Master
German
Social Sciences
Philosophy
Master of Arts (M.A.)
About the Program
The Master's program in Philosophy at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz focuses on the fundamental problems of human self-understanding and worldview. Students examine the historical development of thought and knowledge, the position of humans in the universe, the norms and conditions of human action and coexistence, and the form of human existence as both physical and spiritual beings. The program deepens competencies from the Bachelor's degree including problem awareness, proficiency in subject-specific methods, and the ability to discuss in writing and orally. Essential skills developed include handling complex texts and issues, abstract thinking, and critical reflection of complex thoughts. The program is divided into two main areas: History of Philosophy and Systematic Philosophy. Students can specialize in areas such as Ancient Philosophy, Medieval Philosophy, Modern Philosophy, Theoretical Philosophy, Philosophy of Science, or Practical Philosophy.
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The Master's program in Philosophy at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz focuses on the fundamental problems of human self-understanding and worldview. Students examine the historical development of thought and knowledge, the position of humans in the universe, the norms and conditions of human action and coexistence, and the form of human existence as both physical and spiritual beings. The program deepens competencies from the Bachelor's degree including problem awareness, proficiency in subject-specific methods, and the ability to discuss in writing and orally. Essential skills developed include handling complex texts and issues, abstract thinking, and critical reflection of complex thoughts. The program is divided into two main areas: History of Philosophy and Systematic Philosophy. Students can specialize in areas such as Ancient Philosophy, Medieval Philosophy, Modern Philosophy, Theoretical Philosophy, Philosophy of Science, or Practical Philosophy.
General Requirements
Specific requirements for this program are not in our database yet. The following are typical for this degree and language in Germany — always verify the exact requirements on the program's official page.
Academic qualification
A recognised Bachelor's degree in a related field; some programs require a minimum grade or specific prerequisites.
Language
German at C1 level (DSH-2, TestDaF TDN 4, Goethe-Zertifikat C1, or telc C1 Hochschule).
Typical documents
- Recognised diploma and transcript (certified translations)
- Language certificate
- Passport and passport photo
- Tabular CV (Lebenslauf)
- Letter of motivation (for many programs)
- Application via uni-assist / VPD (for most international applicants)
Which Professions Does This Program Open Up?
Related profession searches from Bundesagentur für Arbeit (BERUFENET) data:
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Philosophy
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How do I apply to Philosophy at Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz?
Most international applicants apply via uni-assist (document verification + APS for some countries). Prepare your secondary/Bachelor diploma, transcripts, language certificate (DSH/TestDaF or IELTS/TOEFL), motivation letter and CV. Non-EU students also need a Sperrkonto (~11,904 EUR/year) for the visa.
- Check requirements — Verify your degree is recognised + meet language/grade thresholds.
- Get language certificate — TestDaF / DSH for German programmes, IELTS / TOEFL for English.
- Submit via uni-assist (non-EU) — Document review + APS if your country requires it (China, India, Pakistan, Vietnam, etc.).
- Apply directly or via uni portal — Some universities accept direct applications — check the official programme page.
- Open Sperrkonto + apply for visa — After admission, deposit 11,904 EUR, get health insurance, book embassy appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about Philosophy at Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz
Is Philosophy at Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz taught in German or English? ▼
This Master programme is taught in German. Make sure to check the language requirements (e.g. TestDaF, DSH, IELTS or TOEFL) before applying.
How much does the Philosophy programme cost? ▼
No tuition fee (only semester contribution). International students should also budget around 800–1000 EUR/month for living costs in Germany.
What are the admission requirements for Philosophy at Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz? ▼
Typical requirements include: a recognised secondary/undergraduate degree, proof of language proficiency (German), and (for non-EU applicants) a uni-assist application plus financial proof (Sperrkonto ~11.904 EUR/year).
When is the application deadline? ▼
Application deadlines vary: winter semester usually closes on 15 July, summer semester on 15 January. Always confirm the exact deadline on the official university website.
Can I work in Germany while studying Philosophy? ▼
Yes. International students may work up to 140 full days / 280 half days per year without additional permission. After graduation you can apply for an 18-month job-seeker permit.
How do I apply to Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz — directly or via uni-assist? ▼
Most German universities accept international applications through uni-assist for document verification. Some unis accept direct applications — check the programme page on the official site.