BA Hons Philosophy

Study a future-facing, interdisciplinary philosophy degree, where you'll focus on applying theory to practice. Your teaching will be centred around core themes, comprising of: Health, Society and Public Ethics; Technology, Environment and Sustainability; and Human Flourishing and Creative Practice.

Why study a philosophy degree?

By examining life's fundamental questions, philosophy helps to shape the way we think about the world. What are the ethical, political and social questions we need to ask ourselves? How can we change the world using our knowledge?

Exploring questions such as these develops your creativity, rationality and critical thinking skills, enabling you to think carefully about theoretical problems. You'll learn to apply this knowledge to practical situations in the real world, from artificial intelligence to human creativity.

Why study at UWE Bristol?

Study a visionary, future-facing philosophy course that tackles today's key global contemporary issues, such as the impact of new technologies on wellbeing and the environment.

Our philosophy course offers an inclusive opportunity for learners from a broad range of backgrounds to demonstrate their abilities in a variety of ways, from blog journals to public speaking exams.

Through collaborative, interdisciplinary learning that applies theory to practice, you'll gain real world experience, underpinned by traditional philosophical theories and approaches.

You'll learn how to analyse complex issues from different perspectives, present logical, reasoned arguments, and communicate concepts and opinions with clarity and precision. 

UWE Bristol is a member of the British Philosophical Association, meaning you'll benefit from up-to-date resources, information and guidance. We're also a branch of the Royal Institute of Philosophy, a charity for the public understanding of philosophy, who support our public engagement events.

Where can a philosophy degree take me?

Studying BA(Hons) Philosophy will transform you into an innovative thinker who's able to bring new perspectives to many professions. Our graduates are in demand across journalism, law, banking, the creative industries and business management.

You could also work in non-governmental organisations (NGOs) or specialise in teaching, research, counselling, healthcare or social work, offering you broad career opportunities.

• Tariff points: 112
• GCSE: Grade C/4 or above in English Language or Literature and Mathematics, or equivalent. We do not accept Level 2 Key Skills, Functional Skills or Certificate in Adult Literacy and Numeracy as alternatives to GCSEs.
• English Language Requirement: International and EU applicants are required to have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with 5.5 in each component.
• A-level subjects: No specific subjects required.

By the end of our philosophy course, you'll be equipped with the critical thinking, argumentation and communication skills that employers value highly. You'll develop fundamental transferable skills crucial for future employability, such as open-mindedness, entrepreneurship, empathy, and teamwork.

You'll learn to think carefully about theoretical problems, form coherent arguments and articulate your solutions. You'll develop a deep, critical knowledge of key contemporary issues in philosophy, such as mental health, environmental crisis and digital innovation. Plus, you'll analyse important facets of the human experience, such as race, gender and sexuality.

UWE Bristol is a branch of the Royal Institute of Philosophy and members of the British Philosophical Association, ensuring our teaching contains the latest developments in the field. You'll also benefit from our industry connections, offering you professional opportunities such as attending public engagement events.

As graduate from a philosophy degree, you could find employment in a diverse range of sectors. These include education and teaching, academic research, law, finance, the creative industries, healthcare, social work, not-for-profit organisations (NGOs) or the civil service.

Many students also progress to postgraduate study in philosophy, law and other subjects. Visit our employability pages to learn more about careers, employers and what our students are doing six months after graduating.

Our award-winning careers service helps you develop your employment potential through career coaching, a vacancy service for internships, placements, jobs, global opportunities, volunteering and community activity plus support for entrepreneurial activity, and access to employer events.