MA Philosophy

at University of Exeter

We’ll actively encourage you to consider and debate some of the biggest questions facing mankind by engaging with the latest, cutting edge research in fields such as philosophy of science, philosophy of mind and contemporary ethics.

 

Our core module Introduction to Philosophical Methods, will give you a thorough grounding in a variety of different methods pursued in philosophical research as well as introducing you to the distinctive interdisciplinary character of research at Exeter. You’ll engage with methods such as conceptual analysis, naturalism, phenomenology, genealogy, experimental philosophy, historical sociological and ethnographic approaches.

 

You will be challenged to reflect critically on the different methods of philosophical research and taught how to use appropriate methods and materials to conduct your own research when completing your dissertation.

 

You will be taught by staff who are research active in the field and who bring this research directly into their teaching. Our small group seminars enable you to interact closely with academics and also peers, providing a safe and stimulating environment in which to develop and debate your own ideas and opinions, discuss readings and learn from others.

 

Due to our interdisciplinary approach you will have the benefit of a wide choice of optional modules from across sociology and anthropology as well as philosophy. In addition to philosophical issues and debates, you can also choose to study areas such as social theory; science and technology studies; the relationship between humans and animals; food, body and society; gender at work; data science and policy analysis.

 

You will undertake modules to the value of 180 credits comprised of a combination of compulsory and optional modules.

 

The modules we outline here provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand.

 

Modules

• Dissertation
• Introduction to Philosophical Methods

We are looking for graduates with a 2:1 or above in philosophy (or a degree with a substantial philosophy component). While we normally only accept applicants who meet this criterion, if your first degree is in a different discipline, you have a high 2:2 or equivalent, are coming from a different academic background which is equivalent to degree level, or have relevant work experience, we would welcome your application.

 

All applicants should provide a personal statement explaining their interest in the programme and how it fits with their earlier studies.

 

Entry requirements for international students

English language requirements

• IELTS

Overall score 6.5. No less than 6.0 in any section.

 

• TOEFL

Overall score 90 with minimum scores of 21 for writing, 21 for listening, 22 for reading and 23 for speaking.

2022/23 entry

UK fees per year:
£10,000 full-time; £5,000 part-time

 

International fees per year:
£20,500 full-time

In addition to the specialist knowledge you will gain during your programme, you will also develop transferrable skills valued by employers such as: 

• Researching, analysing and assessing sources of information
• Written and verbal communication skills
• Managing and interpreting information
• Developing ideas and arguments