philosophy phd in uk

DPhil in Philosophy

• Entry requirements
• Funding and Costs

College preference

• How to Apply

About the course

The Doctor of Philosophy (DPhil) in Philosophy is a three- to four-year full-time research programme whereby you undertake a doctoral level research project under the guidance of your supervisor(s). This course is not available in part-time mode of study and is not offered via distance learning.

The primary aim of the faculty’s DPhil in Philosophy is to prepare you for an academic career in philosophy. Each year, the Faculty of Philosophy welcomes students from a range of courses who have already completed substantial graduate work in philosophy. Typically, students who are successfully admitted to the DPhil course have already completed study that is equivalent or nearly equivalent to that required for Oxford’s BPhil in Philosophy course. The faculty’s Graduate Studies Committee recommends progression from Oxford's BPhil in Philosophy to the DPhil course, considering the BPhil offers the opportunity to study a wide range of philosophical topics over two years as well as to focus on a narrower field of research interest (unlike most one-year masters in a specialised subject, as offered elsewhere).

Students may also progress from the faculty's specialised MSt programmes - the MSt in Philosophy of Physics , the MSt in Ancient Philosophy and the MSt in Practical Ethics .

As part of your doctoral research you will produce a substantial 75,000-word thesis. Students proceeding to the DPhil programme via the BPhil will normally write a DPhil thesis which is an expansion of their BPhil thesis and may be able to incorporate the full contents of their 30,000-word BPhil thesis into the 75,000-word DPhil thesis. However, this is not a formal requirement; sometimes the BPhil thesis topic is not suitable for expansion into a DPhil thesis, or you may wish to write your DPhil thesis on a different topic.

You are not required to attend any taught graduate classes as part of your DPhil degree, but you are encouraged to participate in lectures, classes, seminars and other educational opportunities offered throughout the university as relevant to your topic of study. The course has no fieldwork, industrial placement or year abroad element, but you may decide to attend conferences, workshops or research training elsewhere.

You may attend any graduate or undergraduate classes, seminars and lectures in and outside of the Faculty of Philosophy which are of interest to you, provided that those classes, seminars and lectures are open to you.

Each term, many graduate classes and research seminars are organised by faculty members in which graduate students are full and important participants.

Graduates are encouraged to organise their own seminars and reading groups, and they also run two societies: one invites distinguished speakers from the UK and around the world, while the other gives graduates the opportunity to present papers to a graduate audience.

Each year there is an Oxford Graduate Philosophy Conference, in which most graduate philosophy students participate in some way.

The Masters of Letters (MLitt) in Philosophy is awarded on the basis of a thesis of maximum 50,000 words. In practice, applicants are admitted for the MLitt only in exceptional cases, and few students submit a thesis for the MLitt. The MLitt is more often an exit award for DPhil students who fail or withdraw from the DPhil degree but meet the requirements for the MLitt.

Course Outcomes

As a DPhil student, you will research, summarise, present and defend an argument with some of the best scholars in their subject, under the direction of (an) experienced researcher(s), and will extend your skills and experiences.

During the DPhil you will learn new or hone existing intellectual, practical and transferable skills, as follows:

• analyse and clarify an abstract question, grasp and critically compare different approaches to answering it, and develop an approach of your own
• put complex arguments together for and against a position and take them apart
• interpret difficult historical texts produced within a historical context
• construct extensive pieces of writing that provide a clear overview of a subject and a sustained independent argument about it, presented in a lucid, objective and scholarly manner
• demonstrate excellent oral presentation
• have effective time organisation (since you must produce extensive pieces of written work at regular intervals and to tight deadlines)
• sustain intensive work to a deadline over an extended period
• make effective use of libraries, information technology and other sources of information

Supervision

The allocation of graduate supervision for this course is the responsibility of the Faculty of Philosophy and it is not always possible to accommodate the preferences of incoming graduate students to work with a particular member of staff. Under exceptional circumstances a supervisor may be found outside the Faculty of Philosophy.

You should have regular one-to-one tuition sessions with your supervisor(s). These will normally happen twice per term but in some terms, especially at the start of the degree and during the final stages of the thesis, the number of sessions may be increased.

You will normally be assigned one supervisor to start with but towards the end of your course, after you have been awarded confirmation of status, it is usual for you to receive a second, additional supervisor, to offer another view on your work as well as to provide another reference for you if required.

You will initially be enrolled as a Probationary Research Student (PRS), unless you have previously completed the BPhil course at Oxford (see below). Normally in the third term after enrolment onto the DPhil as a PRS student, you are required to complete a transfer of status from PRS to full DPhil student status. Two appointed examiners will interview you on:

• your thesis outline, which explains the intended line of argument or contribution to the subject;
• a piece of written work in the area and philosophical style of the proposed thesis which is typically, though not necessarily, a draft chapter of the thesis.

If you progressed from the MSt in Philosophy of Physics course, you are required to write a 20,000-word thesis during your year as a PRS, as your MSt does not have a thesis element.

Normally at the end of the second year after you enrolled, you will be required to apply for confirmation of your DPhil student status. This application will involve an interview by one or two appointed examiners on:

• your thesis outline, comprising both a reasoned statement of the nature of, and some detail on, the proposed thesis together with a provisional table of contents; and
• a piece of written work intended as a part of the thesis, in final or near-final draft.

If you progress from the BPhil, you will normally enter the DPhil without being required to pass a year as a PRS and as a result you will normally apply for confirmation of DPhil status in the third term after enrolment onto the DPhil and, according to the Examination Regulations at time of publication, you will only have six terms (instead of the usual nine terms) of fee liability  for your DPhil.

The doctoral work culminates in a 75,000-word thesis that is defended orally in front of two appointed examiners ( viva voce ).

Graduate destinations

The DPhil in Philosophy's primary aim is to prepare students for an academic career in philosophy. Most DPhil graduates do indeed secure academic posts, as witnessed by the faculty's placement record .

The faculty provides a  placement scheme to help students seeking jobs within philosophy. Users of the placement scheme may ask their referees to send reference letters directly to the faculty where they will be held on file and sent out to universities or other academic institutions at the student’s request. The placement scheme is normally available to alumni until they have secured a tenured post.

The faculty's Placement Officer helps job applicants with the preparation of their CVs, provides advice about the presentation of material in an application dossier, and arranges practice interviews. The Placement Officer also holds a yearly introductory placement seminar, compulsory to those wishing to make use of the placement scheme. Also, students are invited to give talks based on material they propose to use in their writing samples or job talks, with an opportunity for comment and discussion. 

The faculty also runs an email mailing list for members of the placement scheme, which will be used to pass on job tips and news of vacancies.

The faculty runs a teaching scheme, lecturing scheme and a Graduate Teaching Register with the aim of providing teaching experience for those DPhil students who intend to pursue an academic career. In the case of the teaching scheme and Graduate Teaching Register, you will do a certain amount of teaching and marking under the guidance of a college fellow. If you are accepted into the lecturing scheme, you will be allowed to give an undergraduate lecture course of your own choice and design, consisting of four one-hour lectures.

Changes to this course and your supervision

The University will seek to deliver this course in accordance with the description set out in this course page. However, there may be situations in which it is desirable or necessary for the University to make changes in course provision, either before or after registration. The safety of students, staff and visitors is paramount and major changes to delivery or services may have to be made in circumstances of a pandemic, epidemic or local health emergency. In addition, in certain circumstances, for example due to visa difficulties or because the health needs of students cannot be met, it may be necessary to make adjustments to course requirements for international study.

Where possible your academic supervisor will not change for the duration of your course. However, it may be necessary to assign a new academic supervisor during the course of study or before registration for reasons which might include illness, sabbatical leave, parental leave or change in employment.

For further information please see our page on changes to courses and the provisions of the student contract regarding changes to courses.

Entry requirements for entry in 2024-25

Proven and potential academic excellence.

The requirements described below are specific to this course and apply only in the year of entry that is shown. You can use our interactive tool to help you  evaluate whether your application is likely to be competitive .

Please be aware that any studentships that are linked to this course may have different or additional requirements and you should read any studentship information carefully before applying. 

Degree-level qualifications

As a minimum, applicants should hold or be predicted to achieve the following UK qualifications or their equivalent:

• the BPhil in Philosophy from the University of Oxford with a distinction or near-distinction grade, or an equivalent national or international qualification;  and
• a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in philosophy or a closely-related degree which involved substantial engagement with philosophy.

However, entrance is very competitive and most successful applicants have a first-class degree or the equivalent.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.6 out of 4.0. However, most successful applicants have a GPA of 3.7 or above.

If your degree is not from the UK or another country specified above, visit our International Qualifications page for guidance on the qualifications and grades that would usually be considered to meet the University’s minimum entry requirements.

GRE General Test scores

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

Other qualifications, evidence of excellence and relevant experience

You are not required to have any publications but these may be an advantage.

Further guidance

Applicants who achieve a distinction in the BPhil in Philosophy , the MSt in Philosophy of Physics , the MSt in Ancient Philosophy or the MSt in Practical Ethics are eligible for progression to the DPhil, provided that the faculty's Graduate Studies Committee is satisfied that their proposed thesis topic and outline indicate that they can be adequately supervised by members of the Philosophy Faculty. Students who pass the BPhil in Philosophy, the MSt in Philosophy of Physics, the MSt in Ancient Philosophy or the MSt in Practical Ethics without a distinction may be admitted to the DPhil at the Committee’s discretion.

All applications are assessed by the faculty's Graduate Studies Committee at the same time, after the application deadline has passed, and offers are made on a strictly comparative basis.

Applicants should not apply with more than one distinct research proposal.

English language proficiency

This course requires proficiency in English at the University's  higher level . If your first language is not English, you may need to provide evidence that you meet this requirement. The minimum scores required to meet the University's higher level are detailed in the table below.

*Previously known as the Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English or Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) † Previously known as the Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English or Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE)

Your test must have been taken no more than two years before the start date of your course. Our Application Guide provides  further information about the English language test requirement .

Declaring extenuating circumstances

If your ability to meet the entry requirements has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic (eg you were awarded an unclassified/ungraded degree) or any other exceptional personal circumstance (eg other illness or bereavement), please refer to the guidance on extenuating circumstances in the Application Guide for information about how to declare this so that your application can be considered appropriately.

You will need to register three referees who can give an informed view of your academic ability and suitability for the course. The  How to apply  section of this page provides details of the types of reference that are required in support of your application for this course and how these will be assessed.

Supporting documents

You will be required to supply supporting documents with your application. The  How to apply  section of this page provides details of the supporting documents that are required as part of your application for this course and how these will be assessed.

Performance at interview

Interviews are not normally held as part of the admissions process.

How your application is assessed

Your application will be assessed purely on your proven and potential academic excellence and other entry requirements described under that heading.

References  and  supporting documents  submitted as part of your application, and your performance at interview (if interviews are held) will be considered as part of the assessment process. Whether or not you have secured funding will not be taken into consideration when your application is assessed.

An overview of the shortlisting and selection process is provided below. Our ' After you apply ' pages provide  more information about how applications are assessed . 

Shortlisting and selection

Students are considered for shortlisting and selected for admission without regard to age, disability, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity, race (including colour, nationality and ethnic or national origins), religion or belief (including lack of belief), sex, sexual orientation, as well as other relevant circumstances including parental or caring responsibilities or social background. However, please note the following:

• socio-economic information may be taken into account in the selection of applicants and award of scholarships for courses that are part of  the University’s pilot selection procedure  and for  scholarships aimed at under-represented groups ;
• country of ordinary residence may be taken into account in the awarding of certain scholarships; and
• protected characteristics may be taken into account during shortlisting for interview or the award of scholarships where the University has approved a positive action case under the Equality Act 2010.

Processing your data for shortlisting and selection

Information about  processing special category data for the purposes of positive action  and  using your data to assess your eligibility for funding , can be found in our Postgraduate Applicant Privacy Policy.

Admissions panels and assessors

All recommendations to admit a student involve the judgement of at least two members of the academic staff with relevant experience and expertise, and must also be approved by the Director of Graduate Studies or Admissions Committee (or equivalent within the department).

Admissions panels or committees will always include at least one member of academic staff who has undertaken appropriate training.

Other factors governing whether places can be offered

The following factors will also govern whether candidates can be offered places:

• the ability of the University to provide the appropriate supervision for your studies, as outlined under the 'Supervision' heading in the  About  section of this page;
• the ability of the University to provide appropriate support for your studies (eg through the provision of facilities, resources, teaching and/or research opportunities); and
• minimum and maximum limits to the numbers of students who may be admitted to the University's taught and research programmes.

Offer conditions for successful applications

If you receive an offer of a place at Oxford, your offer will outline any conditions that you need to satisfy and any actions you need to take, together with any associated deadlines. These may include academic conditions, such as achieving a specific final grade in your current degree course. These conditions will usually depend on your individual academic circumstances and may vary between applicants. Our ' After you apply ' pages provide more information about offers and conditions . 

In addition to any academic conditions which are set, you will also be required to meet the following requirements:

Financial Declaration

If you are offered a place, you will be required to complete a  Financial Declaration  in order to meet your financial condition of admission.

Disclosure of criminal convictions

In accordance with the University’s obligations towards students and staff, we will ask you to declare any  relevant, unspent criminal convictions  before you can take up a place at Oxford.

Oxford is one of the world’s great centres for philosophy, and is widely recognised to be amongst the best. In the most recent Philosophical Gourmet Report (2021-22) Oxford University’s Faculty of Philosophy was once again ranked top in the list of Philosophy Faculties in the United Kingdom and still ranked second in the overall ranking of philosophy faculties in the English speaking world. More than 150 professional philosophers work in the University and its colleges, between them covering a vast range of subjects within philosophy, and many are international leaders in their fields. 

Many philosophy subjects at Oxford are ranked highly in the most recent Philosophical Gourmet Report’s breakdown of programmes by speciality (2020-21) , including metaphysics, epistemology, philosophical logic, philosophy of language, applied ethics, metaethics and moral psychology, normative ethics, political philosophy, philosophy of law, philosophy of art, philosophy of physics, decision & rational choice, & game theory, ancient philosophy, 18th century early modern philosophy and 20th century continental philosophy.

The Philosophy Centre in the Radcliffe Humanities building on Woodstock Road acts as a focal point for the faculty’s activities and contains, as well as lecturing and teaching space, a graduate study room and a graduate common room. A wireless network runs throughout the Philosophy Centre.

The Philosophy Centre also contains the department's library, with over 25,000 volumes, a collection of approximately 80 periodicals, online access to many philosophical databases, and librarians trained in the specific bibliographic needs of philosophers. Many college libraries also have extensive holdings in philosophy.

The faculty runs a teaching scheme, lecturing scheme and a Graduate Teaching Register with the aim of providing teaching experience for those DPhil students who intend to pursue an academic career. In the case of the teaching scheme and Graduate Teaching Register, you will do a certain amount of teaching and marking under the guidance of a college fellow. If you are accepted into the lecturing scheme, you will be allowed to give an undergraduate lecture course of your own choice and design, consisting of four one-hour lectures. 

Over 150 Oxford academics are employed by or associated with the Faculty of Philosophy, making it one of the largest philosophy departments worldwide. 

The Faculty of Philosophy is widely recognised to be amongst the best philosophy departments in the world, ranked first in the UK and second in the English-speaking world by the most recent  Philosophical Gourmet Report  (2021-22). 

The faculty offers a wide range of graduate classes, seminars and supervisions, providing you with high-quality tuition in philosophy. This includes its flagship course, the  BPhil in Philosophy , which we believe provides the perfect graduate level training for further studies to doctoral level and is usually studied as the first two years of a four- to five-year doctoral program.

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The University expects to be able to offer over 1,000 full or partial graduate scholarships across the collegiate University in 2024-25. You will be automatically considered for the majority of Oxford scholarships , if you fulfil the eligibility criteria and submit your graduate application by the relevant December or January deadline. Most scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic merit and/or potential. 

For further details about searching for funding as a graduate student visit our dedicated Funding pages, which contain information about how to apply for Oxford scholarships requiring an additional application, details of external funding, loan schemes and other funding sources.

Please ensure that you visit individual college websites for details of any college-specific funding opportunities using the links provided on our college pages or below:

Please note that not all the colleges listed above may accept students on this course. For details of those which do, please refer to the College preference section of this page.

Further information about funding opportunities  for this course can be found on the faculty's website.

Annual fees for entry in 2024-25

Further details about fee status eligibility can be found on the fee status webpage.

Information about course fees

Course fees are payable each year, for the duration of your fee liability (your fee liability is the length of time for which you are required to pay course fees). For courses lasting longer than one year, please be aware that fees will usually increase annually. For details, please see our guidance on changes to fees and charges .

Course fees cover your teaching as well as other academic services and facilities provided to support your studies. Unless specified in the additional information section below, course fees do not cover your accommodation, residential costs or other living costs. They also don’t cover any additional costs and charges that are outlined in the additional information below.

Continuation charges

Following the period of fee liability , you may also be required to pay a University continuation charge and a college continuation charge. The University and college continuation charges are shown on the Continuation charges page.

Where can I find further information about fees?

The Fees and Funding  section of this website provides further information about course fees , including information about fee status and eligibility  and your length of fee liability .

Additional information

The Philosophy Graduate Studies Committee has a research and travel fund for graduate students to which students may apply for assistance with, for example, the costs of attending conferences or workshops. BPhil and MSt students may only apply for funding if they are presenting a paper. Probationary Research Students and DPhil students are entitled to apply for funding to attend a workshop, conference, etc, whether or not they are presenting a paper.

There are no compulsory elements of this course that entail additional costs beyond fees (or, after fee liability ends, continuation charges) and living costs. However, please note that, depending on your choice of research topic and the research required to complete it, you may incur additional expenses, such as travel expenses, research expenses, and field trips. You will need to meet these additional costs, although you may be able to apply for small grants from your department and/or college to help you cover some of these expenses.

Living costs

In addition to your course fees, you will need to ensure that you have adequate funds to support your living costs for the duration of your course.

For the 2024-25 academic year, the range of likely living costs for full-time study is between c. £1,345 and £1,955 for each month spent in Oxford. Full information, including a breakdown of likely living costs in Oxford for items such as food, accommodation and study costs, is available on our living costs page. The current economic climate and high national rate of inflation make it very hard to estimate potential changes to the cost of living over the next few years. When planning your finances for any future years of study in Oxford beyond 2024-25, it is suggested that you allow for potential increases in living expenses of around 5% each year – although this rate may vary depending on the national economic situation. UK inflationary increases will be kept under review and this page updated.

Students enrolled on this course will belong to both a department/faculty and a college. Please note that ‘college’ and ‘colleges’ refers to all 43 of the University’s colleges, including those designated as societies and permanent private halls (PPHs). 

If you apply for a place on this course you will have the option to express a preference for one of the colleges listed below, or you can ask us to find a college for you. Before deciding, we suggest that you read our brief  introduction to the college system at Oxford  and our  advice about expressing a college preference . For some courses, the department may have provided some additional advice below to help you decide.

The following colleges accept students on the DPhil in Philosophy:

• Balliol College
• Blackfriars
• Brasenose College
• Campion Hall
• Christ Church
• Corpus Christi College
• Exeter College
• Harris Manchester College
• Hertford College
• Jesus College
• Keble College
• Kellogg College
• Lady Margaret Hall
• Linacre College
• Lincoln College
• Magdalen College
• Mansfield College
• Merton College
• New College
• Oriel College
• Pembroke College
• The Queen's College
• Regent's Park College
• Reuben College
• St Anne's College
• St Catherine's College
• St Cross College
• St Edmund Hall
• St Hilda's College
• St Hugh's College
• St John's College
• St Peter's College
• Somerville College
• Trinity College
• University College
• Wadham College
• Wolfson College
• Worcester College
• Wycliffe Hall

Before you apply

Our  guide to getting started  provides general advice on how to prepare for and start your application. You can use our interactive tool to help you  evaluate whether your application is likely to be competitive .

If it's important for you to have your application considered under a particular deadline – eg under a December or January deadline in order to be considered for Oxford scholarships – we recommend that you aim to complete and submit your application at least two weeks in advance . Check the deadlines on this page and the  information about deadlines and when to apply  in our Application Guide.

Application fee waivers

An application fee of £75 is payable per course application. Application fee waivers are available for the following applicants who meet the eligibility criteria:

• applicants from low-income countries;
• refugees and displaced persons; 
• UK applicants from low-income backgrounds; and 
• applicants who applied for our Graduate Access Programmes in the past two years and met the eligibility criteria.

You are encouraged to  check whether you're eligible for an application fee waiver  before you apply.

Readmission for current Oxford graduate taught students

If you're currently studying for an Oxford graduate taught course and apply to this course with no break in your studies, you may be eligible to apply to this course as a readmission applicant. The application fee will be waived for an eligible application of this type. Check whether you're eligible to apply for readmission .

Do I need to contact anyone before I apply?

Before you apply, you should identify an academic member of staff who is willing to supervise you and has the resources to support your proposed research project. There is no need to contact prospective supervisors directly; details of academic staff, including their research interests and contact details, can be found on the department's website.

Please note that it can never be guaranteed that your proposed supervisor will be assigned to you, even if you receive prior informal approval from that supervisor.

Completing your application

You should refer to the information below when completing the application form, paying attention to the specific requirements for the supporting documents .

For this course, the application form will include questions that collect information that would usually be included in a CV/résumé. You should not upload a separate document. If a separate CV/résumé is uploaded, it will be removed from your application .

If any document does not meet the specification, including the stipulated word count, your application may be considered incomplete and not assessed by the academic department. Expand each section to show further details.

Proposed field and title of research project

Under the 'Field and title of research project' please enter your proposed field or area of research if this is known. If the department has advertised a specific research project that you would like to be considered for, please enter the project title here instead.

You should not use this field to type out a full research proposal. You will be able to upload your research supporting materials separately if they are required (as described below).

Proposed supervisor

If known, under 'Proposed supervisor name' enter the name of the academic(s) who you would like to supervise your research. Otherwise, leave this field blank.

Referees Three overall, academic preferred

Whilst you must register three referees, the department may start the assessment of your application if two of the three references are submitted by the course deadline and your application is otherwise complete. Please note that you may still be required to ensure your third referee supplies a reference for consideration.

Three academic references are usually required. However, if you have been out of education for a long time, or if you have substantial relevant working experience, then a maximum of one professional reference may replace an academic reference, provided that it speaks to your ability to undertake philosophy studies at graduate level.

Your references should support outstanding academic achievement, great intellectual ability, strong motivation, and independence of thought.

Official transcript(s)

Your transcripts should give detailed information of the individual grades received in your university-level qualifications to date. You should only upload official documents issued by your institution and any transcript not in English should be accompanied by a certified translation.

More information about the transcript requirement is available in the Application Guide.

Personal statement and research proposal: Statement of a maximum of 500 words and a proposal of a maximum of 2,000 words

Your statement of purpose/personal statement and research proposal should be submitted as a single, combined document with clear subheadings. Please ensure that the word counts for each section are clearly visible in the document.

Personal statement

You should also submit a personal statement explaining your motivation for applying for graduate study at Oxford. Your statement should focus on philosophy, rather than personal, extra-curricular achievements and interests. In your statement, you may wish to consider the following questions:

• why are you applying to this particular programme of study?
• what relevant academic and/or research experience do you have?
• which areas of study within the subject interest you?
• why would you be an excellent candidate for this course?
• how does this course fit in with your future career plans?

Your personal statement should be written in English and be a maximum of 500 words.

If possible, please ensure that the word count is clearly displayed on the document.

Your personal statement will be assessed for evidence of motivation for and understanding of the proposed area of study.

Research proposal

Your research proposal should comprise a detailed outline of your proposed research, covering areas such as the background to the research, methodology, expected results and the contribution to the field of learning. You may wish to make reference to your academic achievements, interests and aspirations and the relevance of the course to your future career development plans.

Your research proposal should be written in English and be a maximum of 2,000 words. The word count does not need to include any bibliography or brief footnotes.

Your research proposal will be assessed for:

• coherence 
• originality 
• evidence of motivation for and understanding of the proposed area of study
• ability to present a reasoned case in English
• feasibility of successfully completing the project in the time available for the course (normally three years and a maximum of four years)
• commitment to the subject
• knowledge of research techniques
• capacity for sustained and intense work
• reasoning ability
• ability to absorb new ideas, often presented abstractly, at a rapid pace.

It will be normal for your ideas subsequently to change in some ways as you investigate the evidence and develop your project, but you should nevertheless make the best effort you can to demonstrate the extent of your research question, sources and method at the time of your application.

Written work: One essay of 4,000 to a maximum of 5,000 words

You should submit an academic essay on a subject related to your proposed research topic. 

The essay should be typed or word-processed in English and must be clearly marked with your name and the date of composition. The word count does not need to include the end bibliography. Footnotes and in-text referencing are included.

This will be assessed for:

• clarity and accuracy of thought and writing
• intellectual independence
• willingness and ability to reach conclusions by reasoned argument rather than assertion
• a critical and attentive reading of any texts discussed
• understanding of important philosophical ideas and theories
• if required by the topic of the work, appropriate technical skills.

Start or continue your application

You can start or return to an application using the relevant link below. As you complete the form, please  refer to the requirements above  and  consult our Application Guide for advice . You'll find the answers to most common queries in our FAQs.

Application Guide   Apply

ADMISSION STATUS

Closed to applications for entry in 2024-25

Register to be notified via email when the next application cycle opens (for entry in 2025-26)

12:00 midday UK time on:

Friday 5 January 2024 Latest deadline for most Oxford scholarships Final application deadline for entry in 2024-25

*Three-year average (applications for entry in 2021-22 to 2023-24)

Further information and enquiries

This course is offered by the Faculty of Philosophy

• Course page  and FAQs on the faculty's website
• Funding information from the faculty
• Academic and research staff
• Faculty research
• Humanities Division
• Residence requirements for full-time courses

Course-related enquiries

Advice about contacting the department can be found in the How to apply section of this page

✉ [email protected] ☎ +44 (0)1865 276930

Application-process enquiries

See the application guide

Other courses to consider

You may also wish to consider applying to other courses that are similar or related to this course:

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Study at one of the top Philosophy research departments, 6th in the UK in the most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF2021) Power Rankings and 1st for Research Environment and Support. 

86 per cent of our research was valued as being world-leading or internationally excellent so you’ll be undertaking your PhD with real experts in their field.  

Our particular areas of expertise include the history of philosophy, philosophy of mind and psychology, philosophy of language and linguistics, metaphysics, epistemology and philosophy of science, moral and political philosophy.  

As a PhD student you can also take advantage of joint PhDs offered with partner universities abroad including Europe, USA and Asia

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Philosophy PhD

Awards: PhD

Funding opportunities

Programme website: Philosophy

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Research profile

We welcome research proposals of outstanding quality in any area of philosophy.

We are one of the world’s leading philosophy departments for research, boasting 40 academic researchers. Our research covers a wide range of philosophical topics and questions, with strengths in both contemporary philosophy and the history of philosophy.

Our areas of research and staff interests include:

• Ancient Greek and Medieval Islamic Philosophy
• Epistemology
• European Early Modern and Enlightenment Philosophy
• Existentialism and Phenomenology
• Logic and Language
• Metaphysics and Ontology
• Mind and Cognition
• Philosophy of Science
• Social and Political Philosophy

For more information of current staff interests please go to:

• Staff Research Interests

Philosophy is rated 4th in the UK by Times Higher Education for the quality and breadth of the research using the latest Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021).

The department has close links with other subject areas within the University, such as psychology, linguistics, informatics, jurisprudence, politics and classics.

Training and support

You will meet regularly with your supervisors, who will advise you on the steps to take towards producing your thesis. In their first year, students also participate in the proseminar, which provides an opportunity to learn about a wide range of philosophical topics and to meet different academic staff members.

All doctoral students are encouraged to participate in a bi-weekly postgraduate work-in-progress research seminar, and to take advantage of regular professional development and research training seminars offered within and outside the department.

Most PhD students will gain undergraduate teaching experience, for which you will be given training and mentoring.

• Find out more about our community

The School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Sciences is home to a large, supportive and active student community, hosting events and activities throughout the year which you can join. As a postgraduate student you will have access to a range of research resources, state of the art facilities, research seminars and reading groups.

Career opportunities

Many of our PhD graduates choose to remain in academia as lecturers and researchers.

Post-doctoral opportunities

Recent graduates have successfully attained post-doctoral positions at:

• University of Montreal
• British Academy Postdoc at Sheffield University
• University of Barcelona
• Ruhr University Bochum
• University of Trier
• Kansai University
• University of York
• University of Helsinki
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology

As well as faculty positions at:

• Nanyang Technological University
• University of Edinburgh
• University of Hokkaido's Center for Human Nature, Artificial Intelligence and Neuroscience
• Anderson University
• Fudan University
• University of Glasgow

Important application information

Find a research opportunity that matches your interests..

We strongly encourage you to get in touch with a potential supervisor, and to include their name in your application. When contacting a potential supervisor, please include a draft proposal and CV as this will provide the starting point for discussion. You can introduce yourself by explaining why their work interests you.

Writing your research proposal

Your research proposal will be used to consider whether supervision can be provided for the research that you propose, so it is important that your basic aims and area of investigation are clear.

We understand that it can be difficult to formulate research plans for a proposal well in advance of carrying out the work, but we encourage you to formulate your ideas clearly. You should expect to draft your proposal several times, and, ideally, seek comments on it from people able to discuss it with you (perhaps from your referees or former lecturers) before submitting your application.

Your proposal should be around 1000 words. This does not include any references or bibliography – you are encouraged to refer to relevant literature and may include a set of references as well as a proposal of the length described above.

Your proposal should include:

• A title for the project.
• A discussion of the research questions or hypothesis that you intend to address, along with a justification for them: what makes the problem or questions interesting and important?
• A brief explanation of the ideas or concepts that the research will investigate.
• A description of the research context in which you aim to work – you should refer explicitly to work which is similar to that which you are planning or which is influential on your ideas, and you should include the details of this work in a bibliography or list of references.
• An indication of feasibility: how will you go about answering the question in the timeframe of the PhD? What skills/knowledge do you need to acquire?

Given the limited scope of a PhD dissertation, you will not resolve a big, longstanding philosophical problem in your dissertation. Instead aim for a medium-sized contribution (i.e. greater scope than a single journal article, but no more than a short monograph) to a current debate in philosophy or philosophical scholarship.

If your application is successful, we expect that your research will develop. It is likely that your supervisor will suggest changes or developments to your research. Therefore, you will not be held to the ideas that you explain in your proposal during your research.

Prepare and submit your application details

To ensure full consideration of your application we ask that you submit your complete application including all supporting documentation.

You should include a sample of academic writing, such as an essay or article, written in the past two years. Ideally, your work sample should be about 2000 words and on a topic related to your proposed area of research. Longer samples are accepted, but the admissions panels are not expected to read significantly longer samples to completion.

You will be asked to add contact details for your referees. We will email them with information on how to upload their reference directly to your online application. Please allow plenty of time as we can only consider your application once we have received your full application, including your references.

Prepare a funding application

Our PhD positions do not come with automatic funding. The AHRC , specifically the Scottish Graduate School for Arts and Humanities ( SGSAH ), is a main source of funding for our PhD students.

• AHRC information

All applicants in the first round (November deadline) are strongly encouraged to prepare an application to the SGSAH . This application is submitted to PPLS immediately after your application for a PhD position at PPLS. Do not wait to be offered a place to study first.

We select a number of proposals based on academic merit and funding potential to be considered by the SGSAH . If you do not complete the SGSAH application, you greatly diminish your chances of receiving funding for your PhD.

Shortlisted candidates will have the opportunity to work on their proposal further prior to final submission to SGSAH .

• Find out more about the application process

Pre-application Checklist

To receive a pre-arrival checklist to help you with your application, please email the PPLS Postgraduate Office at [email protected]

Please complete this checklist to keep track of your application preparations. Please submit the completed checklist as an additional document to your application.

Philosophy at Edinburgh

Entry requirements.

These entry requirements are for the 2024/25 academic year and requirements for future academic years may differ. Entry requirements for the 2025/26 academic year will be published on 1 Oct 2024.

A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in philosophy.

Your application will also be considered if you have a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in another subject and a postgraduate masters level degree in philosophy.

Your academic achievements will be assessed by a panel of academics along with the research proposal submitted as part of your application.

International qualifications

Check whether your international qualifications meet our general entry requirements:

• Entry requirements by country
• English language requirements

Regardless of your nationality or country of residence, you must demonstrate a level of English language competency at a level that will enable you to succeed in your studies.

English language tests

We accept the following English language qualifications at the grades specified:

• IELTS Academic: total 7.0 with at least 6.5 in each component. We do not accept IELTS One Skill Retake to meet our English language requirements.
• TOEFL-iBT (including Home Edition): total 100 with at least 23 in each component. We do not accept TOEFL MyBest Score to meet our English language requirements.
• C1 Advanced ( CAE ) / C2 Proficiency ( CPE ): total 185 with at least 176 in each component.
• Trinity ISE : ISE III with passes in all four components.
• PTE Academic: total 70 with at least 62 in each component.

Your English language qualification must be no more than three and a half years old from the start date of the programme you are applying to study, unless you are using IELTS , TOEFL, Trinity ISE or PTE , in which case it must be no more than two years old.

Degrees taught and assessed in English

We also accept an undergraduate or postgraduate degree that has been taught and assessed in English in a majority English speaking country, as defined by UK Visas and Immigration:

• UKVI list of majority English speaking countries

We also accept a degree that has been taught and assessed in English from a university on our list of approved universities in non-majority English speaking countries (non-MESC).

• Approved universities in non-MESC

If you are not a national of a majority English speaking country, then your degree must be no more than five years old* at the beginning of your programme of study. (*Revised 05 March 2024 to extend degree validity to five years.)

Find out more about our language requirements:

• Fees and costs

Read our general information on tuition fees and studying costs:

Scholarships and funding

Only applications received by the Round 1 deadline will be considered for University of Edinburgh based funding. You may be able to secure external funding outside of this deadline.

Featured funding

• Scottish Graduate School for Arts and Humanities Funding
• [College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences Research Awards] ( https://www.ed.ac.uk/ppls/philosophy/prospective/postgraduate/funding/arts-humanities-soc-sci-research-awards )
• [Edinburgh Doctoral College Scholarships] ( https://www.ed.ac.uk/student-funding/postgraduate/international/other-funding/doctoral-college )

UK government postgraduate loans

If you live in the UK, you may be able to apply for a postgraduate loan from one of the UK’s governments.

The type and amount of financial support you are eligible for will depend on:

• your programme
• the duration of your studies
• your tuition fee status

Programmes studied on a part-time intermittent basis are not eligible.

• UK government and other external funding

Other funding opportunities

Search for scholarships and funding opportunities:

• Search for funding

Further information

• PPLS Postgraduate Office
• Phone: +44 (0)131 651 5002
• Contact: [email protected]
• Dugald Stewart Building
• 3 Charles Street
• Central Campus
• Programme: Philosophy
• School: Philosophy, Psychology & Language Sciences
• College: Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences

This programme is not currently accepting applications. Applications for the next intake usually open in October.

Start date: September

Application deadlines

We operate a gathered field approach to PhD applications.

This means that all complete applications which satisfy our minimum entry requirements will be held until the nearest deadline. The admissions panel will meet to consider all applications received together after that date.

Applications are held for processing over two deadlines:

(Revised 12 October 2023 to amend the application deadlines)

• How to apply

Please read through the ‘Important application information’ section on this page before applying.

Find out more about the general application process for postgraduate programmes:

UCL Philosophy

• Prospective students

The Philosophy MPhil/PhD at UCL provides a route for students to produce a thesis of original research under the guidance of their supervisor(s). Those who have not already completed the MPhil Stud (or equivalent) are required to take graduate modules assessed by several papers in their first year to upgrade to PhD status.

Key information

Programme starts.

September 2021

Modes and duration

Application dates, tuition fees (2021/22).

Note on fees: The tuition fees shown are for the year indicated above. Fees for subsequent years may increase or otherwise vary. Further information on fee status, fee increases and the fee schedule can be viewed on the UCL Students website: ucl.ac.uk/students/fees .

Entry requirements

The usual prerequisite for the MPhil/PhD is a one-year research degree in Philosophy or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard. Direct admission to the PhD requires the MPhil Stud (or equivalent). All applicants for research degrees must submit two short pieces of work, of about 2,000 words each, with their application.

English language requirements

If your education has not been conducted in the English language, you will be expected to demonstrate evidence of an adequate level of English proficiency.

The English language level for this programme is: Good

Further information can be found on our English language requirements page.

International students

Country-specific information, including details of when UCL representatives are visiting your part of the world, can be obtained from the International Students website .

International applicants can find out the equivalent qualification for their country by selecting from the list below.

Select your country: Select a country Afghanistan Albania Algeria Argentina Armenia Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Bolivia Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Brazil Brunei Bulgaria Cambodia Cameroon Canada Caribbean / West Indies Chile China Colombia Congo (DR) Costa Rica Croatia Cuba Cyprus (Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities) Czech Republic Denmark Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Fiji Finland France Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Greece Guatemala Guyana Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Israel Italy Ivory Coast Jamaica Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macau Macedonia Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Malta Mauritius Mexico Moldova Mongolia Montenegro Morocco Myanmar (Burma) Namibia Nepal Netherlands New Zealand Nicaragua Nigeria Norway Oman Pakistan Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Qatar Romania Russia Rwanda Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Sierra Leone Singapore Slovakia Slovenia South Africa South Korea Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Swaziland/Eswatini Sweden Switzerland Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Trinidad & Tobago Tunisia Turkey (including Turkish sector of Cyprus) Turkmenistan Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates (UAE) United States of America Uruguay Uzbekistan Venezuela Vietnam Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe

Our research is consistently ranked among the best in the country. The department has a lively and flourishing postgraduate community, and advanced research students are offered opportunities to gain teaching experience. We enjoy collaborative connections with other London universities, and the activities of the nearby Royal Institute of Philosophy, the Aristotelian Society, and the University of London Institute of Philosophy.

Research areas

• Ancient Philosophy
• Epistemology
• History of 20th-Century Philosophy
• Metaphysics
• Nineteenth and Twentieth Century Continental Philosophy 
• Nineteenth Century German Philosophy
• Philosophy of Language
• Philosophy of Mind
• Philosophy of Perception
• Political Philosophy

About this degree

Additional costs.

For more information on additional costs for prospective students please go to our estimated cost of essential expenditure at Accommodation and living costs .

Accessibility

Details of the accessibility of UCL buildings can be obtained from AccessAble accessable.co.uk . Further information can also be obtained from the UCL Student Support & Wellbeing team .

MPhil/PhD and PhD candidates will be considered for AHRC funding through the LAHP (London Arts & Humanities Partnership), whose members are UCL, King's College London, Queen Mary University of London, the London School of Economics & Political Science and the School of Advanced Study at the University of London. Other scholarships and sources of funding may be available; please check the UCL Scholarships and Funding website. You should take note of funding application deadlines as these can differ from programme application deadlines.

The department has a set of funds to offer awards to research students which are allocated on the basis of merit and need. These include the Jacobsen Scholarship (one-year award of £9,000) and one or two S V Keeling Scholarships in ancient philosophy (covering UK/EU fees and maintenance matching AHRC funding). There are also the Ayer, Dawes Hicks, Melhuish and JS Mill Scholarships, each worth £200 to £4,500.

Scholarships relevant to this department are displayed below.

Dawes-Hicks Award

Jacobsen scholarship, ucl research opportunity scholarship, g. melhuish award, keeling scholarship.

For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the Scholarships and Funding website .

Recent graduates with a PhD in Philosophy from UCL have gained prestigious academic fellowships as well as postdoctoral placements in the UK and elsewhere in Europe (for example at the University of Oxford, the University of London, University of Cambridge, Sheffield University, University of Antwerp and Leipzig University). Others have gone on to lectureships in the UK (for example at the University of Oxford, University of York, LSE) and overseas at the University of Cape Town and the University of Melbourne. Those who have not pursued an academic career have entered a variety of professions, including law, public policy, and publishing.

Employability

The department has an outstanding job placement record in a highly competitive academic market. The most successful candidates in this market are valued for their range of teaching competence, provided for by the taught elements of the MPhil/PhD programme, as well as for their particular area of specialisation, determined by the research topic of the doctoral thesis. During the course of the programme, students receive training in presentational skills, interview practice and teaching methods, and are encouraged to present their research at the department's Work in Progress seminars, and at graduate and academic conferences in the UK and overseas.

The department has links with US universities (Berkeley, Columbia and Yale). Academic staff are involved in the running of the Aristotelian Society, the main philosophy society in the UK. Others are involved in running the Institute of Classical Studies lecture series, and the Keeling Colloquia and Lectures in ancient philosophy. Philosophy graduate students host a philosophy conference at the start of every year, and co-organise an annual graduate philosophy conference with graduate students at Berkeley. Finally, the Royal Institute of Philosophy lecture series, co-ordinated by the Institute of Philosophy at Senate House, is open to our graduate students.

Why study this degree at UCL?

The doctoral programme at UCL provides students with the opportunity to conduct original research in philosophy in one of the UK's top philosophy departments, under the supervision of prominent academics in the field. The PhD programme is designed to prepare students for an academic career, whether it be via the MPhil/PhD or the PhD following on from the MPhil Stud (or equivalent), by ensuring that students receive grounding across a range of topics as well as producing a research thesis.

Department: Philosophy

What our students and staff say

"UCL has one of the best philosophy departments in the world. With the other London universities there are interesting talks, workshops, and conferences taking place all the time. Most of my work is on causation, laws of nature, and probability, and the relationship between these three things. Work on probability and causation is a cross-disciplinary venture, involving philosophers, computer scientists, statisticians, and psychologists, among others." Professor Luke Fenton-Glynn Philosophy MA, Philosophy MPhil/PhD UCL Philosophy

"UCL provides numerous networking opportunities. I have attended conferences within the University of London, the University of Essex, the John Felice Rome Center of Loyola University Chicago. I have presented papers at the Centre for Research in Modern European Philosophy 2015 Conference, along with attending frequent philosophy talks at the nearby Aristotelian Society and Royal Institute of Philosophy." Helena Cicmil Philosophy

Application and next steps

• Applications

Students are advised to apply as early as possible due to competition for places. Those applying for scholarship funding (particularly overseas applicants) should take note of application deadlines.

This programme requires two references. Further information regarding references can be found in our How to apply section .

Application deadlines

The MPhil/PhD and PhD start date is September each year. Please attach two samples of your written work (2,000 words each) in addition to your research proposal. For more information see our How to apply page.

For more information see our Applications page.

UCL is regulated by the Office for Students .

Page last modified on 9 November 2021

Contact information

• Mr Richard Edwards
• [email protected]
• +44 (0)20 7679 7115

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MPhil/PhD Philosophy

• Graduate research
• Department of Philosophy Logic and Scientific Method
• Application code V7ZP
• Starting 2024
• Home full-time: Closed
• Overseas full-time: Closed
• Location: Houghton Street, London

The Department of Philosophy, Logic and Scientific Method is a world-leading centre for research in three broad areas of philosophy: rational choice theory and formal epistemology; philosophy of science; and moral and political philosophy.

We accept MPhil/PhD students wishing to work in any field of research in which the department has special expertise, including philosophy of the natural sciences (especially physics and biology); distributive justice and normative ethics; philosophy and public policy; philosophy of the social sciences (especially economics); decision theory, evolutionary and game theory; and formal epistemology.

We are committed to research that makes a difference not only to philosophy and the philosophies of the various sciences, but also to the practice of the sciences themselves – from economics and political science to physics, biology and medicine – as well as to the wider world. The Department’s teaching is research-led: courses cover cutting-edge material and are taught by some of the field’s leading scholars.

On this programme you will work towards producing a substantial piece of work that makes an original contribution to the subject and is of a sufficient standard to give rise to publications in professional academic journals.

You will benefit from the department’s close association with the Centre for Philosophy of Natural and Social Science , which hosts leading visiting scholars and supports a range of research projects, seminars and lecture series, and The Forum for Philosophy , which runs a full and varied programme of philosophy and interdisciplinary events. You will also have the opportunity to attend and take part in the Department’s regular seminar and lecture series, including the Choice Group on decision theory and social choice, and the Sigma Club on the philosophy and foundations of modern physics.

As a Philosophy MPhil/PhD student you will be given the chance to teach the undergraduate discussion classes that are run in parallel with lectures. An essential part of becoming a good philosopher is learning how to teach, share and discuss ideas with those interested in philosophy at all levels, and the discussion classes you lead at LSE will provide ample opportunity.

The department  is currently recruiting one research student for a fully funded 4-year PhD degree, as part of the ‘Not in My Name!’ project . Applications close on 15 January 2024 for a September 2024 start date.

Programme details

For more information about tuition fees and entry requirements, see the fees and funding and assessing your application sections.

Entry requirements

Minimum entry requirements for mphil/phd philosophy.

The minimum entry requirement for this programme is a taught master’s degree (or equivalent) in philosophy (or a sufficiently relevant discipline). We normally accept only those who achieve the equivalent of a distinction overall and in the dissertation component of their master's degree.

Competition for places at the School is high. This means that even if you meet our minimum entry requirement, this does not guarantee you an offer of admission. 

If you have studied or are studying outside of the UK then have a look at our  Information for International Students  to find out the entry requirements that apply to you.

Assessing your application

We welcome applications for research programmes that complement the academic interests of members of staff at the School, and we recommend that you investigate  staff research interests  before applying.

We carefully consider each application on an individual basis, taking into account all the information presented on your application form, including your:

- academic achievement (including existing and pending qualifications) - statement of academic purpose - references - CV - outline research proposal - sample of written work.

Research proposal

This is an important document, which should provide a description of your likely research topic for your PhD. (There is scope for changes in this topic during the first year. In consultation with your academic supervisor, you will need to settle on a definite research topic by the end of that year.) So long as you provide a brief summary of your entire research project at the outset, it is not a problem to exceed the suggested 1,500 word limit even by a significant amount. If you already have a well-worked-out PhD project, you are in fact encouraged to supply a detailed description, which may include chapter by chapter summaries. If you would like your project to be supervised by a particular member or members of the Department, please indicate this in your proposal. Contrary to LSE's general guidance on research proposals, you do not need to provide either a description of the methodology you will employ or case studies, as these particular guidelines are for dissertations in the social sciences rather than philosophy.

Please note that a precise research topic can be accepted only if someone in the Department is well-placed to supervise such a project.

Writing sample

This is another important document. It is not a problem to include a writing sample that exceeds 3,000 words even by a significant amount, so long as you indicate, at the outset, a 3,000 word subset of this longer piece of writing on which the selection committee should focus their attention. It is not necessary to provide a scanned copy of your writing sample. You may, for example, simply upload a Word file.

See further information on supporting documents

You may also have to provide evidence of your English proficiency. You do not need to provide this at the time of your application to LSE, but we recommend that you do.  See our English language requirements  for further information.

When to apply

The application deadline for this programme is 15 January 2024 . However, to be considered for any LSE funding opportunity, you must have submitted your application and all supporting documents by the funding deadline. See the fees and funding section for more details.

Fees and funding

Every research student is charged a fee in line with the fee structure for their programme.  The fee covers registration and examination fees payable to the School, lectures, classes and individual supervision, lectures given at other colleges under intercollegiate arrangements and, under current arrangements, membership of the Students' Union. It does not cover living costs or travel or fieldwork.

Tuition fees 2024/25 for MPhil/PhD Philosophy

Home students: £4,786 for the first year Overseas students: £22,632 for the first year

The fee is likely to rise over subsequent years of the programme. The School charges home research students in line with the level of fee that the Research Councils recommend. The fees for overseas students are likely to rise in line with the assumed percentage increase in pay costs (ie, 4 per cent per annum).

The Table of Fees shows the latest tuition amounts for all programmes offered by the School.

Fee status​

The amount of tuition fees you will need to pay, and any financial support you are eligible for, will depend on whether you are classified as a home or overseas student, otherwise known as your fee status. LSE assesses your fee status based on guidelines provided by the Department of Education.

Further information about fee status classification.

Scholarships, studentships and other funding

This programme is eligible for  LSE PhD Studentships . Selection for the PhD Studentships is based on receipt of an application for a place – including all ancillary documents, before the funding deadline. 

The department is also currently recruiting one research student for a fully funded 4-year PhD degree, as part of the ‘Not in My Name!’ project . 

Funding deadline for the LSE PhD Studentships and the fully-funded 'Not in My Name!' project: 15 January 2024 . 

In addition to our needs-based awards, LSE also makes available scholarships for students from specific regions of the world and awards for students studying specific subject areas.  Find out more about financial support.

External funding 

There may be other funding opportunities available through other organisations or governments and we recommend you investigate these options as well.

Further information

Fees and funding opportunities

Information for international students

LSE is an international community, with over 140 nationalities represented amongst its student body. We celebrate this diversity through everything we do.  

If you are applying to LSE from outside of the UK then take a look at our Information for International students . 

1) Take a note of the UK qualifications we require for your programme of interest (found in the ‘Entry requirements’ section of this page). 

2) Go to the International Students section of our website. 

3) Select your country. 

4) Select ‘Graduate entry requirements’ and scroll until you arrive at the information about your local/national qualification. Compare the stated UK entry requirements listed on this page with the local/national entry requirement listed on your country specific page.

Programme structure and courses

In addition to making progress on your PhD project, you are expected to take the listed training and transferable skills courses. You may take courses in addition to those listed and should discuss this with your supervisor. All programmes of study should be agreed with your supervisor at the start of the year.

The first “coursework” year prepares students for research in philosophy and the completion of a central thesis chapter. At the end of this first year the progress of students is reviewed, to establish that they are on track to upgrade from MPhil to PhD status. In consultation with their academic supervisors, PhD students also settle on a definite research topic by the end of the first year.

Training courses

Compulsory (examined/not examined)  Philosophical Problems Seminar Examines a range of classic papers in contemporary analytic philosophy that might not otherwise be covered in LSE Philosophy Department courses.  Either Logic and Probability Aims to give a precise formulation of correct deductive reasoning – of what it means for a sentence to follow from a set of other sentences taken as premises – and to investigate on this basis other important logical notions such as that of consistency.  Or One further master's-level course not already taken

Either one further  master's-level course not already taken And Courses to the value of one unit of PhD Seminars Or   Three term units of PhD level seminars with associated coursework

Optional (not examined) Transferable skills courses offered by the Teaching and Learning Centre or the Methodology Institute.

Second year

Years 2–4 is the time when PhD students dive deep into the research and writing of their thesis. While writing the thesis students attend the Department’s Popper Seminar, but also any of the wealth of regular research seminars that may be relevant to their research.

Students in their 2nd year aim to write two or three further chapters beyond the chapter they completed in their first year.

Optional (not examined) Research Seminar in the Philosophy of Natural Sciences This is a special topics course on the philosophy of physics. It meets weekly, and has two components. The first component (roughly half the meetings) will consist in lectures on the philosophy of physics. The remaining component will consist in attending cutting-edge lectures by professional philosophers of physics, and in some cases by other philosophers of science.

Research Seminar in the Philosophy of Economics and Social Sciences Covers philosophical issues in economics and the social sciences. Research Methods in Philosophy Covers topics in contemporary philosophy. Optional (examined/not examined)  Transferable skills courses offered by the Teaching and Learning Centre or the Methodology Institute.

In the 3rd year students produce a draft of the entire thesis, while writing papers, submitting to conferences, and getting to know the dynamic field of philosophy and their place in it. In the 4th year, students polish their material and prepare to go on the job market.

Optional (not examined)

Research Seminar in the Philosophy of Natural Sciences This is a special topics course on the philosophy of physics. It meets weekly, and has two components. The first component (roughly half the meetings) will consist in lectures on the philosophy of physics. The remaining component will consist in attending cutting-edge lectures by professional philosophers of physics, and in some cases by other philosophers of science.

Research Seminar in the Philosophy of Economics and Social Sciences Covers philosophical issues in economics and the social sciences. Research Methods in Philosophy Covers topics in contemporary philosophy.

Optional (examined/not examined)  Transferable skills courses offered by the Teaching and Learning Centre or the Methodology Institute.

Fourth year

Optional (examined/not examined)  Transferable skills courses offered by the Teaching and Learning Centre or the Department of Methodology.

For the most up-to-date list of optional courses please visit the relevant School Calendar page.  

You must note, however, that while care has been taken to ensure that this information is up to date and correct, a change of circumstances since publication may cause the School to change, suspend or withdraw a course or programme of study, or change the fees that apply to it. The School will always notify the affected parties as early as practicably possible and propose any viable and relevant alternative options. Note that the School will neither be liable for information that after publication becomes inaccurate or irrelevant, nor for changing, suspending or withdrawing a course or programme of study due to events outside of its control, which includes but is not limited to a lack of demand for a course or programme of study, industrial action, fire, flood or other environmental or physical damage to premises.  

You must also note that places are limited on some courses and/or subject to specific entry requirements. The School cannot therefore guarantee you a place. Please note that changes to programmes and courses can sometimes occur after you have accepted your offer of a place. These changes are normally made in light of developments in the discipline or path-breaking research, or on the basis of student feedback. Changes can take the form of altered course content, teaching formats or assessment modes. Any such changes are intended to enhance the student learning experience. You should visit the School’s  Calendar , or contact the relevant academic department, for information on the availability and/or content of courses and programmes of study. Certain substantive changes will be listed on the  updated graduate course and programme information page.

Supervision, progression, and assessment

Supervision.

PhD students in the Department work with two supervisors from the  academic faculty , to ensure a wide range of advice. The choice of secondary supervisor can be quite flexible (and occasionally includes academics from outside the Department). The primary supervisor is a senior member of staff. Both primary and secondary supervisory arrangements can change in the course of the degree as your thesis develops. 

Progression and assessment

Successful completion of work required for each year is a necessary condition for re-registration in the following year; and for upgrading from MPhil to PhD status. During the first year you must write a first chapter of the thesis as well as an outline (research plan) of the rest of the thesis. The chapter should be around 40 pages; the research plan around ten pages. This upgrading will normally take place after the successful completion of Year One requirements in Case A, and after the successful completion of Year Two requirements in Case B. In both cases, once you are registered for the PhD that registration will be backdated to the start of your MPhil/PhD studies.

Student support and resources

We’re here to help and support you throughout your time at LSE, whether you need help with your academic studies, support with your welfare and wellbeing or simply to develop on a personal and professional level.

Whatever your query, big or small, there are a range of people you can speak to who will be happy to help.  

Department librarians   – they will be able to help you navigate the library and maximise its resources during your studies. 

Accommodation service  – they can offer advice on living in halls and offer guidance on private accommodation related queries.

Class teachers and seminar leaders  – they will be able to assist with queries relating to specific courses. 

Disability and Wellbeing Service  – they are experts in long-term health conditions, sensory impairments, mental health and specific learning difficulties. They offer confidential and free services such as  student counselling,  a  peer support scheme  and arranging  exam adjustments.  They run groups and workshops.  

IT help  – support is available 24 hours a day to assist with all your technology queries.   

LSE Faith Centre  – this is home to LSE's diverse religious activities and transformational interfaith leadership programmes, as well as a space for worship, prayer and quiet reflection. It includes Islamic prayer rooms and a main space for worship. It is also a space for wellbeing classes on campus and is open to all students and staff from all faiths and none.   

Language Centre  – the Centre specialises in offering language courses targeted to the needs of students and practitioners in the social sciences. We offer pre-course English for Academic Purposes programmes; English language support during your studies; modern language courses in nine languages; proofreading, translation and document authentication; and language learning community activities.

LSE Careers  ­ – with the help of LSE Careers, you can make the most of the opportunities that London has to offer. Whatever your career plans, LSE Careers will work with you, connecting you to opportunities and experiences from internships and volunteering to networking events and employer and alumni insights. 

LSE Library   –   founded in 1896, the British Library of Political and Economic Science is the major international library of the social sciences. It stays open late, has lots of excellent resources and is a great place to study. As an LSE student, you’ll have access to a number of other academic libraries in Greater London and nationwide. 

LSE LIFE  – this is where you should go to develop skills you’ll use as a student and beyond. The centre runs talks and workshops on skills you’ll find useful in the classroom; offers one-to-one sessions with study advisers who can help you with reading, making notes, writing, research and exam revision; and provides drop-in sessions for academic and personal support. (See ‘Teaching and assessment’). 

LSE Students’ Union (LSESU)  – they offer academic, personal and financial advice and funding.  

PhD Academy   – this is available for PhD students, wherever they are, to take part in interdisciplinary events and other professional development activities and access all the services related to their registration. 

Sardinia House Dental Practice   – this   offers discounted private dental services to LSE students.  

St Philips Medical Centre  – based in Pethwick-Lawrence House, the Centre provides NHS Primary Care services to registered patients.

Student Services Centre  – our staff here can answer general queries and can point you in the direction of other LSE services.  

Student advisers   – we have a  Deputy Head of Student Services (Advice and Policy)  and an  Adviser to Women Students  who can help with academic and pastoral matters.

Student life

As a student at LSE you’ll be based at our central London campus. Find out what our campus and London have to offer you on academic, social and career perspective. 

Student societies and activities

Your time at LSE is not just about studying, there are plenty of ways to get involved in  extracurricular activities . From joining one of over 200 societies, or starting your own society, to volunteering for a local charity, or attending a public lecture by a world-leading figure, there is a lot to choose from. 

The campus 

LSE is based on one  campus  in the centre of London. Despite the busy feel of the surrounding area, many of the streets around campus are pedestrianised, meaning the campus feels like a real community. 

Life in London 

London is an exciting, vibrant and colourful city. It's also an academic city, with more than 400,000 university students. Whatever your interests or appetite you will find something to suit your palate and pocket in this truly international capital. Make the most of career opportunities and social activities, theatre, museums, music and more. 

Want to find out more? Read why we think  London is a fantastic student city , find out about  key sights, places and experiences for new Londoners . Don't fear, London doesn't have to be super expensive: hear about  London on a budget . 

Quick Careers Facts for the Department of Philosophy, Logic and Scientific Method

Median salary of our PG students 15 months after graduating: £34,500

Top 5 sectors our students work in:

• Education, Teaching and Research            
• Government, Public Sector and Policy   
• Consultancy      
• Health and Social Care  
• International Organisations

The data was collected as part of the Graduate Outcomes survey, which is administered by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA). Graduates from 2020-21 were the fourth group to be asked to respond to Graduate Outcomes. Median salaries are calculated for respondents who are paid in UK pounds sterling and who were working in full-time employment.

Students who successfully complete the programme often embark on an academic career. Recent doctoral graduates have also gone into careers in consulting, teaching and business. 

The Department maintains a placement record of its former PhD students.

Further information on graduate destinations for this programme

Support for your career

Many leading organisations give careers presentations at the School during the year, and LSE Careers has a wide range of resources available to assist students in their job search. Find out more about the  support available to students through LSE Careers .

Find out more about LSE

Discover more about being an LSE student - meet us in a city near you, visit our campus or experience LSE from home. 

Experience LSE from home

Webinars, videos, student blogs and student video diaries will help you gain an insight into what it's like to study at LSE for those that aren't able to make it to our campus.  Experience LSE from home . 

Come on a guided campus tour, attend an undergraduate open day, drop into our office or go on a self-guided tour.  Find out about opportunities to visit LSE . 

LSE visits you

Student Marketing, Recruitment and Study Abroad travels throughout the UK and around the world to meet with prospective students. We visit schools, attend education fairs and also hold Destination LSE events: pre-departure events for offer holders.  Find details on LSE's upcoming visits . 

How to apply

Virtual Graduate Open Day

Register your interest

Visit the Philosophy website

Related Programmes

Msc philosophy and public policy.

Code(s) V7U8

MRes/PhD Political Science

Code(s) M1ZN

MSc Philosophy of Economics and the Social Sciences

Code(s) V7U1

MPhil/PhD Sociology

Code(s) L3ZS

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Department of Philosophy

PhD/MPhil in Philosophy

Work in an inspiring academic environment and be supported by supervisors with a broad range of philosophical expertise.

Philosophical research challenges prevailing opinion. It advances our understanding of the world towards a more informed, inclusive and sustainable future. Produce inspired original analysis in an intellectual and supportive community at the forefront of research in philosophy.

Your research

At York, the breadth and diversity of our expertise means we are well-positioned to supervise research across a range of fields in philosophy, from ancient Greeks to current discussions of data privacy, AI and the political economy.

[email protected] +44 (0) 1904 323251

Related links

• How to apply
• Find funding

You'll work towards a final thesis of 80,000 words for the PhD or 60,000 words for the MPhil. A typical semester will involve a great deal of independent research, with guidance from your supervisor who will be able to suggest direction and address concerns. You'll work independently in a research environment that thrives on creativity and scholarship.

A research degree will help you to develop your academic, creative and practical skills. You'll have the opportunity to grow your network and participate in an exciting range of events, including seminars, research groups and guest lectures.

At York, we have research strengths in:

• Aesthetics, art and literature
• History of philosophy (with particular interests in early modern philosophy and German idealism)
• Metaphysics (including philosophy of mathematics and philosophy of time)
• Phenomenology and continental philosophy
• Philosophy of medicine and health
• Philosophy of mind and perception
• Philosophy of religion
• Political and legal philosophy
• Theoretical and applied ethics (including ethics of AI)

Distance learning

We also offer the option of enrolling in a PhD in Philosophy by distance learning. You'll have the flexibility to work from anywhere in the world. You'll attend online research skills training sessions in your first year and have supervision and progression meetings online.

Distance learning students will need to attend campus for two weeks each year. This includes registration and induction, training, meetings with the thesis advisory panel, and our annual PhD Progression Day.

2nd in the UK

for research in Philosophy , in the Times Higher Education’s ranking of the latest REF results (2021).

Humanities Research Centre

The HRC provides a fantastic new research environment for postgraduate students in the humanities, and for postdoctoral scholars. The wireless postgraduate work space, located on the first and mezzanine floors, is open 24/7.

World Top 100

York is ranked 79th for the study of arts and humanities, in the QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2024.

Find funding for postgraduate researchers in the Department of Philosophy.

Supervision

Explore the expertise of our staff and identify a potential supervisor.

Training and support

You'll be taught and supervised by staff who produce internationally-renowned research, and benefit from the Department's friendly, supportive community.

Throughout your degree, your supervisor will monitor your progress, and will help you to hone the focus of your research.

As you develop your thesis, you'll attend meetings with a Thesis Advisory Panel, consisting of at least one member of staff in addition to your supervisor. You'll meet twice a year (once a year for part-time students) to discuss your research project, as well as professional development and career training.

Careers and skills

Your PhD or MPhil will give you the ability to apply analytical research for application across a range of philosophical debates. You'll graduate with transferable skills in creative problem-solving, critical analysis, writing, and the ability to craft and execute detailed research projects. 

Our dedicated careers team offer specific support, including a programme of professional researcher development and careers workshops and 1:1 career support sessions . They will help you with your employability portfolio, and to engage in activities that will build up your skills and experience within and outside of your research work.

Course location

This course is run by the Department of Philosophy .

You'll be based on Campus West, though your research may take you further afield.

Distance learning students can study from anywhere in the world, but are expected to attend events and training in York several times per year.

Entry requirements

For research degrees, you'll need to hold a Master's degree in philosophy, or equivalent.

Other relevant experience and expertise may also be considered:

• Evidence of training in research techniques may be an advantage.
• You should be familiar with the recent published work of your proposed supervisor.
• Publications are not required and we don't expect applicants to have been published before they start their research degrees.

Supervisors interview prospective doctoral students to ensure a good supervisory match and to help with funding applications. Most interviews take place via Zoom.

For further details on postgraduate research admissions, contact us .

English language requirements

If English is not your first language you must provide evidence of your ability.

Check your English language requirements

Identify a supervisor

You should   identify a potential supervisor   in the Department whose area of research overlaps with yours. We encourage you to contact them to discuss your research proposal before you apply.

You should note your preferred supervisor in your application.

Your research proposal

As an applicant to postgraduate research courses, you'll be asked to submit a clear, well-structured   research proposal .

Take a look at the   supporting documents   you may need for your application.

Submit your application

You can apply and send all your documentation electronically through our online system. You don’t need to complete your application all at once: you can start, save, and finish it later.

We will respond to your application as soon as possible. You may track the status of your application and view any official correspondence online.

Apply for PhD in Philosophy

Apply for MPhil in Philosophy

Apply for PhD in Philosophy (by distance learning)

Find out more about how to apply .

Discover York

Accommodation

We offer a range of campus accommodation to suit you and your budget, from economy to deluxe.

Discover more about our researchers, facilities and why York is the perfect choice for your research degree.

Graduate Research School

Connect with researchers across all disciplines to get the most out of your research project.

Meet us online or on campus

Find out all you need to know about applying to York

Scholarships

Find scholarships to support your studies.

Department of Philosophy

Phd in philosophy (p-v7p3).

PhD degrees typically last between three and four years; see the course structure page for more details. The PhD in Philosophy is aimed at outstanding students who wish to pursue advanced research in philosophy and ultimately to become professional researchers in, and teachers of, philosophy.

As a PhD student, you will produce a maximum 80,000 word thesis that can provide the basis for professional publication. While many UK philosophy departments possess strength in analytic philosophy or continental philosophy, we are distinctive in having world-leading philosophers from both fields. The department has particular research strengths in Philosophy of Mind and Psychology, Epistemology, The Philosophy of Art and Literature, Moral and Political Philosophy, 20th Century Continental Philosophy, and Kant and 19th Century Post-Kantian Philosophy.

We are keen to supervise doctoral research in any of these or related areas. In addition, individual members of staff have research expertise in and are able to supervise students who want to work on topics in linguistics and philosophy of language, metaphysics, aesthetics, philosophy of perception, and the philosophy of logic. This list is not exhaustive, however, and you are invited to explore the academic staff listing to identify a potential supervisor for your thesis.

Further information

Alternatively, use our A–Z index

Attend an open day

Discover more about Philosophy at Manchester

PhD Philosophy / Overview

Year of entry: 2024

• View full page
• Bachelor's (Honours) degree in a cognate subject at 2:1 or above (or overseas equivalent); and
• Master's degree in a relevant subject - with an overall average of 65% or above, a minimum mark of 65% in your dissertation and no mark below 55% (or overseas equivalent)

Full entry requirements

Apply online

Please ensure you include all required supporting documents at the time of submission, as incomplete applications may not be considered.

Application Deadlines

If you would like to be considered for University of Manchester funding, we reccomend you apply as early as possible. If you are applying for or have secured external funding (for example, from an employer or government) or are self-funding, you must submit your application before the below deadlines to be considered. You will not be able to apply after these dates have passed.

• For September 2024 entry: 30 June 2024
• For January 2025 entry: 30 September 2024

Programme options

Programme overview

• Pursue state-of-the-art doctoral research investigating a diverse array of philosophical issues. 
• Work in an environment that supports intellectual and personal development. 
• Receive extensive research support and training.

Please enable JavaScript to watch this video.

We will be conducting our PGR virtual open week in October 2024. Find out more about future events and postgraduate research sessions by signing up for our email alerts.

For entry in the academic year beginning September 2024, the tuition fees are as follows:

• PhD (full-time) UK students (per annum): £4,786 International, including EU, students (per annum): £21,500
• PhD (part-time) UK students (per annum): £2,393 International, including EU, students (per annum): £10,750

Further information for EU students can be found on our dedicated EU page.

Scholarships/sponsorships

There are a range of scholarships, studentships and awards available to support both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers, details of which can be found via the links below.

To apply University of Manchester funding, you must indicate in your application the competitions for which you wish to be considered.

All external funding competitions have a specified deadline for submitting your funding application and a separate (earlier) deadline for submitting the online programme application form, both of which will be stated in the funding competition details below.

For more information about funding, visit our funding page to browse for scholarships, studentships and awards you may be eligible for.

• School of Social Sciences PhD Studentships 2024 Entry
• AHRC North West Consortium Doctoral Training Partnership (NWCDTP) PhD Studentships - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
• China Scholarship Council - The University of Manchester (CSC-UoM) Joint Scholarship Programme - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
• Trudeau Doctoral Scholarships 2024 Entry
• PhD Studentship with the Stuart Hall Foundation (Social Sciences) - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry
• Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (High Income Countries)
• Humanities Doctoral Academy Humanitarian Scholarship 2024 Entry
• Commonwealth PhD Scholarships (Least Developed Countries and Fragile States)
• President's Doctoral Scholar (PDS) Awards - Competition Closed for 2024 Entry

Contact details

See: School Subjects

Programmes in related subject areas

Use the links below to view lists of programmes in related subject areas.

• Social Sciences

Regulated by the Office for Students

The University of Manchester is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS). The OfS aims to help students succeed in Higher Education by ensuring they receive excellent information and guidance, get high quality education that prepares them for the future and by protecting their interests. More information can be found at the OfS website .

You can find regulations and policies relating to student life at The University of Manchester, including our Degree Regulations and Complaints Procedure, on our regulations website .

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Philosophy PhD

Key information.

• 4th  in the UK for our research impact in Philosophy   in  REF 2021   (Times Higher Education)

We're proud of our excellent research and high-quality supervision in a broad range of subjects and a variety of traditions. During your PhD, you’ll work in a friendly, open-minded and inclusive environment. You’ll:

• be part of a lively department with a diverse postgraduate community
• work with academics who are breaking new ground in their respective fields of research
• attend our weekly Philosophy Colloquium, workshops, student-led conferences and discussion groups.

Your research project will culminate in a (roughly) 80,000-word thesis. You can choose to work with more than one supervisor and – if your project demands it – one of your supervisors can be from another department.

You have the opportunity to audit postgraduate taught modules in Philosophy and other disciplines. You may also be able to gain teaching experience from your second year of study.

Areas of study

The Department hosts the Centre for Social and Political Thought . There are opportunities to work with specialists in political thought. This includes experts not only from Philosophy but from other disciplines such as Sociology, Politics and History. We also have strong ties with Informatics and Cognitive Science. Applications at the intersection of Philosophy and these disciplines are very welcome.

You’ll work with academics who are experts at the forefront of their subjects. Our research expertise includes:

continental, post-Kantian philosophy; phenomenology, existentialism; with strong specialism in figures such as Heidegger, Husserl, Blanchot, Merleau-Ponty, Levinas, and also in continental approaches to ancient philosophy (especially Plato)

epistemology

ethics; philosophy of normativity broadly construed, including the normativity of epistemology, logic and meaning

feminist philosophy; sex and gender

Islamic philosophy

philosophy of language; externalism and internalism; conceptual engineering, semantics (expressivism, relativism, contextualism)

philosophy of logic; the history of early analytic philosophy (especially Lewis Carroll, Frege and Russell)

philosophy of mind and cognitive science; embodied cognition

political philosophy with strong specialism in figures such as Hegel, Marks and Rawls; Marxism and critical theory, especially the Frankfurt School.

We understand that deciding where and what to study is a very important decision. We’ll make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the courses, services and facilities described in this prospectus. However, if we need to make material changes, for example due to government or regulatory requirements, or unanticipated staff changes, we’ll let you know as soon as possible.

Masters and P h D events

Meet us on campus or online

Book your place

Entry requirements

• UK requirements
• International requirements

Please select your country from the list.

Philippines

Saudi Arabia

South Africa

South Korea

Switzerland

United Arab Emirates

My country is not listed

If your country is not listed, you need to contact us and find out the qualification level you should have for this course. Contact us

English language requirements

Ielts (academic).

High level (6.5 overall, including at least 6.0 in each component).

IELTS scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course.  Find out more about IELTS

We accept IELTS One Skills Retake.

We do not accept IELTS Online.

Check full details of our English Language requirements and find out more about some of the alternative English language qualifications listed below

Alternative English language qualifications

Proficiency tests, cambridge advanced certificate in english (cae).

169 overall, including at least 162 in each skill.

We would normally expect the CAE test to have been taken within two years before the start of your course.

You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Find out more about Cambridge English: Advanced

Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)

We would normally expect the CPE test to have been taken within two years before the start of your course.

You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Find out more about Cambridge English: Proficiency

LanguageCert Academic SELT

High level (70 overall, including at least 65 in each component).

LanguageCert Academic SELT scores are valid for two years from the test date. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course.  Find out more about LanguageCert Academic SELT

We only accept LanguageCert when taken at SELT Test Centres.

We do not accept the online version.  We also do not accept the non-SELT version.

LanguageCert International ESOL SELT

High level (International ESOL SELT B2 with a minimum of 39 in each component)

LanguageCert International ESOL scores are valid for two years from the test date. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about LanguageCert SELT

We only accept LanguageCert when taken at SELT Test Centres. We do not accept the online version.

Pearson PTE Academic

High level (62 overall, including at least 59 in all four skills)

PTE (Academic) scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about Pearson (PTE Academic)

We do not accept the PTE Academic Online test.

TOEFL (iBT)

High level 88 overall, including at least 20 Listening, 19 in Reading, 21 in Speaking, 23 in Writing.

TOEFL (iBT) scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about TOEFL (iBT)

We do not accept TOEFL (iBT) Home Edition.

The TOEFL Institution Code for the University of Sussex is 9166.

English language qualifications

As/a-level (gce).

Grade C or above in English Language.

Hong Kong Advanced Level Examination (HKALE)/ AS or A Level: grade C or above in Use of English.

GCE O-level

Grade C or above in English.

Brunei/Cambridge GCE O-level in English: grades 1-6.

Singapore/Cambridge GCE O-level in English: grades 1-6.

GCSE or IGCSE

Grade C or above in English as a First Language (Grade 4 or above in GCSE from 2017).

Grade B or above in English as a Second Language.

Ghana Senior Secondary School Certificate

If awarded before 1993: grades 1-6 in English language.

If awarded between 1993 and 2005: grades A-D in English language.

Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)

 Level 4, including at least 3 in each component in English Language.

Indian School Certificate (Standard XII)

The Indian School Certificate is accepted at the grades below when awarded by the following examination boards:

Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) – English Core only: 70%

Council for Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) - English: 70% 

International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB)

English A or English B at grade 5 or above.

Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education

Grades A - C in English language

Malaysian Certificate of Education (SPM) 1119/GCE O-level

If taken before the end of 2008: grades 1-6 in English Language.

If taken from 2009 onwards: grade C or above in English Language.

The qualification must be jointly awarded by the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES).

West African Senior School Certificate

Grades A1-C6 (1-6) in English language when awarded by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) or the National Examinations Council (NECO).

Country exceptions

Select to see the list of exempt english-speaking countries.

If you are a national of one of the countries below, or if you have recently completed a qualification equivalent to a UK Bachelors degree or higher in one of these countries, you will normally meet our English requirement. Note that qualifications obtained by distance learning or awarded by studying outside these countries cannot be accepted for English language purposes.

You will normally be expected to have completed the qualification within two years before starting your course at Sussex. If the qualification was obtained earlier than this, we would expect you to be able to demonstrate that you have maintained a good level of English, for example by living in an English-speaking country or working in an occupation that required you to use English regularly and to a high level.

Please note that this list is determined by the UK’s Home Office, not by the University of Sussex.

List of exempt countries: 

• Antigua and Barbuda
• New Zealand
• St Kitts and Nevis
• St Vincent and the Grenadines
• The British Overseas Territories
• Trinidad and Tobago
• United Kingdom

** Canada: you must be a national of Canada; other nationals not on this list who have a degree from a Canadian institution will not normally be exempt from needing to provide evidence of English.

English language support

If you don’t meet the English language requirements for your degree, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course

• Visas and immigration

Admissions information for applicants

If your qualifications aren’t listed or you have a question about entry requirements, contact us

• How to apply

If you’d like to join us as a research student, there are two main routes:

• browse funded projects in this subject area
• browse our potential supervisors and propose your own research project.

Find out how to apply for a PhD at Sussex

Full-time/part-time study and distance learning

Choose to work on your research full time or part time, or via distance learning, to fit around your work and personal life.   For details ,  contact us at  [email protected]

PhD or MPhil?

You can choose to study for a PhD or an MPhil. PhD and MPhil degrees differ in duration and in the extent of your research work.

• For a PhD, your research work makes a substantial original contribution to knowledge or understanding in your chosen field.
• For an MPhil, your work is an independent piece of research but in less depth than for a PhD. You’ll graduate with the degree title Master of Philosophy. You might be able to change to a PhD while you study for an MPhil.

Our supervisors

Dr Corine Besson

Senior Lecturer In Philosophy

[email protected]

View profile of Corine Besson

Prof Anthony Booth

Professor in Philosophy

[email protected]

View profile of Anthony Booth

Prof Andy Clark

Professor in Cognitive Philosophy

[email protected]

View profile of Andy Clark

Dr Robb Dunphy

Lecturer in Philosophy

[email protected]

View profile of Robb Dunphy

Prof Gordon Finlayson

Professor of Social and Political Philosophy

[email protected]

View profile of Gordon Finlayson

Dr Daniel Molto

[email protected]

View profile of Daniel Molto

Prof Mahon O'Brien

Professor of Philosophy

[email protected]

View profile of Mahon O'Brien

Prof Sarah Sawyer

[email protected]

View profile of Sarah Sawyer

Prof Tanja Staehler

Professor in European Philosophy

[email protected]

View profile of Tanja Staehler

Dr Robyn Waller

[email protected]

View profile of Robyn Waller

Dr Daniel Williams

[email protected]

View profile of Daniel Williams

Funding and fees

How can i fund my course, funded projects and scholarships.

Our aim is to ensure that every student who wants to study with us is able to despite financial barriers, so that we continue to attract talented and unique individuals. Don’t miss out on scholarships – check the specific application deadlines for funding opportunities. Note that funded projects aren’t available for all our PhDs.

£3,000 scholarships available to environmental influencers bringing about real-world behaviour change

Find out more

£800 scholarship available to reward talented organ player studying on any course at Sussex.

Scholarships of £800 are available to reward talented musicians studying on any course at Sussex

Cash scholarships available for students who have demonstrated sporting excellence

University of Sussex Stuart Hall Doctoral Scholarship

Applying for USA Federal Student Aid?

If any part of your funding, at any time, is through USA federal Direct Loan funds, you will be registered on a separate version of this degree which does not include the possibility of distance learning which is prohibited under USA federal regulations. Find out more about American Student Loans and Federal Student Aid .

Part-time work

We advertise around 2,500 part-time jobs a year so you can make money and gain work experience. We have a special scheme to employ students on campus, wherever possible.

Find out more about careers and employability

How much does it cost?

Fees for self-funding students.

Home students: £4,786 per year for full-time students

Channel Islands and Isle of Man students: £4,786 per year for full-time students

International students: £21,500 per year for full-time students

Home PhD student fees are set at the level recommended by United Kingdom Research and Innovation (UKRI) annually, rising in line with inflation. Overseas fees are subject to an annual increase - see details on our tuition fees page

Additional costs

Note about additional costs.

Please note that all costs are best estimates based on current market values. Activities may be subject to unavoidable change in response to Government advice. We’ll let you know at the earliest opportunity. We review estimates every year and they may vary with inflation. Find out how to budget for student life .

Empirical research costs

On top of your PhD fees and living costs, you may also need to cover some research and training costs, relevant to your research project. These costs will depend on your research topic and training needs, but may include: - travel (to archives, collections or scientific facilities) - a laptop - overseas fieldwork costs (travel and accommodation, and language training) - conference costs (travel, registration fees and accommodation) - laboratory consumables and workshop materials - participant costs - transcription or translation costs - open-access publication costs. If you have a scholarship from one of the UK Research Councils, your scholarship should cover these types of costs. You'll receive details of how to claim this additional funding. If you're self funded, or if your scholarship doesn’t cover these costs, check with the Research and Enterprise Co-ordinator in your School for details of School or Doctoral School funding that may be available.

• Living costs

Find out typical living costs for studying at Sussex

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Course closed:

Philosophy is no longer accepting new applications.

The PhD course offers close supervision and extensive training, and is the standard entrance to the academic profession. The Faculty welcomes applications for this degree in a wide range of philosophical areas. The PhD culminates in the production of a thesis of up to 80,000 words, to be submitted between three and four years from the commencement of study for full-time study.  The PhD may also be done part-time, in which case the deadline for completion will be a minimum of five and a maximum of seven years. An oral examination will be conducted on the subject of the thesis and on the general field of knowledge within which it falls.

The PhD degree is awarded for an extended thesis which makes a substantial original contribution to learning.

Candidates currently studying for the MPhil  in Philosophy are welcome to apply while at Cambridge to continue to the PhD. Such applications are considered alongside external applications.

The Postgraduate Virtual Open Day usually takes place at the end of October. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions to admissions staff and academics, explore the Colleges virtually, and to find out more about courses, the application process and funding opportunities. Visit the  Postgraduate Open Day  page for more details.

See further the  Postgraduate Admissions Events  pages for other events relating to Postgraduate study, including study fairs, visits and international events.

The Faculty will hold an offer holders' event in March 2024 for PhD and MPhil offer holders (by invitation).

Key Information

3-4 years full-time, 4-7 years part-time, study mode : research, doctor of philosophy, faculty of philosophy, course - related enquiries, application - related enquiries, course on department website, dates and deadlines:, michaelmas 2024 (closed).

Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.

Funding Deadlines

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas 2024, Lent 2025 and Easter 2025.

Similar Courses

• Philosophy MPhil
• Philosophy PGCert
• AI Ethics and Society MSt
• Ethics of AI, Data and Algorithms MPhil

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Doctor of philosophy - mphil / phd.

Many of our students are eligible for a Postgraduate Loan of over £10,000.

Entry requirements

You will be required to have:

• a good honours degree from a UK university or equivalent (first or upper-second class), although applicants will usually tend to have obtained a master's degree before entry

Candidates with other qualifications are considered on their merits.

As a part of the application process, you are required to submit a research proposal outlining how you intend to investigate your topic of interest. In the proposal, you will need to clearly state your research questions, aims and objectives, as well as your review of the literature on the topic and the corresponding research design. The document needs to specify what your original contribution to the knowledge will be. You can find more information about the structure and content of the research proposal . Please note that your application cannot be processed without the proposal and you will be able to upload it, once you click 'Apply now' and start the application process.

The University only offers supervision to candidates if there is adequate available supervisory expertise in the area of the research project.

Accreditation of Prior Learning

Any university-level qualifications or relevant experience you gain prior to starting university could count towards your course at London Met. Find out more about applying for Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) .

English language requirements

To study a degree at London Met, you must be able to demonstrate proficiency in the English language. If you require a Student visa (previously Tier 4) you may need to provide the results of a Secure English Language Test (SELT) such as Academic IELTS. This course requires you to meet our standard requirements .

If you need (or wish) to improve your English before starting your degree, the University offers a Pre-sessional Academic English course to help you build your confidence and reach the level of English you require.

Modular structure

We have PhD students in all our Schools: the School of Art, Architecture and Design; Guildhall School of Business and Law; the School of Computing and Digital Media, the School of Human Sciences, the School of Social Professions and the School of Social Sciences.

Each PhD project is unique, and yours will be fine-tuned in consultation with the two supervisors dedicated to your research. Recent research areas include:

• Gujarati women in London learning English
• Putting the Syrian “Spring” in context
• Occupational stress in Malta
• Counter-terrorism in the UK
• The Left in West Germany
• The experiences of counselling trainees
• Childhood malnutrition in Khartoum
• Depression among black and ethnic minority men
• Smartphones and machine learning
• Managers and self-directed learning
• Leadership development in the hotel industry

This is in addition to many others across all schools and disciplines.

PhD study is self-directed. Students are allocated a supervisory team composed of a lead supervisor and at least one other supervisor. These are allocated on the basis of the candidate's application, research topic and interview. We only offer supervision to candidates when we have adequate available supervisory expertise.

What our students say

"The supervisory team was excellent - they had first rate knowledge and research expertise, were highly supportive and always willing to help. I thoroughly enjoyed my time at London Met and would recommend studying here for a doctorate."

Dr Deborah Butcher

Where this course can take you

Many people with an PhD become lecturers, teachers or researchers, but these are by no means the only destinations.

Depending on your discipline, you may go into industry (this is frequently the case for graduates in biological or computer science), the City (business and law graduates), public sector management and/or policy-making (social science and business graduates), international governmental organisations (social science and business graduates), the social professions or non-governmental organisations.

Many of our graduates are mid-career and use their degree for career enhancement in areas such as social services, education, counselling, health and social care, or diplomacy.

Distance learning

There is a distance learning option available. 

PhD by prior publication/output

The University will award the degrees of Master of Philosophy (MPhil) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) to registered students who successfully complete approved programmes. All proposed research programmes will be considered for research degree registration on their academic merits.

A PhD by prior output allows students who don't have traditional qualifications but have produced research and developed their knowledge to a doctoral level to gain academic recognition.

The publications of the student must be accessible to scholars or other interested persons. The work submitted must have been subjected to peer review by the relevant academic community and also provide evidence of an independent, original and significant contribution to knowledge and critical judgement. All work should have been published in the last 10 years and be traceable in publicly available databases, catalogues etc.

Programmes of research may be proposed in any field of study, as long as the proposed programme is capable of leading to scholarly research. The written thesis may be supplemented by material other than written form, if special provision has been made and agreed.

What is the difference between the MPhil and PhD?

Research students at London Met can work towards a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). To obtain a PhD you’re expected to investigate a topic and make an original contribution to knowledge. At MPhil level, your research should represent an extension of existing knowledge, although the demands of originality and sustained enquiry are less than those required for a PhD.

Additional costs

Please note, in addition to the tuition fee there may be additional costs for things like equipment, materials, printing, textbooks, trips, fieldwork, specialist conferences or professional body fees.

Additionally, there may be other activities that are not formally part of your course and not required to complete your course, but which you may find helpful (for example, optional field trips). The costs of these are additional to your tuition fee and the fees set out above and will be notified when the activity is being arranged.

Important information for international applicants

Due to unprecedented demand for our courses for the autumn 2023 intake, international admissions are now closed for this course. Any future intakes that are already open to applications can be found in the fees and key information section of this course page. If no future intakes are available, please check back at a later date.

How to apply

Use the apply button to begin your application.

If you require a Student visa and wish to study a postgraduate course on a part-time basis, please read our how to apply information for international students to ensure you have all the details you need about the application process.

When to apply

September entry:

• Application deadline: 1 July (international applicants)
• Application deadline: 1 August (home applicants)

January entry:

• Application deadline: 1 November (international applicants)
• Application deadline: 1 December (home applicants)

Apply for this course

Please select when you would like to start:

Our research centres

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

The Doctor of Philosophy programme aims to foster the development of independent research skills. It is normally a three-year (full time) or six-year (part time) research-only degree and will include a proportion of research training, the exact amount of which will depend on your chosen department.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) with Integrated Study

This is a four-year doctorate combining the traditional research degree with taught modules, developing professional skills and subject specific knowledge.

Professional Doctorates (ClinPsyD, EdD, ThD, EdPsychD, SocSciD, ForenPsyD, HScD, HScD(Clin), DPT, AppEd and ChildPsyD)

Normally spread over a period of three years, programmes comprise research-related work and subject-focused taught courses, and/or professional practice with research. You are assessed by a combination of written examinations and/or project report(s), a dissertation or a thesis. No more than one third of the programme will consist of taught modules.

Definitions

• Doctor of Clinical Psychology ClinPsyD
• Doctor of Education EdD
• Doctor of Theology ThD
• Doctor of Educational Psychology EdPsychD
• Doctor of Social Science SocSciD
• Doctor of Forensic Psychology Practice ForenPsyD
• Doctor in Health Sciences HScD
• Doctor in Health Sciences (Clinical) HScD(Clin)
• Doctor of Practical Theology DPT
• Doctor of Applied Educational and Child Psychology ApEd and ChildPsyD

Doctor of Engineering (EngD)

This is normally a four-year programme which integrates research with taught postgraduate work. You must produce a thesis which makes an original contribution to knowledge, worthy of publication, in whole or in part, in a learned journal.

Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)

This is a part-time programme, normally of two year's duration, which may include taught postgraduate work. You must produce a thesis which makes an original contribution to knowledge, worthy of publication, in whole or in part, in a learned journal or equivalent.

Doctor of Medicine (MD)

A part-time programme, normally of two year's duration, which may include taught postgraduate work. You must produce a thesis which makes an original contribution to knowledge, worthy of publication, in whole or in part, in a learned journal.

Thesis  – A thesis is a piece of original written work submitted by a student in support of candidature for their chosen degree. A thesis will present the students research and findings in a single cohesive document.

Taught module  – A taught module is a section of learning which forms part of the whole of your degree qualification. All degrees with taught elements are divided into modules each of which needs to be passed to achieve overall qualification.

Learned journal  – A learned journal is a peer-reviewed academic journal which relates to a single particular area of academic research. Learned journals are one of the main places where original research is initially published.

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

What is a phd.

A PhD is a Doctorate of Philosophy, a prestigious qualification which is the highest level of degree that a student can achieve, demonstrating talent, academic excellence and a thirst for knowledge. In a modern knowledge-based economy, highly educated and skilled people such as doctoral graduates, are in great demand. They form the most highly educated and skilled group in the UK and internationally. Many will go on to use their skills within academia or in research-intensive occupations in industry. However, there will be others who will draw on their research background and the skills gained through a doctoral degree in a wide variety of other occupations. Examples of the type of employment opportunities taken up by PhD holders can be found at Vitae: researcher careers .

What will I get from a PhD?

You will get a huge sense of personal achievement. Our doctoral training programme will help you develop transferable skills that will be invaluable in your subsequent career. The research techniques and methodologies you master will enable you to make a direct contribution to the advancement of knowledge in your particular subject area.

Successful candidates are awarded the degree of Doctor of Philosophy and are permitted to use the title ‘Dr’.

How does it work?

The maximum registration for a PhD programme is four years with full-time study, or eight years with part-time study.

All PhD students are initially registered for a Master of Philosophy (MPhil), and the PhD registration is confirmed after the successful completion of an upgrade assessment (at the end of year 1 for full-time students and year 2 for part-time study). You will be registered for a PhD when you pass this upgrade. Your academic progress will be monitored throughout your degree studies, via formal progress reports and regular meetings with your supervisors.

You complete a body of primary, novel research and submit a doctoral thesis of up to 100,000 words, which you then defend via an oral examination (the viva) to the satisfaction of the examiners. Your thesis must meet the expectations specified in the Quality Code .

Entry requirements

Entry requirements vary according to the research topic and/or specific studentships. The normal minimum entrance requirement is an upper second class honours degree or masters degree, relevant to the proposed area of study, from a recognised higher education institution in the UK or other recognised degree-awarding body. The comparability of qualifications from outside the UK with The Open University requirements will be determined through reference to UK ENIC .

The research topic pages (within research areas ) give details of specific entry requirements, and provide contact details to discuss your suitability for the PhD.

English language proficiency

To study with us, you will need to have a good command of English. If your first language is not English, you will need to demonstrate your competence in the English Language in all four elements (reading, writing, listening and speaking). The University requires a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any of the four categories (or approved equivalent). If you are an overseas student, you must have your level of proficiency certified through a provider approved by UK Visas and Immigration and provide your certificate and grade with your application.

Application closing dates

Entry may be permitted for direct registration with The Open University at the following points of year: October and February. This ensures that students benefit from development and training in peer groups. For further information on how to apply, see our Application process section. Application deadlines may differ between research topics and studentships; full details of topic application period is detailed in the topic page (within research areas ).

PhD student, Hannah Sargeant. Her research is focussed on water production from Moon rocks as part of the ProSPA instrument that will be flown to the Moon in 2025.

My PhD journey so far has been a wonderful learning experience that made me reflect upon my beliefs and stretch my thinking.

The sweetest thing about the PhD is that you’ve worked hard for it. It is an opportunity to make an original contribution to an academic area I have always found fascinating.

Your questions

For advice about applying for a research degree, or sponsoring a research student, email the Graduate School or call +44 (0)1908 653806.

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Philosophy PhD

• Full-time: Three years
• Part-time: Up to six years
• Start date: Multiple available
• UK fees: £5,100
• International fees: £21,500

Research overview

We're one of the leading philosophy research communities in the UK and welcome applications from enthusiastic and committed PhD students.

• experienced and expert supervision
• internationally recognised research publishing
• a highly inclusive and supportive environment

Our research strengths

We're active across a mixture of established and emerging areas. Particular strengths include:

• Applied, Feminist and Social Philosophy
• Metaphysics and Mind
• Logic and Language
• Philosophy of Science
• History of Philosophy
• Philosophy of Religion
• Epistemology
• Moral Philosophy
• Political and Legal Philosophy

This list is not exhaustive. Contact us to discuss your particular interests.

Current staff research and expertise

Get a feel for our current work – see our active staff research projects or find an expert in your area of philosophy.

We host to two active research groups that you are encouraged to get involved with:

• Nottingham Centre for Social Philosophy
• Political Epistemology Network

We also have seven active research clusters :

• Philosophy Without Borders
• Gender, Sex, Race and Social Identity
• Recreation, Play and Games
• South and East Asian Philosophy
• Science and Metaphysics
• Normative Philosophy
• Mind, Psychology and Mental Health

Current PhD research

Our current PhD students are exploring a diverse range of issues including:

• homelessness
• moral responsibility
• philosophy of action
• medical ethics
• the nature of perception
• the philosophy of time
• social epistemology
• microaggressions
• environmental ethics
• health and trust

Recently completed theses

• Hume’s moral sentiments and Humean moral aliefs - James Chamberlain
• Physical disability and well-being - Thomas Crawley
• Humean revisions to the best system account of lawhood - Mike Hughes
• Normativity and ethics: the error in the error theory - Kipros Lofitis
• Dispositionalism: a study on properties - Andrea Raimondi
• Weakness of will and its connection with practical reasons - Samaneh Keshavarz

Your department

• Department of Philosophy website
• Ranked 11th in the UK for our research outputs in the Research Excellence Framework 2021

"I think that philosophy often forces us to slow our thinking down much more than we are used to doing in our everyday lives. That can be hard, but I also think that this is part of successful work in many academic disciplines as well as in other pursuits." Dr Lina Jansson

Course content

You will complete a written thesis of around 80,000 words, with expert support and advice from your academic supervisors.

You will also take a verbal examination called a viva voce where you explain your project in depth to an examination panel.

Entry requirements

All candidates are considered on an individual basis and we accept a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements below apply to 2024 entry.

Meeting our English language requirements

If you need support to meet the required level, you may be able to attend a presessional English course. Presessional courses teach you academic skills in addition to English language. Our  Centre for English Language Education is accredited by the British Council for the teaching of English in the UK.

If you successfully complete your presessional course to the required level, you can then progress to your degree course. This means that you won't need to retake IELTS or equivalent.

For on-campus presessional English courses, you must take IELTS for UKVI to meet visa regulations. For online presessional courses, see our CELE webpages for guidance.

Visa restrictions

International students must have valid UK immigration permissions for any courses or study period where teaching takes place in the UK. Student route visas can be issued for eligible students studying full-time courses. The University of Nottingham does not sponsor a student visa for students studying part-time courses. The Standard Visitor visa route is not appropriate in all cases. Please contact the university’s Visa and Immigration team if you need advice about your visa options.

We recognise that applicants have a variety of experiences and follow different pathways to postgraduate study.

We treat all applicants with alternative qualifications on an individual basis. We may also consider relevant work experience.

If you are unsure whether your qualifications or work experience are relevant, contact us .

Supervisors

You will have a minimum of two supervisors who will offer expert guidance, support and feedback throughout your research.

If appropriate researchers can also have supervisors from outside the Department of Philosophy.

You're encouraged to identify and contact a potential supervisor before submitting an application.

If you are unsure of how your research interests might fit into our research areas, contact the postgraduate admissions tutor Dr Zachary Hoskins who'll be happy to help.

Our step-by-step guide contains everything you need to know about applying for postgraduate research.

Additional information for international students

If you are a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland, you may be asked to complete a fee status questionnaire and your answers will be assessed using guidance issued by the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) .

These fees are for full-time study. If you are studying part-time, you will be charged a proportion of this fee each year (subject to inflation).

Midlands4Cities Doctoral Training Programme

Midlands4Cities (M4C) PhD students benefit from a high quality package of:

• enhanced support and training
• expert supervision
• excellent networking opportunities

You must apply for a place at Nottingham before submitting your M4C application.

Possible sources of funding include:

• Society for Applied Philosophy
• The Royal Institute of Philosophy

There are many ways to fund your research degree, from scholarships to government loans.

Check our guide to find out more about funding your postgraduate degree.

You can expect to be made to feel at home in a department with a strong and supportive research culture.

Weekly research seminar

Involves both members of the department and outside speakers. Speakers have included:

• Helen Beebee
• Jeff McMahan
• Antony Duff
• Katherine Hawley
• Brad Hooker
• Helen Yetter-Chappell

If you would like more information about our seminars or would like to attend, please visit our seminars page for more information.

More details about upcoming and past speakers are on our department website.

Postgraduate seminars

Run by postgraduate students this allows you to present your ongoing research in a constructive and supportive atmosphere.

"As chair of the Postgraduate Research Seminar it's been great to not only listen to my peers deliver their research, but to watch as their work constantly evolves and develops and on a weekly basis. The Postgraduate Research Seminar, and the friendly and inclusive environment we've created, is without doubt one of the best parts of doing my philosophy PhD at Nottingham." Taylor Matthews, PhD student

Open door policy

You are very welcome to drop in and discuss your current work with any available member of staff.

Workshops, conferences, and reading groups

These often run in the department, and postgraduate students are encouraged to participate. For current details see the  Department of Philosophy website .

Publishing support

We actively encourage postgraduate students to be published in major journals. Recent postgrad articles have appeared in:

• Australasian Journal of Philosophy
• Philosophical Studies
• Oxford Studies in Metaphysics

A publication record equips you well for the philosophy job market. It also provides evidence of commitment and excellence for those considering career routes outside of academia.

Midlands4Cities students

If you are funded through the  Midlands4Cities Doctoral Training Partnership  you will complete a portfolio of research training, devised in consultation with your supervisors and Head of Postgraduate Studies.

Language learning

You can make full use of the  Language Centre  facilities for both research-specific learning and personal interest.

Researcher training and development

The Researcher Academy is the network for researchers, and staff who support them. We work together to promote a healthy research culture, to cultivate researcher excellence, and develop creative partnerships that enable researchers to flourish.

Postgraduate researchers at Nottingham have access to our online Members’ area, which includes a wealth of resources, access to training courses and award-winning postgraduate placements.

Graduate centres

Our graduate centres are dedicated community spaces on campus for postgraduates.

Each space has areas for:

• socialising
• computer work
• kitchen facilities

Student support

You will have access to a range of support services , including:

• academic and disability support
• childcare services
• counselling service
• faith support
• financial support
• mental health and wellbeing support
• visa and immigration advice
• welfare support

Students' Union

Our Students' Union represents all students. You can join the Postgraduate Students’ Network or contact the dedicated Postgraduate Officer .

There are also a range of support networks, including groups for:

• international students
• black and minority ethnic students
• students who identify as women
• students with disabilities
• LGBT+ students

SU Advice provides free, independent and confidential advice on issues such as accommodation, financial and academic difficulties.

Where you will learn

Digital transformations hub.

As a researcher you have full access to the  Digital Transformations Hub  and can use our equipment and software for free.

University Park Campus

University Park Campus  covers 300 acres, with green spaces, wildlife, period buildings and modern facilities. It is one of the UK's most beautiful and sustainable campuses, winning a national Green Flag award every year since 2003.

Most schools and departments are based here. You will have access to libraries, shops, cafes, the Students’ Union, sports village and a health centre.

You can walk or cycle around campus. Free hopper buses connect you to our other campuses. Nottingham city centre is 15 minutes away by public bus or tram.

University-wide facilities

Technology:   MyNottingham app ; full campus wi-fi; personal  laptop repair;  online, face-to-face and telephone  support.  

Libraries: extensive print and online resources;  24/7 opening;  study support;   laptop loans;   assistive technology

Manuscripts and Special Collections: rare and specialised documents, books, photos and posters  used for teaching and research. Collections include Soviet War posters, DH Lawrence, rare medical records and much, much more!

The Language Centre

We offer nine languages at a wide range of levels as taught options .

Alternatively, learn at your own pace in our  Self-Access Centre .

Whether you are considering a career in academia, industry or haven't yet decided, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Expert staff will work with you to explore PhD career options and apply for vacancies, develop your interview skills and meet employers. You can book a one-to-one appointment, take an online course or attend a workshop.

International students who complete an eligible degree programme in the UK on a student visa can apply to stay and work in the UK after their course under the Graduate immigration route . Eligible courses at the University of Nottingham include bachelors, masters and research degrees, and PGCE courses.

Philosophy doesn’t lead to a single specific career - it leads into a huge range of professions!

Our graduates go on to many different sectors including:

• business and finance
• commercial, industrial and public sector management and marketing
• sales and advertising
• academic research

"I have found that as I grow and mature my background in Philosophy serves me more and more. I know where to look when I need help dealing with the human condition, both in and out of the office."

Andrew Schafer, MPhil Philosophy 2009, now Product Specialist at Cloudflare

The average annual salary for postgraduates from the School of Humanities was £25,563*

*HESA Graduate Outcomes 2020. The Graduate Outcomes % is derived using The Guardian University Guide methodology. The average annual salary is based on graduates working full-time within the UK.

Related courses

Philosophy ma, theology and religious studies phd, systematic and philosophical theology by distance learning ma/pgdip, research excellence framework.

The University of Nottingham is ranked 7th in the UK for research power, according to analysis by Times Higher Education. The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is a national assessment of the quality of research in UK higher education institutions.

• 11th in the UK for our research outputs
• Over 80% of our publications recognised as internationally excellent
• 90%* of our research is classed as 'world-leading' (4*) or 'internationally excellent' (3*)
• 100%* of our research is recognised internationally
• 51% of our research is assessed as 'world-leading' (4*) for its impact**

*According to analysis by Times Higher Education ** According to our own analysis.

This content was last updated on 24 October 2023 . Every effort has been made to ensure that this information is accurate, but changes are likely to occur between the date of publishing and course start date. It is therefore very important to check this website for any updates before you apply.

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Course type

Qualification, university name, phd degrees in philosophy.

56 degrees at 46 universities in the UK.

Customise your search

Select the start date, qualification, and how you want to study

Related subjects:

• PhD Philosophy
• PhD Epistemology
• PhD History of Philosophy
• PhD Moral Philosophy
• PhD Philosophical Logic
• PhD Philosophical Method
• PhD Philosophy Theory
• PhD Social Ethics
• PhD Social Philosophy

• Course title (A-Z)
• Course title (Z-A)
• Price: high - low
• Price: low - high

PhD Postgraduate Research in Philosophy

University of east anglia uea.

We are a top tier, research-led university and are committed to making a substantial impact on the global challenges facing society. Our Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £4,712 per year (UK)
• 6 years Part time degree: £2,356 per year (UK)

Philosophy PhD

Anglia ruskin university.

This course is in the School of Humanities and Social Sciences. Our PhD research programmes will allow you to explore your interests in Read more...

• 2 years Full time degree: £4,786 per year (UK)
• 2.5 years Full time degree: £4,786 per year (UK)
• 3 years Part time degree: £2,392 per year (UK)
• 3.5 years Part time degree: £2,392 per year (UK)

PhD in Religions and Philosophies

Soas university of london.

The SOAS Religions and Philosophies Department offers a vibrant, stimulating, and interdisciplinary research environment. We provide Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £4,860 per year (UK)
• 6 years Part time degree: £2,430 per year (UK)

Human Sciences, MPhil/PhD

Faculty of education, health and human sciences, university of greenwich.

Our doctoral programme in Human Sciences allows you to conduct cutting-edge research in fields including Psychology, Social Work, Public Read more...

• 4 years Part time degree: £2,356 per year (UK)

Royal Holloway, University of London

About us The Philosophy programme at Royal Holloway offers a broad range of research supervision, with academic staff working both the Read more...

• 4 years Full time degree: £4,786 per year (UK)

Birkbeck, University of London

An PhD is an advanced postgraduate research degree that requires original research and the submission of a substantial dissertation of Read more...

• 4 years Full time degree
• 7 years Part time degree

University of Essex

For our PhD in Philosophy, we offer supervision in a wide range of fields including continental philosophy, history of philosophy, social Read more...

• 7 years Part time degree: £2,393 per year (UK)

University of Glasgow

Philosophy at the University of Glasgow is thriving. Our vibrant research environment includes an active community of postgraduate students Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £4,786 per year (UK)
• 5 years Part time degree: £2,393 per year (UK)

University of Hull

About our programmes Philosophy research at Hull covers an unusually rich variety of areas, ranging from Plato and Nietzsche, through to Read more...

Sociology PhD, MPhil - Citizenship, Migration and Identity

University of leicester.

The School of Media, Communication and Sociology offers supervision for the degrees of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) - full-time and Read more...

• 6 years Distance without attendance degree: £3,942 per year (UK)
• 6 years Part time degree: £2,393 per year (UK)

Philosophy MPhil, PhD

Newcastle university.

We have teaching staff with strong research profiles in modern European philosophy. They have an interest in interdisciplinary research Read more...

• 36 months Full time degree: £4,712 per year (UK)
• 72 months Part time degree: £2,356 per year (UK)

University of Nottingham

We're one of the leading philosophy research communities in the UK and welcome applications from enthusiastic and committed PhD Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £5,100 per year (UK)
• 6 years Part time degree

Philosophy and Religion PhD

Bangor university.

The aim of the MPhil degree is that you will have gained substantial specialist knowledge of a particular discipline and/or historical Read more...

Political and Social Thought - PhD

University of kent.

The School of Politics and International Relations has a long tradition of high-quality research among its staff and students. Our vibrant Read more...

University of Wolverhampton

The School of Humanities offers a vibrant environment for MPhil/PhD students in philosophy, who will have the opportunity to work with Read more...

• 4 years Full time degree: £4,712 per year (UK)
• 8 years Part time degree: £2,356 per year (UK)

Philosophy MPhil/PhD

Ucl (university college london).

Our research is consistently ranked among the best in the country. The department has a lively and flourishing postgraduate community, and Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £6,035 per year (UK)
• 5 years Part time degree: £3,015 per year (UK)

MPhil/PhD in Philosophy

Manchester metropolitan university.

Discover your research degree study options, including areas of expertise for our academic supervisors. Our research degrees will help you Read more...

• 6 years Distance without attendance degree
• 3 years Distance without attendance degree
• 3 years Full time degree
• 6 years Part time degree: £4,786 per year (UK)

Philosophy, politics and ethics PhD

University of brighton.

The University of Brighton welcomes PhD research in philosophy, politics and ethics through its specialist research Centre for Applied Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £4,796 per year (UK)
• 7 years Part time degree: £2,398 per year (UK)

PhD Philosophy Research Programmes

University of southampton.

Join our researchers working on the history of philosophy, aesthetics, epistemology, ethics, and language, logic and Read more...

• 2 years Full time degree

Philosophy PhD (On-Campus or by Distance Learning)

University of birmingham.

By pursuing research in Philosophy at Birmingham, you will joining a vibrant and dynamic research community thanks to the Department’s Read more...

• 6 years Distance without attendance degree: £2,393 per year (UK)

1-20 of 56 courses

Course type:

• Distance learning PhD
• Full time PhD
• Part time PhD

Qualification:

Universities:.

• Brighton and Sussex Medical School
• University of Warwick
• Durham University
• Cardiff University
• University of Buckingham
• The University of Edinburgh
• University of Reading
• King's College London, University of London
• University of Aberdeen
• University of Sussex
• London School of Economics and Political Science, University of London
• University of Lincoln
• University of Oxford
• Amity University [IN] London
• Keele University
• University of Manchester
• University of York
• University of Hertfordshire
• University of Cambridge
• Queen's University Belfast

Related Subjects:

• Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Cultures
• School of Philosophy, Religion and History of Science
• Research degrees

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

A PhD is an internationally-recognised research qualification. You can study for your PhD on-campus or by online learning.

Studying for your PhD in the School of Philosophy, Religion and History of Science means that you will undertake an extended, original research project allowing you to become an expert in your specialist area and gain high-quality research skills.

You’ll have regular meetings with your supervisors who will read your work and provide detailed feedback and advice. You’ll also develop an initial training plan to make sure you are acquiring the appropriate skills for your research and that your progress is monitored.

You will conduct original research work under the guidance of your supervisors. Your initial priority is to refine a research plan and establish a feasible timescale for your project. You may be required to shadow an MA Research Methods module as part of your training programme.

For the first 12 months (or 18 months if part-time) you’ll be enrolled as a provisional PhD student and you'll develop a detailed research proposal and write a literature review. This work will be submitted to a panel of examiners who will assess it and provide you with feedback and advice on the progress of your research.

This is called 'transfer' and is an important means of monitoring the progress of your work and assessing whether your proposal has enough weight to be accurately explored through a PhD research path.

After successful transfer, you will enrol as a full PhD student, complete your research and write a thesis of approximately 100,000 words.

The degree of Doctor of Philosophy is awarded on the basis of this thesis, and your viva voce, where you present and discuss the rationale, methods and findings of your original study with an examining panel.

A PhD can be taken full-time (3 years standard) or part-time (five years standard).

Areas of supervision

Research opportunities are available across the School of Philosophy, Religion and History of Science. Each specialism in the School has its own research areas , each of which has a successful and thriving research community.

Entry requirements

You should hold a good honours degree (upper second class or first class) in a related discipline, and hold, or expect to obtain, a Masters degree a related subject.

If English is not your first language, you will also need an English language qualification, for example IELTS 6.5 with at least 6.0 in all components.

You can improve your academic English level to the standard needed to study a postgraduate research degree by taking a pre-sessional course.

The online-learning PhD requires IELTS score of 7.0 overall, no less than 6.5 in every component.

Scholarships and fees

A range of  scholarships  are available for PhD students. 

Fees for PhD programmes  are set independently and reviewed on annual basis.

PhD by online learning

The School of Philosophy, Religion and History of Science also offers a PhD by online learning which is available to UK, EU and International applicants. PhD by online learning allows you to study at a time and place that suits you and with a part time option available, you'll have the flexibility to gain an advanced degree alongside work and other commitments.

The programme is aimed at suitably qualified Postgraduate Researcher candidates who need to study for most of their registration period at another site. There are a number of reasons why you may wish to base yourself away from the University of Leeds whilst undertaking your PhD which include the following:

Your research project requires substantial access to resources and facilities located at a different site

You have employment commitments relevant to your project that prevents you from being based in Leeds

Your PhD has been arranged as part of a specific partnership/sponsorship arrangement

For further information, please contact  Dr Pammi Sinha ,  Head of the Graduate School. 

Jim Baxter PhD Philosophy

I enjoyed being able to dedicate such a large amount of time to thinking deeply about a single question. Doing a PhD is pretty much the only way you can do that and it’s a real privilege. I also think there’s a lot to be said for doing a PhD part-time. It takes a long time, but it’s great to have something separate from work that you can dedicate time and attention to like that. 

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SUBJECT LEAGUE TABLE 2025

Philosophy involves the study of knowledge, truth and reason.  Our university rankings for Philosophy include Metaphysics and Epistemology.

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• London School of Economics and Poli... VIEW COURSES University of Cambridge VIEW COURSES University of Oxford VIEW COURSES University of St Andrews VIEW COURSES University of Warwick VIEW COURSES UCL (University College London) VIEW COURSES Durham University VIEW COURSES University of Exeter VIEW COURSES King's College London, University o... VIEW COURSES University of York VIEW COURSES University of Birmingham VIEW COURSES University of Manchester VIEW COURSES University of Bristol VIEW COURSES University of Southampton VIEW COURSES Newcastle University VIEW COURSES The University of Edinburgh VIEW COURSES SOAS University of London VIEW COURSES University of Sheffield VIEW COURSES University of East Anglia UEA VIEW COURSES University of Leeds VIEW COURSES Lancaster University VIEW COURSES University of Glasgow VIEW COURSES University of Nottingham VIEW COURSES Cardiff University VIEW COURSES University of Hull VIEW COURSES Royal Holloway, University of Londo... VIEW COURSES University of Sussex VIEW COURSES University of Essex VIEW COURSES University of Aberdeen VIEW COURSES Oxford Brookes University VIEW COURSES University of Reading VIEW COURSES GET PROSPECTUS University of Liverpool VIEW COURSES Bangor University VIEW COURSES University of Stirling VIEW COURSES University of Kent VIEW COURSES Queen's University Belfast VIEW COURSES Manchester Metropolitan University VIEW COURSES Keele University VIEW COURSES University of Winchester VIEW COURSES University of Hertfordshire VIEW COURSES University of Dundee VIEW COURSES University of Lincoln VIEW COURSES University of Roehampton VIEW COURSES Liverpool Hope University VIEW COURSES University of Gloucestershire VIEW COURSES Nottingham Trent University VIEW COURSES Bristol, University of the West of ... VIEW COURSES
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• 95% 92% 100% 99% 83% 89% 87% 80% 85% 71% 73% 76% 83% 65% 67% 84% 68% 72% 61% 74% 71% 88% 68% 63% n/a 65% 62% 63% 84% 51% 64% 67% 56% 77% 57% 77% 58% 54% 58% 52% 82% 54% 46% 51% 51% 55% 51%
• 80% n/a 79% 84% 80% 76% 74% 76% 77% 80% 78% 72% 74% 83% 80% 76% 75% 79% 75% 70% 79% 77% 76% 76% 86% 77% 75% 83% 87% 88% 76% 80% 84% 79% 78% 73% 80% 83% 81% 82% 73% 80% 79% 85% 83% 79% 85%
• 87% 83% 79% 82% 83% 87% 79% 79% 82% 87% 88% 84% 82% 85% 85% 80% 84% 80% 75% 77% 81% 83% 77% 88% 71% 68% 81% 80% 67% 70% 74% 78% 70% 75% 86% 75% 78% 58% 69% 74% 61% n/a 75% 68% 59% n/a 73%
• 92% 86% 92% 86% 86% 82% 88% 90% 78% 78% 82% 80% 82% 82% 78% 78% 80% 76% 88% 78% 74% 62% 76% 64% 66% 76% 72% 70% 72% 82% 72% 68% n/a 56% 66% 70% 64% 76% 66% 50% 76% 76% 64% 50% 60% 74% 46%

This table was first published on 14 May 2024. 

Read the  University and subject tables methodology  to find out where the data comes from, how the tables are compiled and explanations of the measures used. 

All measures used to compile the tables are available on the full table view. Maximum scores for the measures: 

Overall score: maximum score of 1000 

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Student satisfaction: maximum score of 4 

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Graduate prospects – outcomes: maximum score of 100 

Graduate prospects – on track: maximum score of 100 

The following institutions have courses in this subject but insufficient data to be included in the ranking:  

• - Anglia Ruskin University
• - Bath Spa University
• - Goldsmiths, University of London
• - Leeds Trinity University
• - Loughborough University
• - Swansea University
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We have 47 Philosophy PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships in the UK

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Philosophy PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships in the UK

Probable futures – probabilistic systems in law enforcement futures (reference: rdf24/ee/cis/montague, phd research project.

PhD Research Projects are advertised opportunities to examine a pre-defined topic or answer a stated research question. Some projects may also provide scope for you to propose your own ideas and approaches.

Funded PhD Project (UK Students Only)

This research project has funding attached. It is only available to UK citizens or those who have been resident in the UK for a period of 3 years or more. Some projects, which are funded by charities or by the universities themselves may have more stringent restrictions.

PROBabLE Futures – Probabilistic Systems in Law Enforcement Futures (Reference: RDF24/BL/LAW/OSWALD)

Perspectives on reality as processes and event - from heidegger to non-duality and beyond, self-funded phd students only.

This project does not have funding attached. You will need to have your own means of paying fees and living costs and / or seek separate funding from student finance, charities or trusts.

Beyond Representation: Painting as Embodied Practice

Truth and being laid bare: the use of nudity in philosophy, de montfort university phd scholarships, funded phd programme (uk students only).

Some or all of the PhD opportunities in this programme have funding attached. It is only available to UK citizens or those who have been resident in the UK for a period of 3 years or more. Some projects, which are funded by charities or by the universities themselves may have more stringent restrictions.

PhD Opportunities

PhD Opportunities highlight some of the specific PhD projects, programmes or other information currently available from a university.

Leverhulme Doctoral Programme for Regenerative Innovation (Regnr8-i): Re-Imagi(ni)ng Representations of Energy

Competition funded phd project (uk students only).

This research project is one of a number of projects at this institution. It is in competition for funding with one or more of these projects. Usually the project which receives the best applicant will be awarded the funding. The funding is only available to UK citizens or those who have been resident in the UK for a period of 3 years or more. Some projects, which are funded by charities or by the universities themselves may have more stringent restrictions.

Rethinking the concept of life. A dialogue with non-Western perspectives

Jazz as a political force, jazz and improvised music, visualisation of computation, philosophy at uea, funded phd programme (students worldwide).

Some or all of the PhD opportunities in this programme have funding attached. Applications for this programme are welcome from suitably qualified candidates worldwide. Funding may only be available to a limited set of nationalities and you should read the full programme details for further information.

Humanities Research Programme

Humanities Research Programmes present a range of research opportunities, shaped by a university’s particular expertise, facilities and resources. You will usually identify a suitable topic for your PhD and propose your own project. Additional training and development opportunities may also be offered as part of your programme.

Swansea University International Postgraduate Research Excellence Scholarships 2024

Phd studentship in computer science: applying quantum foundations for quantum advantage, funded phd project (students worldwide).

This project has funding attached, subject to eligibility criteria. Applications for the project are welcome from all suitably qualified candidates, but its funding may be restricted to a limited set of nationalities. You should check the project and department details for more information.

Interdisciplinary project

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Practical Ethics

Philosophy in Prison

• by Joanna Demaree-Cotton
• June 22, 2024 June 22, 2024

A new branch of outreach from the Uehiro Centre

By joanna demaree-cotton.

From this summer, a number of our academics and graduate students will be swapping their offices and lecture halls to teach in a different kind of venue: UK prisons.

Philosophy In Prison is a wonderful, small, UK-based charity. Run by philosophers, they organise for volunteers, like us, to bring philosophy courses to prison populations. Their approach is to make philosophy accessible to anyone in prison, irrespective of educational background and literacy.

I first taught in prison as part of the Yale Prison Education Initiative during my PhD. I taught a few classes for an Introduction to Ethics undergraduate-level course at the MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution in Connecticut in 2019. During this time, I had two related realisations. First, without realising or acknowledging it, up until the moment I actually stepped into a prison I had held a very stereotyped and, frankly, inaccurate picture of people who are incarcerated. Second, teaching philosophy is inherently humanising. In sharing ideas, in engaging deeply with the students’ own concepts, thought processes, and arguments, one is inevitably engaged in a process that recognises and acknowledges their humanity. In the philosophy classroom, we do thinking, and your very thoughts are worth expressing, analysing, developing.

Yet, it seems fair to suggest that people in prison are much, much less likely to have benefitted from positive educational experiences compared to the general population. According to a February 2024 report from the Prison Reform Trust, around half of the adult prison population were: regularly truant from school; expelled or permanently excluded from school; have no qualifications. In addition, around two-thirds of those given a literacy assessment in prison last year (based on data from the Ministry of Justice) had literacy skills expected of 11-year-olds or younger. Moreover, HM Inspectorate of Prisons ratings for 2022-23 assessed the quality of purposeful activity taking in prisons (which includes education) as being at an all-time low.

These are just some of the reasons I am particularly pleased that we are able to start doing some outreach with this underserved population. Keep an eye out for blog posts to come as our volunteers report on their classes, and perhaps even discuss some of the many philosophical and ethical issues raised by teaching in prison.

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