1st
Philosophy department in the UK in the Research Excellence Framework exercise 2021 based on Grade Point Average
(Times Higher Education)
Postgraduate study in Philosophy
Want to explore key philosophical issues affecting our current world? At Birmingham, we focus on philosophy with real-world relevance.
Pursue your passions with our range of postgraduate courses across Philosophy, Ethics, and Philosophy, Mental Health Psychology.
You'll benefit from our research expertise - our academic staff are experts in all core areas of contemporary philosophy, as well as several speciality and interdisciplinary fields.
Our postgraduate students play an active role in the life of the Department, organising and contributing to activities such as our various research seminars, regular workshops and conferences, and popular reading groups.
Why study Philosophy at Birmingham?
- Top 2
We’re consistently one of the top UK universities targeted by leading graduate employers
High Fliers ‘Graduate Market in 2026’ report
- Top 100
in the world for Arts and Humanities
QS World University Rankings 2025
The staff here are passionate about what they teach and are really supportive while also having classes that challenge our preconceived notions of the world.
Our postgraduate degrees
- MA Philosophy
- MSc Philosophy, Mental Health and Psychology
- MA/Diploma Philosophy of Religion and Ethics
- MA Philosophy of Religion and Ethics by Distance Learning
- MA International Law, Ethics and Politics
- MSc Global Ethics and Justice
- MSc Global Ethics and Justice by Distance Learning
- MRes Philosophy
- PhD Philosophy (on campus or by distance learning)
- PhD Global Ethics (on campus or by distance learning)
Postgraduate scholarships available
Learn more about our scholarshipsThe College of Arts and Law is offering a range of scholarships for our postgraduate taught and research programmes to ensure that the very best talent is nurtured and supported.
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Find out more about your subject area, stay up-to-date with the latest scholarships and receive invites to our postgraduate events.