Program Overview

Philosophy MA

The Philosophy MA course at the University of Leeds enables students to study the key debates, trends, and approaches in different areas of contemporary analytic philosophy while improving their skills in research and critical analysis.

Course Overview

Philosophy tackles some of the deepest and most complex questions about humanity and our place in the world. This Masters course will allow students to engage with research in various areas, including metaphysics, epistemology, philosophy of mind, language, and ethics. Students will have the opportunity to develop their skills in research and critical thinking, exploring contemporary issues and building specialist knowledge in either practical or theoretical philosophy.

Course Structure

The course is available to study full-time over 12 months or part-time over 24 months. Two core modules will introduce students to analytic methods and landmark ideas in contemporary analytic philosophy. Students will also have the opportunity to choose from a variety of optional modules, allowing them to develop their own independent project or study topics in different areas of philosophy.

Modules

• Landmarks in Analytic Philosophy (30 credits)
• Ways of Doing Analytic Philosophy (30 credits)
  • Optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)
    • Topics in the Philosophy of Physics (30 credits)
    • Philosophy Dissertation (60 credits)
    • Mind, Language, Reality (30 credits)
    • Ethics, Meta-Ethics and Political Philosophy (30 credits)
    • Aesthetics and the Philosophy of Art (30 credits)
    • Feminist Philosophy (30 credits)
    • Continental Philosophy (30 credits)
    • Philosophy of Logic and Mathematics (30 credits)
    • Kant (30 credits)
    • Philosophy of the Social Sciences (30 credits)
    • Philosophy: Extended Dissertation (90 credits)
    • Independent Study A (30 credits)
    • Independent Study B (30 credits)
    • Topics in the Philosophy of Biology (30 credits)

Learning and Teaching

Most modules are taught through a combination of lectures and seminars, where students can discuss issues with fellow students and their tutor. One-to-one supervisions are also available while working on the dissertation. Independent study is an important element of the course, allowing students to develop their skills and pursue their interests more closely.

Assessment

The course uses different forms of assessment, including essays, seminar participation, and the dissertation.

Entry Requirements

Students will need a bachelor degree with a 2:1 (hons) or equivalent qualification, preferably in a philosophy-related degree. Relevant experience, interest in philosophy, or coming from an area of expertise complementary to philosophy may also be considered.

International Students

The admissions team is experienced in considering a wide range of international qualifications. English language requirements are IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component.

Fees

• UK: Ł12,000 (Total)
• International: Ł26,500 (Total)

Scholarships and Financial Support

There may be help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Scholarships are also available to help fund the Masters course.

Career Opportunities

This course will equip students with a range of in-depth subject knowledge and high-level skills in research, analysis, interpretation, and communication. Graduates have gone into roles such as teaching, consultancy, business management, administration, accountancy, law, journalism, and the civil service, among others.

Work Placements and Industry Experience

The Global Industry Programme provides a unique opportunity for students to gain real-world industry experience, developing key professional skills and gaining invaluable insight into working in their chosen field.