Program Overview

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MPhil Philosophy

The MPhil in Philosophy at the University of Essex is a postgraduate research course that offers supervision in a wide range of fields, including continental philosophy, history of philosophy, social and political philosophy, and medical humanities.

Overview

• Course: Philosophy
• Start date: October 2026
• Study mode: Full-time, Part-time
• Duration: 2 - 3 years
• Location: Colchester Campus
• Based in: School of Philosophical, Historical, and Interdisciplinary Studies

The University of Essex has an established international reputation and a strong tradition of postgraduate education, particularly in the specialist area of continental philosophy and the middle-ground between continental and analytic philosophy. Moral and political philosophy is another notable area of research concentration. The university is also very active in the emerging field of medical humanities.

Our Expert Staff

PGR students are allocated a supervisor whose role is to guide the student through the different stages of the research degree. In some cases, students may have joint supervision by two members of staff. The staff are open-minded and enthusiastic, known for their unique combination of Anglo-American and European philosophy, and as a leading centre for critical theory, phenomenology, German idealism, and medical humanities.

Specialist Facilities

By studying in the School of Philosophical, Historical, and Interdisciplinary Studies, students will have access to a range of outstanding facilities to aid their learning and research. This includes a large well-equipped room for use by research students, with desks, computers, a sprinter/fax machine, and comfortable seating. There are also two additional rooms with desks and chairs for the use of research students.

Your Future

Many graduates have progressed successfully to further research and an academic career. Philosophers with a PhD from Essex now teach at many UK universities and numerous institutions abroad. Other Philosophy graduates have gone into careers in law, the media, local administration, HM Revenue and Customs, and top jobs in the Civil Service.

Entry Requirements

UK Entry Requirements

• A 2:1 or above (or international equivalent) is required.
• Demonstrated capacity to conduct independent research and a well-developed research proposal are essential.
• Normally, an interview/Skype interview is required for acceptance, and acceptance is subject to research expertise in the department.

International & EU Entry Requirements

• A wide range of qualifications from applicants studying in the EU and other countries are accepted.
• For specific requirements, it is recommended to get in touch with the admissions team.

English Language Requirements

• If English is not the first language, IELTS 7.0 overall, or equivalent, with a minimum score of 5.5 in all other components is required.

Structure

Course Structure

A research degree doesn't have a taught structure, giving students the chance to investigate their chosen topic in real depth and reach a profound understanding. This allows for the development of new high-level skills, enhancement of professional development, and the building of new networks.

Assessment

The MPhil is a structured programme of advanced study and research.

Dissertation

• The thesis should be no longer than 50,000 words.
• Twice a year, supervisory board meetings provide formal opportunities to discuss progress and agree on immediate and future plans for the work.

Fees and Funding

Home/UK Fee

• ｣5,238 per year
• Fees will increase for each academic year of study.

International Fee

• ｣20,625 per year
• Fees will increase for each academic year of study.

Scholarships and Financial Support

There may be scholarships, bursaries, or discounts available to help with the cost of the course.

What's Next

Open Days

The university holds Open Days for all applicants throughout the year, which are a great way to find out more about studying at Essex.

Applying

• Applications can be made online.
• Before applying, it is recommended to check the information about necessary documents required as part of the application.
• A preliminary enquiry directly to a potential supervisor or the Graduate Administrator within the chosen Department or School is encouraged.

Related Courses

• PhD Philosophy
• MA (by Dissertation) Philosophy

These courses offer alternative pathways for those interested in pursuing philosophical studies at different levels or with different focuses.