Philosophy
Overview
Contents of the subject Philosophy
If you are interested in writing your own philosophical contributions, the Bielefeld Master's in Philosophy is the right place for you, as this is the main focus of this degree programme. In particular, you will learn to develop your own contributions and discuss them with others. To this end, you will work in small groups to analyse complex philosophical topics in depth.
You will deepen your philosophical knowledge in various areas of Philosophy and can set your own priorities in terms of content. Graduate and workshop seminars are competently led teaching events that provide a forum for intensive discussion among the participants. The discussion is based on a thorough study of texts, for which you will be given sufficient time in the degree programme. In addition to written skills, the presentation workshop will train you to give your first presentations. In the satellite seminar, you can work on your own topic ideas in small groups in guided self-study and pursue your own projects in the project module. The department's colloquia enable you to discuss philosophical work with researchers at later career stages. And with the perspective module, you have a place in your degree programme that will help you choose the right option for you from the many available.
Not only will you be well prepared for the academic practice of Philosophy, but you will also acquire the qualifications that make Philosophy graduates successful in other professional fields: analytical and argumentative skills, the ability to develop topics independently and the ability to write appropriate and convincing texts. These skills are sought after in a wide range of appointments, for example in publishing, public relations, foundations, etc.
Contact persons
Advantages of the subject Philosophy at Bielefeld University
Career prospects
What are the access requirements?
Access to the Master programme is granted to those who can provide evidence that they have a first university degree which has a standard period of study of at least six semesters, qualifies for exercising a profession and is in accordance with the subject-specific regulations.
In any case, please read the specific Admission requirements for this Masters programme in the Subject-specific regulations (PDF).
Degrees from accredited Bachelor programmes at German ‘Berufsakademien’ are equivalent to Bachelor degrees from universities.
Applicants with a university degree obtained abroad are granted access provided that the degree they have acquired is deemed sufficient for this purpose and they can provide evidence of the required language skills.
Further information on the application process for prospective international students and the language requirements.
Special conditions apply to applicants with a foreign certificate of education.
What formalities are important?
Course start
Studies can be commenced in both winter and summer semesters. Courses are targeted to commencing studies in winter semester. Student counselling to plan the course of studies is recommended.
Length and scope of studies
The standard period of studies is 4 semesters. Information on studying part time.
The studies Philosophy comprise 120 credit points.
Application, admission, and enrolment
The study places for this degree programme are not subject to any admission restrictions (numerus clausus). Nevertheless, you need to apply within the currently applicable application deadlines.
As soon as you receive a positive response in the application and status portal (notice of access from the faculty), you can submit your application for enrolment within the set deadline.
Step by step to a Master programme without NC
Special conditions apply to applicants with a foreign certificate of education.
The courses
You will find the programme of lectures for this course in the eKVV.
An overview of the introductory and information events is provided by the central student counselling services.
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The information on admission restrictions / numerus clausus (NC) refers to applications for the winter semester 2026/27 and summer semester 2027.
Information on NC values from previous years