Program Overview

Program Overview

The problem of consciousness: Philosophical and empirical aspects is a course offered by Umeå University, focusing on the philosophy of mind and the subjective aspects of consciousness.

Course Description

This course is a specialisation in the philosophy of mind, concentrating on one aspect of our mental lives, namely consciousness, by which we here understand the "subjective" aspects of the mind, or "what it is like" to (say) feel pain or see colours. One topic that we consider is the ontological status of consciousness, and especially its relation to the brain. For example, can consciousness be identified with some brain process, or is the relation between consciousness and the brain of some other kind? Another topic concerns our epistemic access to consciousness: To what extent can we come to know and understand consciousness and its relation to the brain? The course covers both philosophical and empirical contributions to these issues.

Course Details

• Type: Course, second cycle
• Study pace: Half speed
• Study location: Umeå
• Type of studies: On campus
• Number of credits: 7.5 credits
• Teaching hours: Daytime
• Language: English

Eligibility

• 90 ECTS credits in anthropology, computer science, linguistics, neuro science, philosophy, psychology or some other subject relevant to cognitive science, or similar.
• Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English B/6.
• Where the language of instruction is Swedish, applicants must prove proficiency in Swedish to the level required for basic eligibility for higher studies.

Selection

• Academic credits

Application and Tuition Fees

• Application fee: SEK 900
• Tuition fee, first instalment: SEK 12,075
• Total fee: SEK 12,075

Application Periods

• International admissions round: Apply by 15 January 2026
• Second admissions round for EU/EEA citizens: Closed for application

Course Schedule

• Starts: 3 November 2025
• Ends: 18 January 2026
• Starts (next year): 2 November 2026
• Ends (next year): 17 January 2027

Research Areas

The course covers both philosophical and empirical contributions to the issues of consciousness, including its ontological status and epistemic access.

University Information

Umeå University is a vibrant academic community where high-quality education meets groundbreaking research in science, technology, humanities, and the arts. The university is certified as a Healthy Campus, with many initiatives that promote health and well-being. It is also ranked #1 globally in the main categories of Living, Support, and Overall Satisfaction for international students.