Philosophy, Religion and Ethics (including Year Abroad)

The Philosophy, Religion and Ethics programme at the University of Essex offers students a comprehensive exploration of some of the most profound questions concerning human existence, morality, and the nature of reality. This interdisciplinary course is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and an in-depth understanding of various philosophical ideas, religious traditions, and ethical frameworks that have shaped human societies across history and continue to influence contemporary debates. Throughout the programme, students examine philosophical concepts such as metaphysics, epistemology, and logic, while engaging with major religious traditions including Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and others. The course also emphasizes contemporary ethical issues, encouraging students to apply their philosophical knowledge to real-world problems like bioethics, environmental ethics, human rights, and social justice.

A distinctive feature of the programme is the Year Abroad, which provides students with an invaluable opportunity to study in a different cultural and academic environment. This not only enhances linguistic skills and intercultural understanding but also broadens philosophical and religious perspectives by exposing students to different traditions and worldviews. During the Year Abroad, students can choose to study at partner institutions in a variety of countries, allowing them to deepen their knowledge and experience diverse approaches to philosophy, religion, and ethics.

The curriculum at Essex combines traditional philosophical inquiry with contemporary issues, fostering a critical and open-minded approach to complex questions. Students will develop the ability to think rigorously, argue convincingly, and engage thoughtfully with diverse perspectives. The programme prepares graduates for a variety of careers, including academia, journalism, public policy, education, and roles that require analytical and ethical reasoning skills. With access to excellent research resources and supportive faculty members, students will be encouraged to undertake independent research projects and participate in lively debates and seminars.

The university’s vibrant academic community and its focus on inclusion and diversity ensure that students gain a well-rounded and globally informed education. The programme meets the needs of those interested in understanding the philosophical underpinnings of different religious traditions, engaging with ethical dilemmas of today’s world, and exploring fundamental questions about human existence. Whether students aim to progress into further academic study or to enter professions that value critical and reflective thinking, the Philosophy, Religion and Ethics programme at Essex provides an intellectually stimulating environment for academic and personal development.

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

Year abroad

Year 4

• 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 (including Year Abroad) degree at the University of Essex offers students a comprehensive exploration of fundamental questions about human existence, morality, religious beliefs, and ethical practices across diverse cultural and historical contexts. This programme is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and informed understanding of philosophical concepts, religious traditions, and ethical issues that are relevant in contemporary society. Throughout the course, students engage with a wide range of topics, including metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, political philosophy, and the philosophy of religion, among others. The inclusion of a Year Abroad provides students with the opportunity to immerse themselves in different cultural and academic environments, enhancing their global perspective and intercultural communication skills. The year abroad typically involves studying at partner universities in countries such as France, Germany, or other European nations, depending on the chosen pathway, and allows students to gain international experience and language skills that are increasingly valuable in today’s interconnected world. The programme is suitable for students interested in pursuing careers in academia, education, public service, religious organizations, or any field that requires strong critical analysis and ethical reasoning. The university’s faculty members are experts in their fields and offer a supportive learning environment that encourages independent thought and academic enquiry. Practical components such as seminars, workshops, and independent research projects are integral to the course, fostering a hands-on learning experience. Graduates of the programme are equipped with the intellectual tools to analyze complex issues, articulate well-founded arguments, and contribute thoughtfully to debates about religion, ethics, and philosophy in both academic and professional contexts. The curriculum is structured to provide a well-rounded education, combining historical and contemporary perspectives, and often includes modules in religious studies, moral philosophy, logic, and the philosophical underpinnings of various religious traditions. The Year Abroad not only enhances linguistic and cultural competence but also provides an invaluable opportunity for students to build international networks and gain insights into different philosophical and religious paradigms. Overall, the programme prepares students for diverse careers and advanced study, emphasizing critical engagement, ethical awareness, and intercultural understanding.