Department of Philosophy
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Ph.D. Program
Applicants need not have completed an M.A. degree before applying to the Ph.D. program. 
The Ph.D. program comprises two stages. In the first stage, students fulfill requirements in four areas: (a) metaphysics and epistemology; (b) history of philosophy; (c) ethics and value theory; and (d) logic, language, and science. Students must also fulfill a language requirement, usually in Ancient Greek, French, German, or Latin. The second stage of the program normally begins in a student's third year; he or she will prepare and defend a dissertation prospectus before beginning work on the dissertation. Students generally are encouraged to complete their dissertation by the end of their fifth year at Purdue.
In addition to the regular graduate program in philosophy, the department also participates in interdisciplinary programs in philosophy and literature (in conjunction with the Department of English), and in philosophy and communication (in conjunction with the Department of Communication). More detailed information about these programs can be obtained by writing to Jeffrey Brower, the Director of Graduate Recruiting, Admissions and Funding at brower@purdue.edu