Course details
- Entry requirements: Related 2:1 degree (or equivalent)
- Full-time: 12 months
- Part-time: 24 months
This degree gives you access to the very wide range of philosophical topics and expertise available in the Department. It's an excellent preparation for research in philosophy, as well as being an attractive postgraduate course in itself.
The programme is specifically designed to equip students with the competence and understanding needed to pursue philosophical research, while also acquiring skills that are valued by a broad range of employers.
Teaching is focussed on two main seminar modules, Religion, Ethics and Practical Philosophy and Metaphysics, Language and Mind. In addition, you will choose three elective modules from across Philosophy and the School of the Arts.
You will write a dissertation—an extended piece of independent research conducted under the guidance of an academic expert. You will be actively encouraged to participate in the research activities of the Department and to take advantage of our programme of world-renowned visiting speakers.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
International students may be able to study this course on a part-time basis but this is dependent on visa regulations. Please visit the Government website for more information about student visas.
If you're able to study part-time, you'll study the same modules as the full-time master's degree over a longer period, usually 24 months. You can make studying work for you by arranging your personal schedule around lectures and seminars which take place during the day. After you complete all the taught modules, you will complete your final dissertation or project and will celebrate your achievements at graduation the following term.
Studying part-time means you can study alongside work or any other life commitments. You will study the same modules as the full-time master's degree over a longer period, usually 24 months. You can make studying work for you by arranging your personal schedule around lectures and seminars which take place during the day. After you complete all the taught modules, you will complete your final dissertation or project and will celebrate your achievements at graduation the following term.
This module introduces current issues in ethics, philosophy of religion and practical philosophy, as considered by current staff actively researching them. This research-led module serves both to introduce students with no previous detailed knowledge of the areas studied to such issues, and to show how active researchers approach them while actively engaging students themselves in research methodology and practices. The module thus functions both as a research-preparation module and a module for consolidating knowledge in these areas of philosophy.
This module is designed to assist students in enhancing the research and professional skills needed for postgraduate study of philosophy and for the conduct of future research in the subject or a career outside academia. It is taught via synchronous methods and online asynchronous materials. Over the whole session, there are regular workshops covering key skills for research and for professional life. These are supplemented, in Semester 1, by seminars on ‘’Philosophy through Words’ that consider the philological development of philosophically significant terms. In Semester 2, students study formal reasoning.
Students will write a dissertation (15,000 words, maximum) on a topic that they have researched in depth, under the guidance of their supervisors. There will also be two seminar sessions focusing on the development of dissertation preparation and writing skills.
The module intends to facilitate in-depth understanding of central themes of aesthetics and art theory, especially questions about aesthetic judgement, aesthetic experience and aesthetic value. Students will be able to further their knowledge of the history of philosophy as well as the connection between theory and artistic practice. The module is taught by seminar 1 hour per week; students are also advised to attend the PHIL 306 Aesthetics lecture 1 hour per week. Assessment is via a 3,000 essay. Students also take it in turns to give one 10-15 minute presentation in class, formative assessment.
The module will provide a survey of some of the most significant debates in contemporary philosophy of mind; the topics of consciousness, perception and artificial intelligence will be examined in detail.
This module introduces students to issues in metaphysics, philosophy of language and philosophy of mind, as these are researched by current staff actively researching them. This research-led module serves both to introduce students with no previous detailed knowledge of the areas studied to such issues, and to show how active researchers approach them while actively engaging students themselves in research methodology and practices. The module thus functions both as a research-preparation module and a module for consolidating knowledge in these areas of philosophy. Students will research a topic and participate in a 15-20 minute group oral presentation. In discussion with tutors students will choose one of the topics discussed and write a 4,500 word essay.
Students will write a dissertation (15,000 words, maximum) on a topic that they have researched in depth, under the guidance of their supervisors. There will also be two seminar sessions focusing on the development of dissertation preparation and writing skills.
This module is designed to assist students in enhancing the research and professional skills needed for postgraduate study of philosophy and for the conduct of future research in the subject or a career outside academia. It is taught via synchronous methods and online asynchronous materials. Over the whole session, there are regular workshops covering key skills for research and for professional life. These are supplemented, in Semester 1, by seminars on ‘’Philosophy through Words’ that consider the philological development of philosophically significant terms. In Semester 2, students study formal reasoning.
This module will help students to gain detailed insight into key contemporary debates in the philosophy of religion (predominantly in the Western tradition). Students will have the opportunity to confront and respond to challenges that arise, metaphysically and epistemologically, in this field. Questions that arise include whether ‘God-talk’ is merely nonsense, as some have claimed. Is the concept of ‘God’ even logically consistent? What is the relationship between faith and reason? How serious a threat is posed to coherent religious belief by the existence of evil and suffering?
This module considers what it is to think philosophically about the nature of film. It critically discusses philosophical approaches to the medium. It examines the thinking of philosophers, critics and filmmakers on vital issues encountered when discussing film as art. It considers the importance of film and its relation to other art forms. It familiarises students with works by key filmmakers, and encourages students to engage with these works. The module will enhance students’ abilities to think critically about fundamental issues surrounding film, and about what philosophers, critics and filmmakers have said about the medium. It is taught through weekly seminars (1 hour per week) and film screenings. Assessment is by one 3,000 word essay.
This module will familiarise students with the various traditions of belief and practice associated with ‘Hinduism’ and ‘Buddhism’. It will help students to understand the ways in which Indian philosophers have considered topics that are also discussed in the Western traditions and provided distinctive approaches to them. There will be one seminar per week. Students are also encouraged to attend the undergraduate lectures on Indian Philosophy. Assessment is by one 3,000 word essay.
Over the summer you will continue to work on and complete your dissertation.
Students will write a dissertation (15,000 words, maximum) on a topic that they have researched in depth, under the guidance of their supervisors. There will also be two seminar sessions focusing on the development of dissertation preparation and writing skills.
Teaching is delivered through a combination of seminars and workshops held on campus. Depending on which module options are taken, there may be lectures and separate seminar sessions scheduled.
Class sizes for master’s programmes in the Department of Philosophy tend to be small, and a typical class in Philosophy will include between 8-10 students.
You will mainly be assessed by a combination of formative and summative coursework. This will take a number of different forms, including essays, essay plans, research proposals, a reflective journal and a dissertation.
In addition, you will be assessed by presentations in certain modules. Other assessment formats may apply also depending on the options modules taken.
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
The Department of Philosophy is based in the School of the Arts, although teaching will take place across the campus. Our staff and students have created an environment where critical, independent thinking flourishes, in a city that has a long tradition of welcoming radical thinkers and philosophers. Our friendly, down-to-earth atmosphere makes the exchange of ideas enjoyable, as well as intellectually stimulating.
From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:
The support from tutors has been great. I’ve found that they are willing to chat about anything even if it’s not linked to their designated role with you. Whether that’s academic, professional, or personal advice. It’s nice to know that if you’re stuck with your ideas or have questions about certain aspects of academic life they are on hand to help.
Want to find out more about student life?
Chat with our student ambassadors and ask any questions you have.
Our programmes aim to equip you with the general and widely applicable analytical, argumentative, and problem-solving skills valued by employers. By placing emphasis on the intersection between philosophical research and curatorial practice, this programme especially equips graduates for further academic research and an international career in the arts.
Some of our postgraduate students have gone on to a career in academic Philosophy, other career destinations of our graduates include business, curating, cultural management, the media, the civil service and education.
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland) | |
---|---|
Full-time place, per year | £10,000 |
Part-time place, per year | £5,000 |
International fees | |
---|---|
Full-time place, per year | £21,400 |
Part-time place, per year | £10,700 |
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,167 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about tuition fees, funding and Postgraduate Loans.
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.
Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries to help cover tuition fees and help with living expenses while at university.
The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.
My qualifications are from: United Kingdom.
Your qualification | Requirements |
---|---|
Postgraduate entry requirements |
You will normally need a 2:1 honours degree, or above, or equivalent. This degree should be in philosophy or a related arts and humanities subject. |
International qualifications |
If you hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, but don’t meet our entry requirements, you could be eligible for a Pre-Master’s course. This is offered on campus at the University of Liverpool International College, in partnership with Kaplan International Pathways. It’s a specialist preparation course for postgraduate study, and when you pass the Pre-Master’s at the required level with good attendance, you’re guaranteed entry to a University of Liverpool master’s degree. |
You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language. International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
English language qualification | Requirements |
---|---|
IELTS |
D View our IELTS academic requirements key. |
International Baccalaureate |
Higher Level (Grade 5) |
TOEFL iBT | 88 or above with minimum scores in components as follows: Listening 19, Writing 21, Reading 19, Speaking 20. |
INDIA Standard XII | 70% or above from Central and Metro State Boards |
WAEC | C4-6 |
Hong Kong use of English AS level | C |
Discover more about the city and University.
Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.
To fully immerse yourself in the university experience living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.
Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.
Have a question about this course or studying with us? Our dedicated enquiries team can help.
Last updated 23 March 2023 / / Programme terms and conditions /