Master of Arts in Philosophy (MAPhilo)

In accordance with the 2014-2018 Strategic Plan of the Royal Government of Cambodia and with the aim of fulfilling the need to develop human resources in Cambodia’s education sector, a Master of Arts in Philosophy at the Royal University of Phnom Penh is herein proposed.

“Philosophy” as a term means the love of wisdom.  Philosophy as an area of study focuses on the fundamental nature of reality. The goal is to uncover the truth about some of the most fundamental concepts of human existence, e.g., knowledge, the mind, causality, the good.  Philosophical pursuits include examining the ideas of the most influential thinkers throughout time and moving these ideas forward through philosophical research.  Students who pursue a Master of Arts in Philosophy will be engaged in just this enterprise.  Their development will contribute to the overall enrichment of Cambodia’s intellectual environment and enable them to become the next generation of educators and leaders in civil society who are actively engaged in the development of Cambodia.

Even though philosophy is highly beneficial to society, there is not yet investment in the study of philosophy at the post-graduate level.  In fact, there is currently no program in Cambodia that offers graduate-level study in philosophy.  In order to develop philosophical knowledge and skills in critical thinking required for the development of students, teachers, and future leaders in civil society, it is proposed that a Master in Arts in Philosophy be created at the Royal University of Phnom Penh.

1. Background

The Philosophy Department was established in 1981, with the objective of developing students understanding of political science and human values, which are necessary for building a society with firm foundations. The study of philosophy and political science promotes critical thinking and reasoning skills in students, who go on to provide human resources critical for the country's development.
Since 1996, the degree of Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy has benefited from the extensive support of New Humanity, an Italian NGO. Over the years, members of the department have received extensive training from various international institutions including New Humanity and the Catholic University of Milan (Italy), Hong Kong University (Hong Kong), Sydney University (Australia), and Ateneo de Manila University (Philippines). In addition, the department receives supports from Maryknoll to generate this MA program for strengthening potentiality and abilities of students, government officers etc. This is one of the important parts of activities to develop Cambodia.

2. Vision

Create high-performing, motivated educators and leaders, in governmental, civil society, and private sectors, who are actively engaged in the development of Cambodia and committed to reflective, transformative and responsible global citizenship.

3. Mission

The Mission of the Philosophy Master of Arts program at the Royal University of Phnom Penh is:

(1)   Develop in students the philosophical knowledge, critical thinking skills, ethical values, and intellectual disposition to be transformational educators and leaders with a clear vision, intellectual creativity, and ethical influence;

(2)   Strengthen students’ ability to recognize various problems in human life and society, and cultivate the skills to find appropriate means for solving those problems;

(3)   Demonstrate high professional career development for successful individual in all types of professions;

(4)   Build the background and skills required to pursue a doctoral degree abroad.

4. Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs)

Upon a successful completion, a graduate of this program will be able to:

Knowledge

·       Define philosophical foundations combined with further honing of students’ analytical thinking skills;

·       Write philosophical research studies/journal;

·       Outline incorporates the significant theories and the field’s historical development across a number of branches of philosophy.

Cognitive Skills

·    Demonstrate variability of theoretical knowledge and to reflect critically on theory and professional practice or scholarship;

·    Philosophize natural, social and world problems base on intellectual standing;

·    Investigate, analyze and synthesis complex information, problems, concepts and theories and to apply established theories to different bodies of knowledge or practice;

·    Analyze and discuss primary philosophical texts while learning how to develop and communicate students’ own theories and ideas.

Interpersonal Skills & Responsibility

·       Justify philosophical knowledges base on philosophical and ethical methodologies with strong liability.

·       Creative and initiate to new situations in professional practice and/or for further learning.

Communication, Information Technology, Numerical

·       Appraise research papers with scientific methodologies and evidence-based argument. 

Psychomotor

·       Employ & diagram critical thinking and logical thinking for variety of practices or learnings. 

5. Program Educational Objectives (PEOs)

Within two to three years of graduation, MAPhilo graduates are expected to:

PEO 1

Become recognized professionals, educators, researchers, or leaders who apply philosophical thinking and ethical reasoning in their work and communities.

PEO 2

Contribute to intellectual discourse, public debate, and policy discussions through critical analysis and informed scholarship.

PEO 3

Promote ethical awareness, cultural understanding, and social responsibility in professional and civic life.

PEO 4

Engage in lifelong learning and continued scholarly inquiry through research, publication, and professional development.

6. Course Descriptions

The Master of Arts in Philosophy (MAPhilo) is a two-year graduate program comprising a total of 45 credits, designed to provide students with a strong foundation in philosophical inquiry, critical thinking, research methodology, and interdisciplinary scholarship. The curriculum is structured progressively across four semesters, allowing students to develop both theoretical knowledge and practical research competencies. During the first year, students are introduced to major philosophical traditions and foundational concepts through courses such as Asian Philosophies and Buddhist Philosophy, Epistemology and Metaphysics: East and West, Research Methodology, and Critical Thinking, Logic, and Reasoning. The second semester builds on this foundation by exploring contemporary philosophical issues, including Philosophy of Science and Technology in Practice, Khmer Philosophy: Texts and Traditions, Philosophy in Management and Leadership, and Sustainable Human Resource and Talent Management.

In the second year, students broaden their intellectual perspectives through interdisciplinary courses such as Applied Ethics and Globalization, Academic Writing and Publication, and Seminar on Economic Development and Social Change. These courses strengthen students' ability to engage with complex social, ethical, and policy issues while developing advanced academic communication skills. The program culminates in a 12-credit thesis component, which includes proposal development, thesis writing, and a formal thesis defense. This final research project enables students to demonstrate independent scholarly inquiry, apply philosophical theories and methodologies, and contribute original knowledge to philosophical and interdisciplinary debates. Through this balanced combination of coursework and research, the MAPhilo program prepares graduates for careers in academia, research, public policy, education, civil society, and other fields requiring advanced analytical and ethical reasoning skills.

Strategy

Graduates of the M.A. program in philosophy at RUPP will:

(1)   Understand and analyze fundamental philosophical questions, especially those which have shaped the Cambodian idea landscape, and

(2)   Compare responses to those questions across Eastern and Western philosophical traditions;

(3)   Evaluate the philosophical claims of recognized philosophers and

(4)   Articulate and defend their own views for academic and professional career

(5)   Comprehend the major theories of moral philosophy and hone ability to apply them to real-life situations;

(6)   Develop advanced  research skills for local, international conference and professional careers;

(7)   Write an original, high-quality philosophy thesis and expose to local and international publication;

(8)   Intergrade knowledge learned lead for successful professional development; 

(9)   Improve English language competency which includes

·       developing ability to read and understand primary texts inaspects of philosophy;

·       strengthening skills in philosophical essay writing, able to use critical and professional writing within purposes;

·       improving speaking skills and confidence through presentations, debates, and other activities;

·       increasing breadth of knowledge of aspects of philosophical terminology in English.

Eligible Applicants

• Hold a Bachelor's degree from a recognized university in philosophy, social sciences, humanities, education, law, political science, religious studies, or related disciplines.
• Applicants from other academic backgrounds may be considered subject to faculty review and completion of prerequisite requirements if necessary.
• Demonstrate English language proficiency at an intermediate level or higher.
• Individuals working in education, public administration, civil society organizations, research institutions, religious organizations, media, and related sectors are encouraged to apply.
• Applicants with a strong interest in philosophy, ethics, critical thinking, and intellectual inquiry are welcome.

Application Process

• Complete the program application form.
• Submit official undergraduate transcript and degree certificate.
• Provide two letters of recommendation.
• Submit a curriculum vitae (CV) and statement of purpose outlining academic interests and motivation for pursuing graduate studies in philosophy.
• Demonstrate English language proficiency through a placement test or recognized English qualification.
• Attend an admission interview if required by the Faculty.

7. Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Master of Arts in Philosophy program will possess advanced analytical, communication, and research skills that are highly transferable across a wide range of professional fields. The program prepares graduates for careers that require critical thinking, ethical judgment, and intellectual leadership.

Potential career paths include:

Academic and Research Careers

• University Lecturer
• Researcher
• Academic Writer
• Curriculum Developer
• Education Specialist

Public and Policy Sectors

• Policy Analyst
• Government Advisor
• Public Administration Specialist
• Legislative Research Officer

Civil Society and Development Organizations

• Program Manager
• Advocacy and Human Rights Officer
• Community Development Specialist
• Social Research Consultant

Media and Communication

• Journalist
• Editor
• Public Intellectual
• Communication Specialist

Professional and Corporate Fields

• Ethics and Compliance Officer
• Leadership Development Specialist
• Corporate Social Responsibility Advisor
• Organizational Development Consultant

The program also provides an excellent foundation for doctoral studies in philosophy, social sciences, political theory, cultural studies, religious studies, and related disciplines.