1.2 Researching the Right Philosophy Degree for You

Students interested in doing an undergraduate PhilosophyThe study of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, and ethics. degree in the UK have a range of options. Some universities offer single honours degrees focused solely on Philosophy, while others offer joint honoursA split undergraduate degree where a student can study two different subjects, possibly unrelated, equally. degrees where students can study Philosophy alongside another subjectThe person, place, thing, or idea the clause is about; performs or experiences the verb.. In this section, we will look at the options available.

Single Honours Courses

Single honours courses in Philosophy offer an in-depth exploration of the subject. They typically include a wide range of modules that cover the core topics, which are known as “branches” in Philosophy.

The topics generally covered include:

• EpistemologyThe theory and study of knowledge.: The investigation of knowledge and belief.
• EthicsIn Philosophy, the theory and study of morality and how we should behave.: The examination of moral principles and how they apply to human conduct.
• LogicThe study of correct reasoning.: The analysis of reasoning and arguments.
• MetaphysicsA branch of Philosophy that explores the nature of reality.: The exploration of the nature of reality and existence.
• Philosophy of MindA branch of Philosophy that seeks to understand the nature of the mind and the nature of consciousness.: The evaluationMaking judgements about how effective a text or technique is. of the nature of consciousnessThe state of being aware and perceiving the world. and mental states.
• Political Philosophy: The study of concepts such as justice, power, and the state.

Most single honours Philosophy degrees in the UK cover the four core branches, which are Metaphysics, Epistemology, Ethics, and Logic. After the four core branches, students often get to choose “elective” or advanced courses in their areas of interest, for example, Philosophy of ScienceA branch of Philosophy that studies the methods, principles, and assumptions of Science., Philosophy of Language, Political Philosophy, or specific philosophers.

The range of schools of thought and specific thinkers varies depending on the particular university course. For example, more traditional programs such as the Universities of Oxford and the University of Cambridge have an emphasis on classical Philosophy, covering some of the most well-known thinkers such as Plato, Aristotle, and Kant. However, on more modern-focused programs such as the Universities of Sussex and Warwick, there is a focusWhat the writer draws attention to at a given moment (e.g., setting, character, detail). on current and interdisciplinaryInvolving two or more academic disciplines or areas of knowledge. topics such as ExistentialismThe theory that humans have free will to determine the course of their own lives., Feminism, or the Philosophy of Technology.