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The Texas A&M Ph.D. program is unique in requiring that the student earn, in addition to the Ph.D., a supporting master's (or higher level) degree in field other than philosophy.
Nearly every area of philosophy overlaps with at least one other discipline, and research that crosses disciplinary boundaries is becoming increasingly important. By obtaining a degree in a supporting field, Ph.D. recipients enhance their research capabilities, develop the quality and content of their teaching, and enhance their employability.
Supporting degrees may come from a host of fields. Students pursuing a Ph.D. in political philosophy may, for example, wish to earn an MA or MS in political science. Those interested in environmental ethics might consider a supporting degree in wildlife or ecology. To date, we have also had students adopt business, biology, computer science, engineering, English, Hispanic studies, history, psychology, and theology as supporting master's degrees.
Applicants who already hold a degree at the master's level and wish to count it as their supporting degree should explain, in their statement of purpose, how the degree supports their research and teaching interests in philosophy.
Other applicants are expected to secure admission to a master's program in an approved field by the end of their second year of study.
All supporting degrees must be approved by the Department's Graduate Program Advisory Council.
