Philosophy and Law (including Year Abroad)

The Philosophy and Law program at the University of Essex offers students a comprehensive and intellectually stimulating education that combines the fundamental principles of philosophy with an in-depth understanding of legal systems and practices. Designed for those who are curious about the nature of human thought, moral reasoning, justice, and the legal frameworks that govern society, this interdisciplinary course provides a unique opportunity to explore two of the most vital fields in contemporary academia and professional life. Over the duration of the degree, students will engage with a wide range of philosophical topics, including ethics, epistemology, metaphysics, and political philosophy, while simultaneously examining the core principles, structures, and functions of law. The program aims to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and argumentative abilities, equipping students not only for careers within the legal sector or academia but also for roles requiring rigorous reasoning, ethical judgment, and policy analysis.

A distinctive feature of this program is the Year Abroad component, which enables students to spend an academic year studying at a partner university in a different country. This experience enhances language skills, cultural understanding, and international perspectives, essential for careers in global law and philosophy. The collaborative environment and diverse student body foster an inclusive learning atmosphere where different viewpoints are explored and challenged. Throughout their studies, students gain valuable practical skills, including legal research, philosophical argumentation, ethical analysis, and communication skills, preparing them for roles in law, public policy, academia, NGOs, and beyond. The program’s interdisciplinary approach not only broadens intellectual horizons but also encourages independent research and original thinking. Graduates of this degree are well-equipped to pursue advanced legal studies, philosophy research, or enter various professional fields that value analytical and ethical skills. With a strong foundation in both disciplines, students leave the program ready to contribute thoughtfully and effectively to society's moral and legal debates.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 11950 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

The special characteristics of our courses are flexibility and choice. In your first year, you usually take four or five modules that include pre-requisite(s) for your course but, in many cases, mean you can try subjects you have not come across before. If you are taking a humanities or social science, then you have the greatest choice, as most of our first-year modules do not assume any specialist knowledge.
With a small number of exceptions, if you successfully complete the first year of your BA, then you are qualified to enter the second year of that course and a range of other courses: for example, if you take economics, politics, philosophy and sociology, then you have a choice of at least nine possible single or joint honours courses at the end of your first year. This means you can change your course, providing you have taken the appropriate pre-requisites and places are available. We offer a range of optional modules in your second- and final-years and most courses allow you to undertake a final-year project, an individual piece of research on a topic that interests you.
We operate a credit framework for our awards, which is based on principles widely used across the UK university sector. Each module has a credit rating attached and our standard three-year course consists of 360 credits (120 credits in your first year, and 240 credits across your second and final years).
Please note that module information on our course finder provides a guide to course content and may be subject to review on an annual basis.

Year 1

Legal Skills;
Foundations of the Law of Property; Public Law 1;
Introduction to Philosophy; and
Death, God and the Meaning of Life or The Enlightenment or a first-year philosophy optional module.

Year 2

Foundations of the Law of Obligations;
Jurisprudence 1;
Criminal Law;
Conceptual Foundations of Modernity or one optional philosophy module; and
Ethics or one philosophy optional module.

Year 3

Year abroad

Year 4

Joint Seminar in Philosophy and Law;
a combination of two full-year law options or four half-year law options; and
one full-year philosophy option or two half-year philosophy options.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

A-levels: ABB-BBB
GCSE English: C
IB: 32-30 points (we consider IB certificates at the Higher Level on a case-by-case basis)
Achievement of the Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 6 level three credits at distinction and the remainder at merit (or above) or achievement of the Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 45 level three credits at merit (or above).
English language requirements for applicants whose first language is not English: IELTS 6.0 overall with minimum 5.5 in each component (or equivalent). Different requirements apply for second year entry.

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 Essex.

Funding

For up-to-date information on funding opportunities at the University of Essex please visit: www.essex.ac.uk/studentfinance

The Philosophy and Law program at the University of Essex provides students with an in-depth understanding of fundamental questions about morality, justice, law, and the nature of philosophical inquiry, complemented by a comprehensive exploration of legal principles and systems. The curriculum is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a nuanced understanding of the ways in which philosophy and law intersect and influence each other. Throughout the course, students engage with core topics such as ethics, political philosophy, metaphysics, epistemology, and the philosophy of law, alongside an examination of legal institutions, human rights, criminal law, and contract law. The program typically includes lectures, seminars, and tutorials, encouraging active participation and discussion of complex topics.

An integral feature of the program is the Year Abroad, which allows students to immerse themselves in different legal and philosophical traditions, often through placements, exchanges, or study at partner universities abroad. This international component aims to broaden students' perspectives, enhance language skills, and prepare them for careers that require cross-cultural understanding and legal or philosophical expertise. The Year Abroad is usually undertaken in the second year of study and involves preparatory modules and support to facilitate a smooth transition and fruitful experience.

Graduates of this program are equipped to pursue careers in law, academia, public policy, journalism, and other sectors where critical analysis and ethical reasoning are valued. Many students also choose to continue their education at the postgraduate level, engaging in specialized legal or philosophical research. The University of Essex's commitment to social justice, critical inquiry, and innovative teaching methods supports students in developing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Facilities such as extensive libraries, dedicated study spaces, and access to online resources complement the academic experience. The program aims to foster a diverse and inclusive learning environment where students can thrive academically, personally, and professionally.

Overall, the Philosophy and Law program at the University of Essex offers a rigorous and enriching curriculum with opportunities for international exposure, preparing students for diverse and rewarding careers in law, philosophy, or related fields.