Philosophy

The University of Cape Town offers a comprehensive and rigorous Philosophy program designed to develop students’ critical thinking, analytical skills, and understanding of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, and the nature of reality. This program provides a solid foundation in both historical and contemporary philosophical thought, encouraging students to engage deeply with key philosophical texts, theories, and debates. Through a combination of coursework, seminars, and independent research, students explore diverse areas such as metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, political philosophy, philosophy of science, and logic.

The Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy at UCT emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating insights from other fields including arts, social sciences, and sciences to enrich philosophical inquiry. The curriculum aims to cultivate critical reasoning, argumentative clarity, and the ability to analyze complex ideas, preparing students for a wide range of careers including academia, law, public policy, journalism, and beyond. Students are encouraged to participate in philosophical discussions, contribute to academic research, and develop their own perspectives through essays, presentations, and projects.

Furthermore, the Philosophy program at UCT benefits from a vibrant academic environment supported by experienced faculty members who are actively involved in research and publications in various philosophical disciplines. The program also offers opportunities for postgraduate studies, fostering advanced research skills and specialization in areas of particular interest. UCT’s commitment to fostering an inclusive, innovative, and challenging academic community ensures that students are well-equipped to address the philosophical questions of today and contribute meaningfully to intellectual and societal development. Graduates leave with a nuanced understanding of philosophical issues, critical skills applicable across numerous sectors, and the capacity for lifelong learning and inquiry.

• PHI4004H PHILOSOPHICAL TEXTS
• PHI4012S PHILOSOPHY OF PSYCHOLOGY
• PHI4015S CONTEMPORARY PHILOSOPHY OF THOUGHT
• PHI4021F TOPICS IN RATIONAL DECISION MAKING
• PHI4022S MORAL PHILOSOPHY PHI4023F HISTORY OF PHILOSOPHY
• PHI5006W PHILOSOPHICAL TEXTS
• PHI5008S MORAL PHILOSOPHY
• PHI5009F TOPICS IN RATIONAL DECISION MAKING
• PHI5010S CONTEMPORARY PHILOSOPHY OF THOUGHT 

• Certified copies of official academic transcripts in ENGLISH (full transcripts for each tertiary institution attended)
• Certified copies of degree certificates in ENGLISH (for each tertiary institution attended where applicable)
• Applicants from universities situated in non-English speaking countries: TOEFL/IELTS certificate OR letter from previous tertiary institution stating “English as medium of instruction” for the programme
• Curriculum vitae (include work experience)
• A recent score (obtained within 3 - 5 years before application for admission) of at least 570 (paper-based test) or 230 (computer-based test) on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
• A recent overall band score of 7.0 (with no individual element of the test scoring below 6.0) on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
• OR, noting that this may only be written at certain designated venues within South Africa, a score of at least 65% on the university's Placement Test in English for Educational Purposes (PTEEP).
• Applicants must have the required academic background and submit an acceptable research proposal for which supervision is available. Research degrees are encouraged where the field of research is clearly defined, the student wishes to concentrate on a specific research topic and has demonstrated the ability to do so. 

Scholarships

• International & refugee scholarships
• Merit awards

The University of Cape Town offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree with a major in Philosophy, designed to provide students with a solid foundation in philosophical thought, critical thinking, and analytical skills. The programme combines both historical and contemporary philosophical perspectives, exploring diverse areas such as ethics, metaphysics, epistemology, political philosophy, and philosophy of science. Students engaging in this programme will have the opportunity to examine the works of influential philosophers from different eras and cultural backgrounds, fostering a global and inclusive understanding of philosophical issues.

The curriculum emphasizes developing skills in logical reasoning, argument analysis, and clear writing, which are valuable across numerous career paths. Philosophy students at UCT are encouraged to think independently and critically, engaging with complex texts and ideas through rigorous discussion and research. The programme often includes a mix of lectures, tutorials, seminars, and independent study, allowing for both collaborative learning and individual intellectual growth.

Graduates of the Philosophy programme are well-equipped for further academic pursuits, such as postgraduate studies in philosophy, law, or related fields. Additionally, the skills acquired—critical analysis, ethical reasoning, and effective communication—are highly sought after in sectors such as education, public policy, journalism, and corporate sectors. The programme also fosters an understanding of ethical principles relevant to contemporary societal issues, helping students to develop nuanced perspectives on moral dilemmas faced by individuals and institutions.

At UCT, the philosophy programme maintains high academic standards, with experienced faculty members dedicated to providing rich, engaging, and challenging courses. The department promotes research and intellectual exchange, often hosting seminars, workshops, and guest lectures that expose students to cutting-edge philosophical debates. Moreover, students can participate in various extracurricular activities related to philosophy, which enhances their learning experience and prepares them for diverse professional fields.

The university's strong emphasis on transforming society through education and research ties into its philosophy programme by encouraging students to critically assess societal values, question assumptions, and develop their own informed viewpoints. With its vibrant academic community and access to extensive resources such as libraries, online journals, and philosophical societies, UCT's Philosophy programme offers a stimulating environment suited to nurturing thoughtful, skilled graduates ready to contribute meaningfully to society.