PhD Philosophy

Program Overview

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PhD Philosophy

Course Overview

The PhD in Philosophy is an advanced research degree, awarded on the basis of a thesis and an oral viva voce examination. The primary purpose of the PhD is the preparation and presentation of a substantial piece of independent and original academic research, completed in three years if studying full-time and usually six years if studying part-time.

Start and Duration

• Sep, 3 years
• Sep, 6 years
• Jan, 3 years
• Jan, 6 years

Level

• Research
• Research
• Research
• Research

Qualification

• Doctor of Philosophy
• Doctor of Philosophy
• Doctor of Philosophy
• Doctor of Philosophy

UK Fees

• From £8,267 per year*
• From £4,133 per year*
• From £8,267 per year*
• From £4,133 per year*

International Fees

• From £14,500 per year*
• From £7,250 per year*
• From £14,500 per year*
• From £7,250 per year*

Campus

• London
• London
• London
• London

School

• School of Humanities and Social Sciences

About the Course

The PhD in Philosophy is an advanced research degree, awarded on the basis of a thesis and an oral viva voce examination. The primary purpose of the PhD is the preparation and presentation of a substantial piece of independent and original academic research, completed in three years if studying full-time and usually six years if studying part-time.

Defining a Subject for Research

Some students know from the outset the precise subject on which they intend to work. For most, however, the definition of a research proposal is usually a gradual process, with the student starting with a general area of interest, and then focusing on a more closely defined topic as a result of further reading and consultation, usually with the Course Director.

Research Seminars

Graduate students in Philosophy at the University have access to a wide range of research seminars in the course of the academic year. A number of these advanced seminars are exclusively for doctoral students. A further series of seminars are available to all research students in Philosophy (whether Master’s or PhD).

Study Period

The usual period of doctoral research is three years for the those who engage in full-time study, though the University’s Regulations also permit candidates who make particularly rapid progress to apply to the University Research Committee for permission to submit at the end of their second year of study.

Supervision

Every PhD student in School of Humanities is supported by two supervisors. Supervisors are experts in their field of study and support students throughout the PhD.

Supervisors

Supervisors for the PhD at The University of Buckingham include some of the most distinguished scholars working in the field, among them:

• Dr Mikołaj Sławkowski-Rode
• Professor John Cottingham
• Dr Jonathan Price
• Dr Ralph Weir

Entry Requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have a first or upper second-class degree at undergraduate level and a Master’s degree. Students without a Master’s degree and wishing to undertake doctoral research may enrol on the University’s own MA in Philosophy in their first year and upgrade to PhD registration at the start of their second year of full-time study.

Mature Students

Age is no barrier to learning and we welcome all applications from all suitably qualified students.

International Students

We are happy to consider all international applications and if you are an international student, you may find it useful to visit our international pages for details of entry requirements from your home country.

English Levels

If English is not your first language, please check our postgraduate English language requirements.

Selection Process

Candidates apply online, sending in their supporting documents, and will be assessed on this basis by the Director of Research in Philosophy and the Tutor for Graduate Admissions.

Student Contract for Prospective Students

When you are offered a place at the University you will be notified of the student contract between the University and students on our courses of study.

Teaching and Assessment

PhD students undertake supervised but independent research, at the end of which they submit a thesis embodying the results of that research.

After Your Course

The University’s Course Directors, students’ supervisors, and the Research Officer and Tutor for Graduate Students are available to discuss students’ post-graduation plans and how they may utilise most effectively the skills acquired during their studies.

Course Fees

The fees for this course are:

• Start: Sep 2025
  • Type: Full-time (3 Years)
  • 1st Year: £8,266
  • Total cost: £24,800
• Start: Sep 2025
  • Type: Part-time (6 Years)
  • 1st Year: £4,133
  • Total cost: £24,800
• Start: Jan 2026
  • Type: Full-time (3 Years)
  • 1st Year: £8,267
  • Total cost: £24,800
• Start: Jan 2026
  • Type: Part-time (6 Years)
  • 1st Year: £4,133
  • Total cost: £24,800

Scholarships and Bursaries

We have bursaries and scholarships available for both home and international students at undergraduate and postgraduate level, and these are awarded based on location, merit or financial need.

How to Apply

Apply online from this page as:

• You can apply until shortly before the course starts.
• There are no application fees.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Overview:

The University of Buckingham's PhD Philosophy program equips students with the tools and knowledge to conduct independent research and make original contributions to the field. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of philosophical concepts and history.

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Objectives:

The program aims to:

• Develop students' independent research skills.
• Foster a critical and rigorous approach to philosophical inquiry.
• Enable students to make original contributions to the field of philosophy.
• Equip graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary for successful careers in academia, research, and other fields.

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Description:

The program requires students to choose a research topic and work closely with two supervisors throughout their studies. Students are expected to attend regular seminars, participate in discussions, and present their research findings. The program culminates in the submission of a thesis that demonstrates original research and critical analysis.

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Outline:

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Content:

The program covers a wide range of philosophical topics, including:

• Metaphysics
• Epistemology
• Ethics
• Political Philosophy
• History of Philosophy
• Philosophy of Mind
• Philosophy of Language

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Structure:

The program is divided into three years of full-time study or six years of part-time study. Students are required to complete a series of coursework modules and a research thesis.

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Course Schedule:

The program offers a variety of coursework modules throughout the year. These modules are typically taught in seminar format and focus on specific philosophical topics.

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Modules:

Examples of coursework modules offered include:

• Classic Texts in Philosophy
• Contemporary Debates in Philosophy
• Philosophy of Science
• Philosophy of Religion
• Philosophy of Law

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

Students are assessed through a variety of methods, including:

• Essays
• Presentations
• Research papers
• Thesis
• Originality of research
• Critical thinking
• Analytical skills
• Clarity of writing
• Depth of knowledge

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Seminars
• Lectures
• Tutorials
• Independent research

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Faculty:

The program boasts a faculty of experienced and internationally renowned philosophers.

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Unique Approaches:

The program places a strong emphasis on independent research and encourages students to develop their own philosophical perspectives.

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Careers:

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Career Paths:

Graduates of the program pursue careers in a variety of fields, including:

• Academia
• Research
• Education
• Journalism
• Law
• Business

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Career Opportunities:

The program opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities, both within and outside academia.

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Outcomes:

Graduates consistently report high levels of satisfaction with their career prospects and employment opportunities.

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Other:

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Seminars:

The program features a strong seminar culture, offering students the opportunity to engage with leading philosophers and discuss cutting-edge research.

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Library:

The program provides students with access to a comprehensive library of philosophical texts and resources.

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Location:

The program is based in London, offering students access to a vibrant intellectual community and cultural hub.

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Conclusion:

The University of Buckingham's PhD Philosophy program provides a rigorous and comprehensive education for aspiring philosophers. The program's emphasis on independent research, critical thinking, and original contributions to the field prepares graduates for successful careers in academia and beyond.

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• UK: £8,267 per year
• INT: £14,500 per year
Course fees do not include additional costs such as books, equipment, writing up fees and other ancillary charges. Where applicable, these additional costs will be made clear.