Philosophy
The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Philosophy at the University of Manchester is a three-year, full-time program that provides students with a rigorous foundation in philosophical thought, ethics, logic, and metaphysics. The program covers key areas of philosophy, including the history of philosophy, contemporary philosophy, and the application of philosophical reasoning to modern issues in society, science, and politics.
Students will engage with the work of major philosophers and develop critical thinking, reasoning, and argumentative skills. The program prepares graduates for careers in academia, law, education, publishing, or public policy, where they can use their philosophical training to address complex ethical, social, and political issues.
Key information
Key Facts
Program Title: Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Philosophy
Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Duration: 3 years
Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
Application Deadline: 14th January 2026
Location: University of Manchester, United Kingdom
Field of Study: Philosophy
Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations of Philosophy
- Introduction to Philosophy
- Ethics and Moral Philosophy
- Logic and Critical Thinking
- Ancient Philosophy: Pre-Socratics to Plato
- History of Western Philosophy
Year 2 – Intermediate Philosophy Studies
- Modern Philosophy: Descartes to Kant
- Metaphysics and Epistemology
- Political Philosophy
- Philosophy of Science
- Philosophy of Mind
Year 3 – Advanced Philosophy and Research
- Contemporary Philosophy
- Philosophy of Language
- Philosophy of Religion
- Final Research Project in Philosophy
- Elective Modules in Specialized Philosophical Topics
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Philosophy program are well-prepared for careers in education, research, and public policy. Potential roles include philosopher, educator, policy analyst, ethicist, or researcher in academic and cultural institutions. The program’s focus on critical thinking and analytical skills opens career opportunities in law, publishing, journalism, and non-profit sectors. Graduates may also work in business consulting or governmental advisory roles, particularly in ethics and decision-making. Many continue their studies at the postgraduate level in philosophy or related disciplines such as law, political science, or theology.
Why Choose This Program
This program provides a comprehensive exploration of philosophical ideas, traditions, and methods, equipping students with the tools to think critically and argue effectively. With an emphasis on both historical and contemporary philosophical topics, students will engage with key philosophical questions about ethics, knowledge, existence, and society. The program encourages independent thinking and develops skills in argumentation and analysis, preparing graduates for a wide range of careers in academic, governmental, and private sectors. The flexibility of the curriculum allows students to tailor their studies to their specific philosophical interests, making it an excellent foundation for further academic or professional pursuits.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +44 (0)161 275 5252
Email: admissions@manchester.ac.uk
Address: University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, United Kingdom
