Why choose this course?

Studies begin with a module on Kant and his legacy. You then choose five optional modules. Choices include foundational texts and thinkers of the modern European tradition (Kant, Hegel, Marx, Nietzsche, Heidegger) and 20th- and 21st-century philosophy and critical theory, including psychoanalysis. You will prepare your dissertation (25,000–30,000 words), working closely with a supervisor, using a method of working modelled on PhD supervision, which provides excellent preparation for PhD study. You will attend philosophical research methods seminars and participate in reading groups related to your dissertation and interests.

What you will study

Studies begin with a compulsory module on Kant and his legacy, though you can choose whether to focus on his first critique, The Critique of Pure Reason, or his third, The Critique of the Power of Judgement. You will then choose five modules covering some of the foundational texts and thinkers of the modern European tradition (Kant, Hegel, Marx, Nietzsche, Heidegger) and 20th and 21st-century philosophy and critical theory, including psychoanalysis.

Teaching and assessment

The course is delivered through relatively small seminars, which involve a mixture of structured lectures or presentations, textual analysis, and group discussion.

After you graduate

Many of our graduates often progress to research degrees in European philosophy and critical theory.