Master of Arts (Philosophy)
Overview
Talbot’s Master of Arts with a concentration in Philosophy is a rigorous and highly selective program that equips you to do philosophy from a Christian worldview and prepares you for a wide range of vocational callings.
Led and taught by renowned Christian philosophers, Talbot’s philosophy program is committed to developing thinkers who can give voice to the Christian worldview in intellectually credible ways — in the philosophical community, in academia, in the church, in popular culture and every other aspect of life. With an extensive track record of preparing students for competitive doctoral programs and careers, Talbot faculty are committed to the intellectual formation of all who seek to develop and sustain a vibrant intellectual life as part of being a follower of Christ.
- Learn from World-Renowned Philosophers and Faculty. William Lane Craig and J.P. Moreland — both of whom are widely recognized among the most influential living philosophers — are just two of the reputable philosophy professors you will interact with, in addition to numerous other leading Bible scholars and theologians. Talbot professors are widely published in scholarly journals and popular media, and are everyday practitioners who lecture all around the world. The wisdom they offer stretches beyond the in person and online class as faculty welcome opportunities to mentor students outside the classroom.
- Pursue Your Path to a Ph.D. in Philosophy. Talbot’s philosophy program offers a rigorous and rich experience through the study of metaphysics, epistemology, philosophy of religion, ethics and philosophical theology. This program continues to have one of the most successful placement rates in the most competitive doctoral philosophy programs, with students who have continued to doctoral programs at New York University, Princeton University, University of Southern California, University of Notre Dame, Northwestern University, University of Texas at Austin, University of St. Andrews, Oxford and elsewhere. (Those interested in doctoral work after studying at Biola should ask their admissions counselor for the Department of Philosophy's policy on letters of recommendation.)
- Prepare for a Wide Range of Vocations. Graduates have gone on to tenured or tenure-track positions at institutions including Baylor University, Loyola Marymount University, Pepperdine University and California State University, Sacramento, among others. In addition, the program develops graduates’ ability to do philosophy in various ministry programs, such as parachurch and local church apologetics, and in fields such as ethics, religious studies, law, political science and theology.
- Study Philosophy in a Theologically and Spiritually Engaged Way. Talbot’s philosophy program is distinct for its theological engagement, offering a broad education that intentionally prepares you to think philosophically from a Christian worldview — to become a Christian philosopher. Be conversant across multiple disciplines as you deepen your knowledge in contemporary analytic philosophy while being trained in the Scriptures and growing more attentive to the Spirit’s work in your life.
- Prepare to Engage with Others — In and Outside the Philosophical World. Talbot’s Master of Arts program is committed to preparing your whole self with classes on spiritual formation led by professors with a philosophical background. You will be equipped to engage with others in and outside of philosophy as you develop an understanding of yourself, others and the Spirit.
- Join a Community of Christian Philosophers. Talbot philosophy students experience a supportive and enriching community in the Talbot Philosophical Society (TPS), which hosts various events throughout the year, including an orientation, boot camp and several talks. TPS is a student-run organization on campus and often gathers at the Philosophy House, a university-owned home next to Biola.
For more reasons to choose Talbot School of Theology for your education, see the Why Talbot? page.
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Admissions & Deadlines
As a Christian institution, Biola seeks to admit applicants whose backgrounds clearly demonstrate scholarly aptitude, a commitment to the historic Christian faith, personal character and integrity, and a positive service-oriented motivation toward their field of study. Biola does not discriminate on the basis of the applicant's race, color, sex, socio-economic status, disability, or national or ethnic origin.
Education and GPA Requirements
- You must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution by the time you plan to start coursework at Biola, with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale).
- Note: If you do not meet the degree or GPA requirements above, you may still be considered for admission. Please contact the Office of Graduate Admissions office at graduate.admissions@biola.edu. If you are an international student, contact grad.international@biola.edu.
English Proficiency Requirements
- If English is not your first language, you are required to display your English proficiency before admittance into a Biola University graduate program. See “English Proficiency” in the application steps section below.
Application Deadlines
- Fall Semester
- General: July 1
- International Students
- On Campus: June 1
- Online/Hybrid: July 1
- Spring Semester
- General: November 1
- International Students: October 1
Visit Biola
Explore our sunny Southern California campus in person or virtually. Learn more about your program of interest and the admissions process by scheduling an appointment with an admissions counselor.
Meet Your Admissions Counselor
If you have more questions about the program, admissions process or Biola in general, schedule a phone call or send an email to your admissions counselor.
Graduate Admissions Counselor
International Graduate Admissions Counselor
The Office of International Admissions serves students who are not citizens or permanent residents of the United States.
Email: grad.international@biola.edu
Book a Phone or Virtual Appointment
