Philosophy

If you're interested in exploring views, ideas, theories, practices and behaviours, BA (Hons) Philosophy is the course for you. Socrates, one of the most famous philosophers of all times, said "I cannot teach anybody anything. I can only make them think.": that is a core strength of philosophical studies. In developing your ability to think well, you will be able to spot errors in reasoning, analyse complex issues and arguments, build a strong case and make a point with clarity and precision.

Philosophy seeks to understand, and particularly to question, ideas concerning the nature of reality, value and experience that play a pervasive role in understanding the world and ourselves. The philosophy discipline focuses on problematic concepts, such as existence, reason and truth, which occur in every sphere of human enquiry, but more specifically on problematic concepts that belong to particular areas of thought and practice, such as politics, economics, religion, science and ethics.

Following the Covid crisis and its aftermath, we've become more accustomed to seeing political decision-makers flanked by scientists. The Philosophy of Science is interested in analysing why science seems to be so successful in explaining reality. With scientists playing an ever-increasing role in decision-making processes at all levels, we have to ask: are scientists the new priests of society?

Throughout the course you will apply this type of analytical and critical thinking to a range of 21st century issues such as: Is humanity headed in the right or wrong direction? What is the best way for a person to attain happiness? Will religion ever become obsolete? What is the future of artificial intelligence? Is there a meaning to life and, if so, what is it?

Please see our FAQ sheet on our website for further information on this course.

Please note this course is delivered entirely online and available to study from anywhere in the world. Applicants outwith Scotland including International, should apply to the UHI HTC study location.

Module outline

Year 1 - CertHE

You will study the following core modules:

• Logic and philosophy

• Problems in philosophy

• Thinking and writing for study, work and life

You will also choose three further option modules from other humanities and social science subjects.

Year 2 - DipHE

You will study the following core modules:

• Anthropology of religion

• Knowledge: a philosophical analysis

• Moral philosophy

You will also choose three further option modules from other humanities and social science subjects.

Year 3 - BA

Modules at this level might include:

• Continental philosophy (S2)

• Philosophy of religion (S1)

• Philosophy of science (S2)

• Research project (SC)

In addition to these philosophy modules, you will also be able to choose an option module from our range of humanity subjects.

Year 4 - BA (Hons)

You will complete a philosophy dissertation, which is a double-credit module that runs across both semesters.

You will also select four modules which include:

• Existential philosophy and literature (S2)

• For freedom alone: Scotland and philosophy (S1)

• Research in theology and philosophy (SC) (double-credit module)

This outline reflects the modules as currently delivered and is subject to change.

For more information on what you’ll study on your degree, as well as our range of other degree options, please explore our Humanities subject area page on our website.