Program Overview

Postgraduate Certificate in Philosophy

The Postgraduate Certificate in Philosophy is a part-time course in philosophy aimed at those with a degree in the arts, humanities and social or natural sciences. Taught over a series of 2-day teaching weekends and supporting one-to-one supervisions, the course explores a range of philosophical topics, from ancient philosophy to existentialism.

Course Overview

The course is designed for anyone with an interest in philosophy, particularly those who have completed Professional and Continuing Educations Advanced Diploma (level 6) courses, or another level 6 qualification. It will appeal to students interested in the history of philosophy, metaphysics, philosophy of language, existentialism, and continental philosophy.

Aims of the Programme

The Postgraduate Certificate in Philosophy aims to:

• provide students with specialist knowledge and understanding of philosophical ideas and concepts at the frontiers of philosophical debate and research
• enable students to acquire and develop the skills necessary to conduct critical analysis and evaluation at the highest levels
• develop the students ability to analyse and evaluate different methods for conducting independent and collaborative research

Entry Requirements

• Typically, a good UK undergraduate degree, such as a 2.1, or international equivalent in the arts, humanities and social or natural sciences
• English language requirements: a good level of fluency, with proof of sufficient fluency before admission if English is not the first language

Visa Information

International students are welcome to apply. If coming from overseas, students would attend the in-person teaching sessions for this course with visitor immigration permission.

Teaching and Assessment

Teaching and learning on the course is delivered through a combination of presentations by the tutor, interactive and participative methods of teaching and learning, and through reading and assignments to be undertaken by students outside of the teaching sessions. The course will be supported by the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).

Course Structure

The Postgraduate Certificate is divided into 3 units, each taught via a 2-day teaching block and an individual supervision. The units are:

• Unit 1: Topics in Ancient Philosophy - Reason and the Self
• Unit 2: Topics in Modern Philosophy - Kant on Reason and Intuition
• Unit 3: Topics in Existentialism - Kierkegaards Existential Thought

Assessment

Students will be required to submit summative assignments totalling 11,500 to 14,500 words across the course.

Fees and Funding

• The total fees for this course are:
  • Home: Ł5,406
  • Overseas: Ł10,812
• Additional costs may include an application fee of Ł85 and travel, accommodation, and subsistence costs for residential teaching sessions.

How to Apply

Applications are considered on a 'gathered field' basis, with a deadline of 28 May 2026. To apply, students will need to provide:

• An up-to-date CV
• A sample of writing (around 500 words)
• Details of degree-level courses completed or being studied
• Contact details for 2 referees

Student Support

The university is committed to supporting students in their learning journey, offering a variety of support opportunities to meet individual needs.