Research Master of Philosophy

Which specialisations are available?

The Research Master of Philosophy is a two-year (120 ECTS) programme designed for outstanding students aiming to pursue a PhD. It provides advanced research training across a wide range of philosophical fields aligned with the Institute’s research centres, allowing students to specialize in nearly any major area, period, or figure while maintaining a broad philosophical foundation.

Upon enrollment, students choose one of the following five majors:

• Ancient, Medieval and Renaissance Philosophy
• Metaphysics and Philosophy of Culture
• Phenomenology and Continental Philosophy
• Political Philosophy and Ethics
• Analytic Philosophy

The major represents your chosen area of specialisation and comprises both coursework—such as specialised research seminars and courses—and individual research, including a Research Paper in the first year and a Research Master’s Thesis in the second.

The Research Master’s Thesis takes the form of a research article and must demonstrate your capacity to undertake original research and your readiness to pursue doctoral studies.

Why study phylosophy at KU Leuven?

The Institute of Philosophy offers comprehensive coverage of Western philosophy, encompassing both continental and analytic traditions. It hosts an international community of scholars and students, organises major conferences, and provides exceptional research resources, including the renowned Husserl Archives and one of the world’s finest philosophy libraries. Located on a beautiful, compact campus in the vibrant city of Leuven, the Institute provides an intellectually rich and supportive environment at the heart of Europe.

Accreditations and rankings

• #18 - Times Higher Education World University Ranking
• #19 - QS World University Ranking

Am I a good fit for this programme? 

• You should have the ability to deepen your understanding of a variety of philosophical themes and disciplines, while building on your existing academic skills.
• You should also be highly motivated to specialise in a particular area of philosophy and capable of conducting rigorous, independent research at an advanced academic level.

Check the official and current admission requirements

Student-exchange opportunities and abridged programme

The Institute of Philosophy has Erasmus+ exchange agreements with over 30 European universities, including those in Amsterdam, Berlin, Copenhagen, Paris, London, Dublin, Lisbon, Madrid, Rome, and Prague. 

• Student exchange programmes
• Abridged programme

The Master’s programme (120 credits, divided into two stages) comprises the following components:

• Common Seminar (4 credits) – taken in the second stage
• Research Seminars and Core Courses (64–66 credits)
  • Research Seminars – minimum 16 credits (at least 8 credits in the major area), taken across both stages
  •  Core Courses – minimum 42 credits (at least 18 credits in the major area), taken across both stages
• Independent Research in the Major Area (36 credits)
  • Research Paper (12 credits) – completed in the first stage
  •  Master’s Thesis (24 credits) – completed in the second stage
• Elective Courses (14–16 credits), chosen to ensure a total of at least 120 credits across both stages

Students proficient in Dutch may take certain courses in Dutch. However, both the Research Paper and the Master’s Thesis must be written in English. The Common Seminar and the Master’s Thesis can only be undertaken after successful completion of the Research Paper.

Your programme

The admissions process will depend on whether you've obtained your secondary education and/or previous degree(s) in the Flemish Community (Belgium) or at an academic institution outside of Flanders.

Tuition fees

The fees for any individual student are contingent upon their academic programme and the nationality of the student.  

For the most recent – and only official – information on tuition fees, check the tuition fee calculator.

Study costs

The study costs consist of the yearly tuition fee on the one hand and degree-specific costs on the other hand. Besides study costs you also need to take living and transportation expenses into account. 

• Specific study costs for this degree
• Cost of living in Belgium 

Scholarships

KU Leuven offers a variety of scholarships for qualifying students. Just as with our tuition fees, these scholarships may be contingent on a student’s academic programme or nationality, so be sure to thoroughly check eligibility requirements before applying.

What are the career prospects for graduates of this programme?

Most of our graduates aspire to an academic career and go on to obtain PhDs in Philosophy, or at renowned universities such as Oxford, Yale, Princeton, and NYU, subsequently pursuing academic or research careers. Others apply their philosophical training in sectors including business, government, education, media, and the cultural sphere. The programme’s graduates are recognized for their analytical precision, intellectual adaptability, and capacity for critical reflection in diverse professional contexts.

Career support & alumni network

Our Student Career Center is happy to put you on the right track towards your first work experience. Services including job search coaching and preparation to help you with job interviews.  As a KU Leuven graduate, you are part of a worldwide network of over 340,000 alumni. Stay in touch with your former classmates with the exclusive alumni platform KU Leuven Connect.