Philosophy

Abstract

• Show the study programme profile

  Profile of the study programme

  The master programme in Philosophy offers an in-depth approach to the main issues and currents of Western philosophical tradition, from Antiquity to the contemporary period. The course promotes the development of a critical mind and intellectual autonomy and provides the basic education and tools required by future teachers and philosophy teachers, as well as possibilities for doctorate-level research.

  Fribourg profile
  The Department of Philosophy of the University of Fribourg offers a master programme that is unique in Switzerland due to the wealth of methods used, the systematic scope, bilingual aspect and the close ties with the research activities of others in the field. The master programme offers advanced, in-depth training in the following fields:

  • Systematic Philosophy: epistemology and metaphysics; philosophy of language, of mind and of human sciences; ethics and political philosophy; aesthetics and philosophy of art
  • History of Philosophy: ancient philosophy; medieval philosophy; modern and contemporary philosophy

  In addition to a broad bilingual course, the Department of Philosophy of the University of Fribourg also constitutes an important research centre in the fields of the History of Philosophy and Systematic Philosophy. Within this framework, several international research colloquia and conferences are organised each semester, bringing master's students together with the philosophical community.

  Learning outcomes and career openings
  In addition to having in-depth knowledge of philosophical issues and a good grasp of specific methodological tools, students who successfully complete the master programme will also have the ability to think, analyse, summarise and criticise, qualities that form the basis for all debates. Master studies give students the opportunity to put into practice the tools and knowledge acquired during the bachelor course on more advanced and more specific issues. Students will have had the opportunity to perfect their rhetorical and argumentative skills on a variety of scientific philosophy subjects. Holders of a master's degree will be able to demonstrate the quality, relevance, rigour and creativity of their work.

  In addition to research and education, a course in philosophy provides career opportunities in a number of fields that require a high level of intellectual training. The specific skills developed through studying philosophy, such as analysis, argumentation and writing skills, or the ability to deal with complex problems independently and creatively, are appreciated in a variety of fields:

  • Non-governmental organisations (e.g .national and international Red Cross);
  • Cantonal and federal administrative departments in Switzerland (fields of culture, politics, diplomacy, migration);
  • Human resources;
  • Journalism and media;
  • Consultancies (world of finance, medical professions, culture);
  • Communication and public relations;
  • Consultants/experts in subjects related to ethics;
  • Adult education;
  • Executive positions.

Studies organisation

Structure of studies

Curriculum

Admission

Alternatives

Minor study programmes to be chosen