Philosophy

The Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy at University College London offers students the opportunity to explore fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, mind, and language through a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum. Designed for those with a passion for critical thinking and logical analysis, the programme encourages students to engage deeply with historical and contemporary philosophical debates, developing their ability to think clearly, argue persuasively, and analyze complex ideas. The course structure includes a range of core modules such as Introduction to Philosophy, Knowledge and Reality, Ethics and Political Philosophy, and Philosophy of Mind, alongside a variety of optional modules allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests, including areas such as philosophy of science, aesthetics, and existentialism. The programme emphasizes both classical philosophical texts and cutting-edge research, preparing graduates for diverse career paths in academia, law, public policy, journalism, and beyond. Students benefit from UCL's renowned academic staff, state-of-the-art facilities, and vibrant intellectual community, which stimulate rigorous inquiry and innovative thinking. Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to participate in seminars, workshops, and research projects that develop their analytical, writing, and presentation skills. The programme also offers opportunities for interdisciplinary engagement, connecting philosophy with disciplines such as psychology, linguistics, and economics. Upon graduation, students will have acquired a systematic understanding of key philosophical problems, the ability to critically evaluate arguments, and skills applicable across numerous fields requiring analytical rigor. The UCL Philosophy programme aims to cultivate thoughtful, open-minded individuals equipped to address some of the most profound questions facing humanity today.

In each year of your degree you will take a number of individual modules, normally valued at 0.5 or 1.0 credits, adding up to a total of 4.0 credits for the year. Modules are assessed in the academic year in which they are taken. The balance of compulsory and optional modules varies from programme to programme and year to year. A 1.0 credit is considered equivalent to 15 credits in the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).

The first year begins with several introductory lecture courses, providing a foundation for later studies. The programme covers political philosophy, examining questions about the state, liberty and laws; moral philosophy, questioning distinctions of right and wrong, and our motivation for choosing between the two; epistemology which investigates the nature of knowledge and belief; metaphysics, which attempts to grasp the nature of things; and logic, which imparts principles of sound reasoning.

Your second and third years will be spent studying a range of subjects from metaphysics and epistemology and the philosophies of mind and language, to moral and political philosophy, aesthetics and phenomenology, and the history of philosophy.

The programme is designed to ensure that the central areas of the subject are covered, while also allowing you to choose from an array of optional modules, some of which may be taken from other departments at UCL.

A levels

Grades

AAA

Subjects

No specific subjects.

GCSEs

English Language at grade B, plus Mathematics at grade C. For UK-based students, a grade C or equivalent in a foreign language (other than Ancient Greek, Biblical Hebrew or Latin) is required. UCL provides opportunities to meet the foreign language requirement following enrolment, further details at: www.ucl.ac.uk/ug-reqs

IB Diploma

Points

38

Subjects

A total of 18 points in three higher level subjects, with no score below 5.

The Philosophy programme at University College London offers a variety of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Prospective students are encouraged to explore multiple funding sources, including government loans, scholarships, bursaries, and external funding opportunities. UK students may be eligible for government student loans provided by Student Finance England, which can cover tuition fees and contribute towards living costs. These loans are repayable only after graduation, and the repayment terms depend on income levels. International students are advised to seek scholarships specifically available for overseas applicants, which can significantly reduce financial burdens.

UCL offers several merit-based scholarships and bursaries for incoming students, such as the UCL Global Excellence Scholarships and the Vice-Chancellor's Undergraduate Scholarships, which are awarded based on academic achievement and potential. The university also provides access to external funding sources, including private foundations and charitable organizations that support students pursuing higher education in the arts and humanities. Additionally, students are encouraged to consider part-time work opportunities on or near campus, which can help offset living expenses without hindering academic progress.

For students from disadvantaged backgrounds, UCL has dedicated support schemes aimed at providing financial assistance and additional resources. These include hardship funds and specialized bursaries designed to reduce financial barriers and promote equal access to education. Moreover, the university regularly updates its financial advice services, guiding students through the complex landscape of funding options and helping them identify tailored solutions to meet their financial needs. Studying at UCL also provides opportunities to participate in paid research projects and teaching assistantships, which can further supplement income during the course of study. Overall, UCL’s comprehensive approach to student financing ensures that individuals from diverse economic backgrounds can focus on their academic pursuits in philosophy without undue financial stress.

The Philosophy program at University College London (UCL) offers a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum that explores fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, reason, and language. UCL's Department of Philosophy is renowned for its diverse range of modules, allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests, whether in metaphysics, epistemology, the history of philosophy, or contemporary philosophical issues. The program emphasizes critical thinking, argument analysis, and the development of clear, persuasive writing skills, equipping students with valuable analytical tools applicable across various careers.

Students have access to extensive resources, including a faculty composed of leading philosophers and researchers in the field. The program often encourages engagement with interdisciplinary topics, linking philosophy with politics, science, and the arts, enhancing students' understanding of complex societal issues. UCL’s location in central London provides students with unique opportunities for intellectual enrichment through access to museums, libraries, cultural institutions, and guest lectures by eminent philosophers and scholars.

The duration of the Bachelor's degree is typically three years for full-time students, with options for joint honours or combined programs that allow integration with other disciplines. The program incorporates a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, tutorials, and independent research projects, promoting active learning and critical inquiry. Assessment methods usually consist of written essays, presentations, and examinations, with an emphasis on originality and clarity of thought.

Graduates of the Philosophy program have gone on to successful careers in academia, law, journalism, public policy, and business, demonstrating the versatility and practical value of philosophical training. Additionally, UCL supports students through academic advising, career services, and research opportunities, ensuring a well-rounded university experience. Overall, the Philosophy program at UCL provides a robust foundation in philosophical thought and methodology, preparing students to engage thoughtfully with complex ideas and challenges in a rapidly changing world.