The Faculty of Philosophy at the Collegium Augustinianum specialize in the history of philosophy, Ancient philosophy, Medieval philosophy and Existential phenomenology. The Faculty accepts theses written in English, Italian, French, Spanish, German or Dutch depending upon the competency and permission of the supervising professor. All students are required to demonstrate competency with the original language of the primary text(s) focused upon in the research area and respective thesis. The Faculty of Philosophy offers the following research degrees:
THE MASTER OF PHILOSOPHY (Ph.M.) DEGREE IN CHRISTIAN PHILOSOPHY
This Master of Philosophy degree is intended for those students who wish to continue for the doctorate at another institution, but may require development in research and writing skills. The Ph.M. degree also prepares students for canonical requirements for teaching at our seminary or other ecclesiastical institutions. The student is encouraged to choose from one of the four specializations for this degree: 1) Patristic and Medieval Studies, 2) St. Augustine and Augustinian Studies, 3) History of Philosophy, or 4) Christian Existential Philosophy.
While the Ph.M. degree generally involves a year of supervised research followed by a year dedicated to the writing of a thesis under the supervision of a professor, this degree can sometimes be completed in a one year when a student is accepted in advanced standing, (esp. when the candidate already holds an MA. degree in philosophy or a related discipline) by dispensation, or by examination. Nevertheless, generally when a thesis has been accepted by the supervisor, student is required to be examined on his or her thesis by a tribunal of professors who grade it.
THE BACHELOR OF PHILOSOPHY (Ph.B.) DEGREE IN CHRISTIAN PHILOSOPHY
The Bachelor of Philosophy degree (Ph.B.) in Philosophy is generally awarded after two years of study since most students already hold the Bachelor of Arts degree in some related field upon acceptance and matriculation. The student may choose one of the following specializations for this degree: 1) Ancient Philosophy, 2) Augustinian Studies, or 3) Christian Existential Philosophy. The student may also earn a certificate in Greek and Roman Classics or Greek or Latin, in order to further specialize their studies. The Dean may dispense the student from a year of research in recognition of advanced work or credit from a recognized college or university.
For students enrolled in the Ministry Formation Program, who are seeking the S.T.B. degree, there is a special track for the Ph.B., which prepares the student specifically for the study of theology.
For more information on the nature of our degrees, and for degree requirements, please see the section on The Research Degree. 
