If you’re thinking of studying philosophy at university, then we’re here to help! We’ve highlighted some of the top universities in the UK for studying this fascinating subject.
Updated: 18 Jan 2026
As a philosophy student, you’ll be tackling some of life’s biggest questions. One of these questions you’ll have to tackle before you even start – which university should you go to? To help you make your decision, we’ve consulted with some of history’s greatest thinkers (much like you will on your degree), also known as the Complete University Guide. Using their 2026 philosophy league tables, we’ve put together a list of the top unis across different criteria. So, get your thinking hat on and start pondering whether any of these might be the right fit for you.
Swansea University
Swansea University prides itself on delivering an outstanding learning and teaching experience, led by enthusiastic and highly knowledgeable academic teams. The academics aim to inspire students and provide a positive and supportive learning environment.
NEXT: Read what students think of the Swansea University.
Cardiff University
Cardiff University dates back to 1883 and has a strong reputation for high-quality research, so it’s no surprise that it’s ranked top for research quality in the philosophy league tables. Studying here, you’ll be in the capital city of Wales, with plenty to see and explore throughout your degree. The uni also has a strong sporting community and offers world-class campus facilities in a surprisingly affordable location.
NEXT: Read what students think of philosophy at Cardiff University.
London School of Economics and Political Science
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) is one of the most well-respected social science universities in the world. Founded in 1895, it offers one of the world’s largest social science libraries and 19 research centres, so students will find the uni well-equipped. Its central London location offers students everything they could need from their uni experience, and the local transport network of buses and trains makes travel across the city and further afield easy.
NEXT: Read what students think of London School of Economics and Political Science.
London School of Economics and Political Science
A hugely influential university has come top in England for philosophy students – it's the London School of Economics and Political Science. Specialising in social sciences, LSE takes an in-depth look at societies, allowing students to really get an insight into people, which most certainly would help when learning about philosophy.
NEXT: Read what students think of London School of Economics and Political Science.
University of St. Andrews
With a history dating back to 1413, the University of St. Andrews is one of the oldest in the world. The town itself is situated around 55 miles from Edinburgh and is home to around 8,000 undergraduate students. Many famous names have studied here, from Benjamin Franklin to JM Barrie to Prince William and Kate Middleton. The university is world-famous for its research and teaching quality, meaning degrees from here are held in very high esteem.
NEXT: Read what students think of philosophy at the University of St. Andrews.
Cardiff University
Cardiff University makes its second feature on this list, having come top in the philosophy league tables for research quality as well as being the top university in Wales offering philosophy. Quite the achievement!
NEXT: Read what students think of philosophy at Cardiff University.
Queen’s University Belfast
Queen’s University Belfast is the only university to offer philosophy in Northern Ireland, but just because it had no competition doesn’t mean it hasn’t earned its place on this list. As a member of the Russell Group, the uni is research-driven and is internationally recognised for its high research standards. Located just a short distance from the centre of Northern Ireland’s capital city, the uni offers stunning buildings and high-quality teaching facilities to over 17,000 undergraduate students.
London School of Economics and Political Science
Congratulations to the LSE for not only being top of the England league tables for philosophy, but top across the whole of the UK!