Admission Requirements Online Program

In addition to qualifying for admission to UIS, priority consideration will be given to applicants with a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or better on a 4.0 scale, and those with prior course work in philosophy from an accredited college or university. Note that when circumstances justify it, students with lower GPAs may be accepted into the program.

Applicants who meet these formal qualifications will be in the strongest position to be accepted by the department. However, students wishing to be evaluated on characteristics and accomplishments beyond the grade point average, or previous course work in philosophy, should address the diverse ways they might contribute to the UIS Philosophy Department in their statement of purpose (see below) and present reasons why they believe they would be successful as a philosophy major. Consideration will be given to students with backgrounds and strong abilities in philosophy as documented by writing samples, statements of purpose, and letters of recommendation.

Applicants must submit the following materials to the Philosophy Department to be formally accepted into the Philosophy major:

1. A brief sample of the student’s writing, preferably on a philosophical topic.

2. A brief statement of purpose (300 to 500 words) presenting the student’s reasons for selecting the online philosophy major at UIS.

In addition, applicants may submit the following materials:

1. One to three reference letters from individuals who can attest to the student’s ability for successful academic study.
2. Any additional documentation the applicant feels will strengthen his or her application.

While there are no firm application deadlines, prospective students should bear in mind that it takes time to process an application. Consequently, students should apply well in advance of the semester in which they wish to enroll.