Philosophy

The Philosophy program at the University of East Anglia offers an engaging and comprehensive exploration of fundamental questions concerning existence, knowledge, ethics, mind, language, and reality. Designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and reflective judgment, this degree provides students with a solid foundation in philosophical theories and methodologies, preparing them for a wide range of careers or further academic study. Throughout the course, students examine classical philosophical texts from ancient Greece to contemporary thinkers, engaging in rigorous debates and developing their own philosophical arguments. The curriculum covers diverse areas including ethics, metaphysics, epistemology, philosophy of mind, political philosophy, and philosophy of science. The program emphasizes the importance of clarity of thought and precision in written and verbal arguments, fostering an environment where students can refine their reasoning capabilities. With a flexible structure, students have opportunities to specialize in areas of particular interest or to gain interdisciplinary insights by combining philosophy with other fields such as politics, psychology, or the sciences. The university’s research-active staff are committed to providing high-quality teaching, guiding students through complex philosophical issues and encouraging independent inquiry. Situated within a vibrant academic community, students participate in seminars, workshops, and events that stimulate intellectual engagement and collaboration. The program aims not only to deepen understanding of philosophical concepts but also to cultivate skills that are highly valued in careers such as law, journalism, public policy, education, and more. By the end of their studies, graduates will have developed clear and persuasive argumentation skills, the ability to think critically about complex issues, and an appreciation for diverse philosophical perspectives. This program is ideal for those passionate about exploring fundamental questions and seeking a rigorous intellectual challenge in a supportive environment.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 10550 Year (EEA)
• EUR 14400 Year (Non-EEA)

UK/EU Students: £9,000. International Students: £12,300

• English

Course Content

Teaching and Assessment

Philosophy thrives on discussion and the exchange of views. Only some parts of it can be done in large lecture classes. So we do have some of those—but when we do, they are designed to set you thinking, not to tell you facts. It's about learning how to think, and how to express what you think, not learning what to say. All the units have small group seminars or tutorials in which you work on the problems with a member of staff.

During the year your written work is marked by the seminar tutors. They give you comments and feedback to help you improve. Time is set aside for you to call on the lecturers to discuss your work or to get individual guidance.

Assessment is by a mixture of essays, longer projects or dissertation, and examinations. Each unit has its own mix of assessment. The degree result is calculated from the results of all the units in your final two years. You can find more information on the modules available on this course on the 'Course Profile' page.

Year Abroad

One semester can be spent in Finland, Germany or Greece on the ERASMUS exchange programme.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5 TOEFL iBT® test : 88

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

Requirements

• A Level:

• International Baccalaureate:

• Scottish Highers:

• Scottish Advanced Highers:

• Irish Leaving Certificate:

• Access Course:

• HND:

• European Baccalaureate:

Students for whom English is a Foreign language

We welcome applications from students from all academic backgrounds. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading). Recognised English Language qualifications include:

• IELTS: 6.5 overall (minimum 6.0 in Reading and Writing with no less than 5.5 in any component)
• TOEFL: Internet-based score of 88 overall (minimum 20 in Reading and Speaking components, 19 in Writing component and 17 in Listening components.
• PTE: 62 overall (minimum 55 in Reading and Writing components with no less than 51 in any component).

If you do not meet the University's entry requirements, our INTO Language Learning Centre offers a range of university preparation courses to help you develop the high level of academic and English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.

Interviews

The School does not currently interview all applicants for undergraduate entry as standard, however we may interview mature students, those returning to study or applicants with alternative qualifications. All applicants who are made an offer are given the opportunity to meet with an academic on a Visit Day in order to gain a deeper insight into the course(s) you have applied for.

Gap Year

Normally there is not a problem in deferring entry for a year. Offers are made in the usual way to applicants who ask for deferred entry.

Special Entry Requirements

There are no specific subjects that are required in order to take up Philosophy, and it is not necessary to have studied any Philosophy before. We are keen to see some arts or humanities subjects that involve academic work, including writing essays and reading texts. Good results in Mathematics, Music or Latin are also an indicator for doing well in Philosophy - because of the kind of rigour which they instil.

Intakes

The School's annual intake is in September of each year.

Alternative Qualifications

If you have alternative qualifications that have not been mentioned above, then please contact university directly for further information.

GCSE Offer

Students are required to have GCSE Mathematics and GCSE English Language at grade C or above.

Assessment

For the majority of candidates the most important factors in assessing the application will be past and future achievement in examinations, academic interest in the subject being applied for, personal interest and extra-curricular activities and the confidential reference.

We consider applicants as individuals and accept students from a very wide range of educational backgrounds and spend time considering your application in order to reach an informed decision relating to your application. Typical offers are indicated above. Please note, there may be additional subject entry requirements specific to individual degree courses.

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 East Anglia.

The Philosophy program at the University of East Anglia offers students a comprehensive exploration of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, ethics, and reasoning. The course is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of philosophical ideas from both historical and contemporary perspectives. Students will engage with a wide range of philosophical topics, including metaphysics, epistemology, logic, ethics, and philosophy of mind. The program emphasizes active participation and encourages students to develop their own philosophical arguments while critically examining the ideas of great philosophers from diverse traditions.

The curriculum combines lecture-based learning, seminars, and independent research projects, providing students with a well-rounded academic experience. Throughout the course, students have the opportunity to participate in debate sessions, workshops, and philosophical discussions that foster a dynamic learning environment. The program aims to prepare students for various career paths by enhancing their reasoning, writing, and communication skills, which are highly valued in fields such as education, law, politics, journalism, and academia.

Students can benefit from the university’s state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated philosophy laboratories and resource centers, as well as support from experienced faculty members who are active researchers in their fields. The program also offers opportunities for study abroad and internships, broadening students' academic and professional horizons. Graduates from the Philosophy program often pursue postgraduate studies or find employment in roles that require complex problem-solving, ethical judgment, and effective communication. The University of East Anglia’s philosophy program aims to foster a thoughtful, inquisitive, and ethical mindset, equipping students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to thrive in an increasingly complex world.