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Get ready for a PhD in Philosophy

Master in Philosophy

2 years, 120 ECTS

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MAP

Join now our Master in Philosophy

The Master in Philosophy (MAP) at USI is a research-oriented two-year master’s degree designed to prepare students for the most demanding international PhDs in philosophy. 

 Taught entirely in English, the MAP focuses on four core areas: Metaphysics, Philosophy of Mind, Logic, and Philosophy of Physics. It stands out for the international stature of its professors, including world-renowned scholars such as Achille Varzi, Timothy Williamson, Kathrin Koslicki, Francesco Berto, and many others. 

 Small class sizes ensure close interaction between students and professors. Each student is also assigned one professor as a personal tutor, providing regular one-on-one meetings, detailed feedback on written work, and guidance on future academic careers. 

 As a research-oriented programme, the MAP places strong emphasis on developing students’ analytical and research skills. It requires students to submit regular written work, produce research papers, and refine their presentation and discussion abilities. The programme also encourages active engagement with the international philosophical community through conferences, workshops, and academic debates. 

 Since 2019–20, approximately 90% of MAP graduates interested in an academic career have gone on to pursue a fully funded PhD. To name just a few, our alumni have continued their studies at prestigious institutions such as the Universities of Oxford, St Andrews, Geneva, and the University of Southern California. 

Why should you choose this Master in Philosophy? Because we prepare our students for the most demanding PhD programmes in Philosophy. Various strategies and opportunities have been designed for students to be ready for their PhD applications. Thanks to such strategies and the disciplinary focus of the programme, most of the MAP students who applied for a PhD programme received an offer before graduating.

Studying at USI

Attending the MAP was an invaluable opportunity that greatly benefited my career development. I was able to improve my research skills and learn how to effectively write academic papers, thanks to the significant support of the professors.

Lorenzo Lorenzetti, PhD student at the University of Bristol, Master of Arts in Philosophy, 2021

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Why l'Università della Svizzera italiana (USI)?

USI is a young and agile university that offers its students a quality education and an enhancing study experience. International faculty teach students with an interdisciplinary, engaging and interactive approach, leaving room for practical application.

The quality of the study curricula is complemented by USI small size, its cosmopolitan environment and its informal and dynamic culture.

These elements make USI a hub of opportunity open to the world, where students can engage in direct dialogue with their professors and define their educational path, discover unexpected horizons, and embrace international careers.

Università della Svizzera italiana (USI) is a recognised or accredited Swiss university. Academic qualifications obtained at USI Faculties are therefore also recognised abroad, on the basis of international conventions.

L'USI in figures

4'536 Enrolled students
1/7 Teacher / student ratio
93% Employment rate
9° In THE World's Best Small Universities ranking 2024

USI's campus in Lugano

The USI campus in Lugano is a modern and dynamic environment dedicated to higher education and research. Situated in the eastern part of Lugano, it offers innovative and functional architecture, modern classrooms, equipped laboratories, libraries, and green spaces. It is an ideal place for study and research, fostering collaboration and student well-being.

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Where to find us

The lessons of the Master in Philosophy take place in presence in the West Campus of the Università della Svizzera italiana. The exact address is via Buffi 13, Lugano (Switzerland).

Parking is very limited in the area, so we recommend using public transportation.

You can reach the university from Lugano train station in 8 minutes by taking bus number 6 in the direction of Cornaredo and getting off at the "Università" stop (you can find the bus schedule here).

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