European Philosophy

European Philosophy at the University of Dundee offers students an immersive exploration of foundational questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, and the nature of reality through the lens of European intellectual traditions. This program encourages critical thinking and analytical skills by examining key philosophical movements, texts, and figures from the Ancient Greek philosophers to contemporary European thinkers. Students will engage with a diverse range of topics, including ethics, metaphysics, political philosophy, and the philosophy of language, fostering a comprehensive understanding of European philosophical thought and its influence on modern society. The curriculum is designed to develop core philosophical skills such as logical reasoning, clear argumentation, and careful textual analysis, preparing students for a variety of career paths or further academic study. With modules covering major periods and themes, students will gain insight into the historical contexts that shaped European philosophy, as well as its ongoing relevance today. The program emphasizes independent research and critical discussion, encouraging students to develop their own philosophical perspectives. Learning takes place through a combination of lectures, seminars, and independent study, supported by access to extensive academic resources and expert faculty. Graduates of this program will be equipped with a sophisticated understanding of European philosophical traditions, analytical capabilities, and an appreciation for the enduring relevance of philosophical inquiry. The program aims to foster intellectually curious graduates capable of contributing thoughtfully to debates on ethics, politics, and human experience in a globalized world.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 2060 Year (EEA)
• EUR 10420 Year (Non-EEA)

Tuition fees are approximate and dependent upon currency exchange rates.

• English

Course Content

Level 1

A total of 6 modules, including at least one of:

- Plato and the Good Life - This module introduces philosophy through the works of Plato.

- Descartes, Thought and Reality - Focusing on the key themes of thought and reality, this course will introduce students to some of the most important thinkers informing debates in contemporary philosophy.

Level 2

A total of 6 modules, including at least one of:

- Hume and Recent European Philosophy, Problems of the Self - In this unit, we investigate Hume's views on the mind, meaning, the sources and justification of knowledge, causation, free will, the self, God, and morality.

- Aesthetics and Kant

Level 3

A total of 4 modules (2 modules for joint Honours)

A selection of the following modules will be available in any one year:

- Aesthetics of the Sublime*

- Foucault, Power and Violence*

- Gender, Feminism and Political Theory

- Kant's Critique of Pure Reason*

- Knowledge and Mind

- Logic and Paradox

- Philosophies of History*

- Philosophy and Antigone

- Question of Vision in Art and Philosophy*

- Spinoza and Free Will*

Level 4

A total of 4 modules (2 modules for joint Honours)

A selection of the following modules will be available in any one year:

- Dissertation (compulsory for single Honours students)

- Deleuze*

- Marx's Capital

- Nietzsche's Beyond Good and Evil*

- Philosophy of Peace and War

- Philosophy of Time

- Thinking Film*

- Understanding, Dialogue and Interpretation*

- Wittgenstein

European Philosophy modules are marked with an asterisk*.

Requirements

- Minimum Requirements:

SQA Higher: ABBB

GCE A-Level: BCC

ILC Higher: ABBB

IB Diploma: 30 points with 5, 5, 5 at HL

- Advanced Entry (to level 2):

SQA Advanced Higher: BB+BB (H) in different subjects

GCE A-Level: ABB

IB Diploma: 34 points with 6, 6, 5 at HL

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Dundee.

The BA in European Philosophy at the University of Dundee offers students an in-depth exploration of philosophical ideas and movements originating from Europe, spanning historical periods from antiquity to the modern era. This programme aims to develop students’ critical thinking, analytical skills, and philosophical understanding, equipping them with the ability to interpret complex texts and engage with contemporary debates in philosophy. Throughout the course, students examine key themes such as ethics, metaphysics, political philosophy, and epistemology, with a special emphasis on European thinkers including Socrates, Kant, Nietzsche, Heidegger, and many others. The curriculum integrates a variety of teaching modes, including lectures, seminars, workshops, and independent research, fostering an engaging learning environment.

Students are encouraged to analyze philosophical texts within their historical and cultural contexts, promoting a comprehensive understanding of European intellectual history. The programme also offers opportunities for students to participate in discussions on contemporary issues through the lens of philosophical traditions, thereby connecting historical ideas with current societal challenges. Assessment methods include essays, presentations, exams, and a final dissertation, all designed to enhance students’ research and communication skills. The programme is designed for students who are interested in philosophy, history, and cultural studies, and who wish to pursue careers in education, research, public policy, or sectors requiring analytical and critical reasoning skills.

The university provides excellent resources, including access to a well-stocked library, digital learning platforms, and links with philosophical societies and conferences. Additionally, students have opportunities for placements, internships, and participation in academic conferences, which enrich their academic and professional experience. The programme also emphasizes the development of transferable skills such as problem-solving, effective communication, and intercultural awareness, preparing graduates for diverse career paths.

The BA in European Philosophy at Dundee is suitable for students seeking to deepen their understanding of European intellectual traditions and to engage critically with philosophical ideas that have shaped Western thought. The programme fosters an inclusive academic environment, welcoming students from diverse backgrounds and encouraging interdisciplinary approaches. Graduates of the programme often pursue postgraduate studies in philosophy or related disciplines, or enter careers in journalism, publishing, education, cultural management, or public service. Overall, this programme offers a comprehensive foundation in European philosophical thought, engaging students with the rich history and contemporary relevance of philosophy across Europe, and supporting their development as informed, thoughtful citizens and professionals.