Master of Arts: Philosophy of History / Political Theory
Dr. William Dean, Director
Olivet Nazarene University’s Master of Arts degrees in philosophy of history and political theory are specifically designed to enhance understanding of the engines of change for professionals involved in a variety of careers, including education, government, religion, faith-based humanitarian work, and community development.
This unique innovative approach to graduate education is based on the fact that ideas have real consequences. The formative ideas of Western Civilization were born in the struggle of societies to come to terms with questions of ultimate values, and the successive expressions of those values have molded the political, social, and religious structures of our civilization. These worldview issues are the bedrock of meaning as well as the fundamental engines of change.
Unlike traditional Master of Arts programs in history and political science, these degree programs do not focus on a specific period of history or intellectual movement. Rather, they explore a single theme across the succession of civilizations that make up our own story. The last two courses address the American legacy from our Western tradition, and America’s place in the modern world in this larger context.
Admission requirements:
In order to be admitted to these programs, you need:
- An undergraduate grade point average of at least 3.0;
- To request that transcripts from all your undergraduate institutions be forwarded to the Admissions Office;
- To request letters of recommendation from teachers, employers, or others who are in a position to observe your work;
- A 1000-word example of your written work, which can include a personal statement, an essay submitted for undergraduate credit, or a report prepared for an employer;
- To submit a non-refundable application fee of $50.00.
After you are admitted, but before you can enroll in classes, you must complete arrangements for payment or financial aid and submit a $200 registration fee.
Online Hybrid Program Format:
The Master of Arts degrees in philosophy of History and political theory are taught in a hybrid format that maximizes the flexibility of online education with the dynamics of face-to-face classroom participation. At the beginning of the program, students will gather on campus for orientation and introductory lectures and discussions. Then they will return to campus for a two-day conference every four months through the program. Between the conferences, course work will be completed entirely online. Each campus conference is an integral part of the courses before and after the conference, and therefore are not optional.