these areas, applicants must submit transcripts of academic work, three letters of recommendation from persons with whom they have studied, and at least one substantial example (approximately 15–20 typewritten pages) of their written philosophical work. In addition, applicants from North America whose first language is English are strongly encouraged to submit scores of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). Applicants to graduate studies whose mother tongue is not English, and who have not completed an undergraduate or graduate degree from a recognized foreign institution where English is the language of instruction or from a recognized Canadian institution (anglophone or francophone), must submit documented proof of competency in oral and written English (TOEFL score). || Additional requirements set by the department: - Letters of Reference — three (3) original letters of reference, from three qualified individuals familiar with your work - Writing Sample (15–20 pages) — a sample of your written work in philosophy - Personal Statement (2–3 pages) — explaining your reasons for wishing to undertake graduate studies in philosophy at McGill University · English: IELTS 6.5; TOEFL iBT 120 · English test waiver: Proof of English proficiency is normally not required if the applicant: has obtained (or is about to obtain) an undergraduate or graduate degree from a recognized institution in Canada or the United States of America (anglophone or francophone); or has obtained (or is about to obtain) an undergraduate or graduate degree from a recognized foreign institution where English is the language of instruction; or has lived and attended university, or been employed, for at least four consecutive years, in a country where English is the acknowledged primary language. Documentation proving the condition must be sent directly to the department, which then waives the requirement. Source: https://www.mcgill.ca/gradapplicants/how-apply/you-apply-mcgill/proficiency · GRE/GMAT: In addition, applicants from North America whose first language is English are strongly encouraged to submit scores of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) · Application fee: CAD 143.82, non-refundable - McGill GPS states this as the graduate application fee for Summer 2027; one fee covers up to two applications in the same term; payable by credit card only; GPS offers no application fee waivers; some programs may have additional fees. Source: https://www.mcgill.ca/gradapplicants/how-apply/application-support

• Is there a scholarship?

  Students accepted to McGill's thesis-based graduate degree programs (Thesis Master's and PhD) receive a funding letter with their offer of admission. Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies allocates internal Differential Fee Waivers (covering the difference between International and Quebec-resident tuition) to faculties for international doctoral students, and exceptionally to international thesis Master's students; 2026/2027 value: Master's CAD 18,231.00, PhD CAD 16,045.20; awarded only on unit nomination, no application form. Citizens of countries with a Quebec tuition agreement (all French citizens and a limited number of others) may be eligible for external exemptions from the international supplement View scholarship page