Graduate School Bulletin

The Master of Philosophy Degree

The degree of Master of Philosophy is intended as a formal recognition of what is informally known as “ABD” status. This degree is normally reserved for students who have advanced to candidacy in a Ph.D. program but are unable to complete the remaining requirements. The degree implies educational achievements well beyond those required for a regular master’s degree.

The Master of Philosophy degree is available in every program that awards the Ph.D. Requirements for the M. Phil. are identical to those for the Ph.D., except that the submission and defense of the dissertation are not required.

Students must be advanced to candidacy for one full year before receiving a Master of Philosophy degree.