Philosophy

BA (Hons) Philosophy is all about asking the big questions: who are we, how do we think, what do we value, and how can we make sense of the past, present and future? With us, you’ll explore fundamental issues about consciousness, free will, gender, morality, politics, sustainability and culture, learning how to think deeply and critically about the world.

You’ll study influential thinkers from ancient philosophers to modern voices, discovering how their ideas still shape our lives today. Along the way, you’ll develop your own intellectual voice and learn how to build strong arguments, analyse complex ideas and express your thinking with confidence – all skills that employers are looking for.

As part of a lively and internationally recognised community of philosophers, you’ll learn from experts who bring cutting-edge research straight into the classroom. You may even get the chance to study abroad or take a placement year, gaining real-world experience as you explore the questions that matter most to you.

This course is perfect if you're curious, openminded, and excited by the idea of tackling life’s biggest challenges. Get ready to discover how philosophy can help you shape positive change in the world.

This course has a foundation year available.

Features and benefits

• Learn from experts: Our academics are specialists in their fields, producing cutting-edge research across a broad range of philosophical subjects.

• Wide range of modules: From your second year, you'll choose from a diverse range of option modules, allowing you to pursue your own interests, including Feminist Ethics and Gender, Race and Sexuality.

• Inclusive curriculum: We offer an inclusive, interdisciplinary curriculum that engages with philosophy thought outside of mainstream Western philosophy and centres the principles of equity, diversity and inclusivity.

• Assessments: We'll encourage you to think deeply, critically and creatively through a variety of assessment methods including learning diaries, portfolios, presentations and short essays.

• Employability: We place a strong emphasis on key employability skills, ensuring you have the digital, communication and team-working abilities that employers value.

• The Human Sciences Research Seminar Series: A fixture at the University for 40 years and funded by the Royal Institute of Philosophy, it has hosted internationally renowned thinkers, and today offers you the chance to hear from leading philosophers at the forefront of their specialisms.

• Dedicated support: We believe that a first-class learning experience starts with an open, inclusive, welcoming and supportive pedagogical environment. Our staff provide rigorous and enjoyable research-led teaching to intellectually stimulate, challenge and inspire.

• Placement or study abroad flexibility: You will have the opportunity to spend your third year studying abroad or boost your career prospects with a placement in industry.