Philosophy, Religion and Ethics

The Philosophy, Religion and Ethics degree at the University of Essex offers students an in-depth exploration of some of the most fundamental questions about human existence, belief, and morality. This interdisciplinary programme provides a comprehensive understanding of philosophical ideas, religious traditions, and ethical theories that have shaped societies and cultures throughout history. students will examine a wide range of topics including the nature of reality, the concept of divine existence, moral decision-making, and the influence of religion on contemporary issues. The programme is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a nuanced appreciation of diverse worldviews.

Throughout the course, students engage with primary texts, engage in lively discussions, and undertake independent research. The curriculum covers key areas such as metaphysics, epistemology, political philosophy, and the philosophy of religion, alongside the study of major world religions and their historical contexts. Emphasis is placed on understanding different religious beliefs and practices, as well as ethical debates surrounding topics like human rights, environmental issues, and bioethics.

The programme also encourages students to critically assess contemporary challenges and consider how philosophical and religious perspectives can contribute to societal well-being. Students have opportunities to participate in seminars, workshops, and placements that enhance their practical understanding and employability skills. With a supportive academic environment, the programme aims to prepare graduates for careers in education, journalism, public policy, non-governmental organizations, or further academic research.

Studying Philosophy, Religion and Ethics at Essex provides students with the intellectual tools to think deeply, question assumptions, and develop well-informed perspectives on some of the most urgent issues facing our world today. The flexible structure of the programme allows students to tailor their studies according to their interests, whether they wish to focus more on philosophy, religious studies, or ethical theory. Upon completion, graduates possess a sophisticated understanding of human thought and belief systems, equipping them with valuable skills applicable in various professional and academic contexts.

Detailed Course Facts

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

• English

Course Content

Our courses are characterised by choice and flexibility. Studying at Essex is about discovering yourself, so your course combines compulsory ('core') and optional modules to ensure you gain key knowledge in the discipline while having as much freedom as possible to explore your own interests. Our modules change from year to year in response to new developments and innovation, but our module directory can show you which modules are available to our current students.

Example structure

Because of our interdisciplinary approach, many of our courses offer a wide selection of available modules, often including options from departments other than your own. Your course content will therefore depend on your own unique interests, but the structure below gives an example of what’s available to you.

Year 1

• Introduction to Philosophy (core)
• Death, God and the Meaning of Life (core)
• Critical Reasoning and Logical Argument (optional)
• Introduction to Social Anthropology (optional)

Year 2

• Ethics (core)
• Philosophy and Religion (core)
• Ancient Philosophy (optional)
• Philosophy and Film (optional)
• Philosophy and Literature (optional)

Year 3

• Topics in the Philosophy of Religion (core)
• Philosophy and Medical Ethics (core)
• Freud and the Philosophy of the Unconscious (optional)
• Joint Seminar in Philosophy and Law (optional)
• Kant’s Revolution in Philosophy (optional)
• Philosophy of Mind (optional)
• Philosophy Dissertation (optional)

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, Religion and Ethics program at the University of Essex offers students an in-depth exploration of some of the most fundamental questions regarding existence, morality, belief systems, and cultural practices. This interdisciplinary course combines philosophical inquiry with the study of religious traditions and ethical frameworks, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of how humans interpret the world and their place within it. The curriculum typically includes modules on ancient and modern philosophy, world religions, ethical theories, metaphysics, and contemporary issues such as secularism, religious conflicts, and global ethics. Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a nuanced understanding of diverse perspectives. The program aims to equip graduates with the intellectual tools necessary for careers in academia, public policy, NGOs, journalism, and other fields where understanding complex moral and religious issues is essential. The University of Essex emphasizes a research-informed teaching approach, with access to extensive resources, including a rich library collection and dedicated research centers. Students participate in seminars, workshops, and possibly field trips related to religious and philosophical sites, enhancing practical understanding. Furthermore, the program promotes the development of independent research skills, culminating in a dissertation on a chosen topic within philosophy, religion, or ethics. The academic staff includes specialists in various areas of philosophy and religious studies, ensuring a broad yet detailed exploration of core themes. The program often encourages international perspectives, reflecting the global nature of religious and philosophical inquiry. Graduates from this program are well-prepared for further academic research or professional careers requiring sophisticated ethical reasoning, cultural awareness, and critical analysis. The University of Essex's supportive academic environment, combined with its diverse student body and commitment to inclusivity, makes this program an ideal choice for students interested in exploring existential questions and the role of religion and ethics in contemporary society.