Modules

Core modules Important information  We are planning to make changes to our Philosophy MA degree for 2025 entry. Our core modules will undergo approval through the University's rigorous academic processes. As changes are confirmed, we will update the course information on this webpage. It is therefore very important that you check this webpage for the latest information before you apply and prior to accepting an offer. Research Methods What is it to do research in philosophy? Among other things, it is to engage in philosophers' particular ways of "doing philosophy", which manifest themselves in particular ways of arguing, writing, and discussing. What is distinctive about philosophy is that right from the earliest Presocratic thinkers up to the present day, this activity of doing philosophy is itself subject to philosophical investigation and reflection. In this module, you will become part of this tradition, by both improving and reflecting on and improving your practice of doing philosophy. Read more about the Research Methods module, including the methods of teaching and assessment (content applies to 2023/24 year of study). Optional modules You will be expected to take a further three optional modules, and previous module options have included:

• Metaphysics and Epistemology

• Time, Process and Experience

• Appearance Matters

• Mind and Language

• Moral and Political Philosophy

• Vagueness

• Hegel's Aesthetics

• Nietzsche

• 20th Century French Philosophy

• Kant’s Critique of Pure Reason

• Heidegger’s Being and Time

• Embodiment, Nature, Art: Merleau-Ponty’s Phenomenology

Assessment method

You will submit assessed essays during the academic terms. You will also begin planning your dissertation and generally you will undertake your supervision sessions for this with your agreed supervisor during the summer term. As long as you pass your taught components, you will then focus on completion of your MA dissertation in the summer months (July and August).