Department of Philosophy | BA Philosophy (with Foundation Year)

BA Philosophy (with Foundation Year) at Durham University

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Gain a deeper understanding of this complex world.

The study of Philosophy confronts profound and important questions that arise in all areas of human life – questions such as ‘What does a flourishing human life look like?’ When you choose a Philosophy degree, you are embarking on a course which will equip you with the skills needed to think carefully and deeply about what matters in a good life, and how individual happiness is related to Friendships, Relationships, Family, Society, the Political System and Culture.

We offer a distinctive, research-led Philosophy curriculum, incorporating considerable levels of variety and choice. Whatever you choose, you will be taught by internationally renowned experts in the field.

At Durham, you will follow one of the widest-ranging Philosophy degrees in the country. Rather than studying one particular school, your degree will equip you with wide-ranging expertise in Anglo-American Analytical Philosophy and Continental Philosophy. Each of these has its own distinctive set of issues and approaches to resolving them. We have special expertise in the Philosophy of Science & Social Science and the History of Science & Medicine. You can also apply to add a placement year or a year abroad  to your degree, increasing the course from three years to four.

Philosophy is a new subject for many students, so in your first year you will follow a range of introductory modules, introducing the fundamental philosophical subject areas.

In your second year, you will further develop the critical skills required for independent learning, and modules also become more specifically focused.

In your third year, you will design and carry out your own dissertation which is the cornerstone of the degree.

Philosophical training will equip you with a range of theoretical and transferable skills, including critical thinking, problem solving, communication, project management, presenting and researching, that will be of value to employers across a range of industries.

Our graduates work in a vast range of employment sectors worldwide, including law, the Civil Service and politics, management, public relations, teaching, journalism, media and publishing, marketing, retail and business, IT and financial services. Examples of recent employers include Penguin, Random House Publishing, Save the Children, Amnesty International and The Guardian.

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A globally outstanding centre of teaching and research excellence, a collegiate community of extraordinary people, a unique and historic setting - Durham is a university like no other!