In the Department of Social and Political Sciences, Philosophy, and Anthropology we offer of a variety of research degrees, from MA by Research, to MPhil, to PhD. Please see here for an explanation of different types of degree available.
In our Department you have the opportunity to undertake advanced postgraduate research in a friendly, interdisciplinary, collaborative, and highly productive community. We have a range of interests that cut across themes in sociology (including criminology), philosophy, anthropology and anthrozoology. We support postgraduate students working across a diverse range of topics in these disciplines and at their boundaries. Our department includes Egenis, the Centre for the Study of Life Sciences, an internationally recognised research centre for philosophical and social studies of the life sciences.
Research overview
Some examples of our areas and topics of study are listed below. Visit our research pages and staff profiles for more information about individual research interests.
Anthrozoology
Human-Animal Interaction
Animal Welfare
Animals as Pets
Working Animals
Animal Ethics
Animal Training
Ecotourism
Trans-species communication
Animals in Religious Belief
Veterinary Care
To learn more about modules, assessment methods, facilities and our staff research expertise please visit our course page.
Ways to study this course
Campuses
University of Exeter - Streatham Campus
Study options
PhD • Full-time • 4 Years
MPhil • Full-time • 3 Years
Start dates
09/2026
01/2027
How to apply
Fees and funding
Choose a specific option to see funding information.
We invest heavily in scholarships for talented prospective Masters students. This is in addition to the UK Government’s Postgraduate Loan Scheme. For information on how you can fund your postgraduate degree at the University of Exeter, please visit our course page.