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Degrees

The Philosophy program offers a Master of Arts degree and a Doctoral degree.

Important: Transcripts and letters of recommendation are required of all applicants. 

See the test score requirements for this program.

  • ​4,000 – 6,000 words. Please include your name in the footer of each page of your writing sample.
  • Please describe your plans for graduate study or research (including who and what) and for your future occupation or profession. Recommended length is 500 – 1,000 words.
  • Required of all applicants. This statement will be used in conjunction with your application for graduate admission and financial support. Note that the personal history statement should not duplicate the statement of purpose. Recommended length is a concise 1-3 pages.
  • UC Santa Cruz is interested in a diverse and inclusive graduate student population. In an essay, discuss how your personal background informs your decision to pursue a graduate degree. Include any educational, familial, cultural, economic, or social experiences, challenges, or opportunities relevant to your academic journey; how you might contribute to social or cultural diversity within your chosen field; and/or how you might serve educationally underrepresented segments of society with your degree.

View all application deadlines

Contact information for UCSC Graduate Programs

Learn more about the Philosophy M.A. and Ph.D. programs

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Last modified: Oct 27, 2025