| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2023-09-26 | 2023-06-01 |
| 2024-01-23 | 2023-10-16 |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
| 2025-01-15 | - |
Program Overview
The MRes Philosophy program at Keele University is a research-focused postgraduate program designed to provide students with a deep and critical understanding of philosophy. It serves as excellent preparation for further research or doctoral study, as well as for careers in diverse fields such as business, government, marketing, policy-making, charitable organizations, education and training, and law.
Program Outline
Philosophy MRes - Keele University
Degree Overview The MRes Philosophy program at Keele University is a research-focused postgraduate program designed to provide students with a deep and critical understanding of philosophy. It serves as excellent preparation for further research or doctoral study, as well as for careers in diverse fields such as:
- Business
- Government
- Marketing
- Policy-making
- Charitable organizations
- Education and training
- Law
Program Objectives:
- Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Enhance analytical and communication abilities
- Foster a strong understanding of philosophical issues and arguments
- Equip students with research skills and expertise
- Prepare graduates for further research or diverse career paths
Outline
Program Content:
The program covers a wide range of topics in philosophy, including:
- Metaphilosophy
- History of philosophy
- Metaphysics of science
- Natural and social kinds
- Political theory
- Philosophy of mind and action
- Religion and the meaning of life
Program Structure:
- Full-time or part-time study options
- Duration: 1 year full-time, 2 years part-time
- Mode of study: Taught modules and dissertation
- Taught modules (total of 90 credits):
- Core modules (4 compulsory modules worth 30 credits each)
- Elective modules (students choose a further 30 credits of electives)
- Dissertation (90 credits): A substantial piece of independent research on a topic of the student's choice
Individual Modules:
Core Modules:
- Metaphilosophy (30 credits)
- Explores the aims, boundaries, methods, and subject matter of philosophy
- Examines key terms and debates in metaphilosophy
- Topics include:
- The nature of philosophical arguments
- Progress in philosophy
- The relationship between theoretical and practical philosophy
- Competing conceptions of philosophy
- Philosophy of the Social Sciences: Part 1 (15 credits)
- Studies the philosophy of social sciences and debates surrounding research methodologies
- Examines the work of key thinkers like Durkheim, Popper, Kuhn, Weber, Adorno, and Foucault
- Covers topics:
- Naturalism
- Relationship between individual and society
- Falsificationism
- Paradigm shifts
- Interpretive tradition
- Critical theory
- Structuralism and post-structuralism
- Individual Research Orientation in Philosophy (30 credits)
- Develops skills and knowledge for managing independent research interests
- Includes activities like:
- Independent research guided by supervisor
- Time management
- Critical approach
- Resource identification
- Guides students in selecting a dissertation topic and conducting relevant research
- Philosophy of the Social Sciences: Part 2 (15 credits)
- Applies acquired knowledge to the dissertation topic
- Reflects on methodological issues related to the dissertation
- Considers questions like:
- Legitimacy of applying philosophy to social issues
- Race, gender, and other social classifications
- Theories of free will and tackling social problems
- Metaphysical nature of social institutions, properties, and facts
Elective Modules:
Students choose 30 credits of elective modules from a diverse range of options offered by the Philosophy department.
Dissertation:
The dissertation is a significant component of the program, constituting 90 credits and requiring independent research to produce a substantial piece of philosophical writing. Students work closely with a supervisor to develop their research, writing, and communication skills, culminating in a comprehensive dissertation demonstrating their knowledge and critical thinking abilities.
Assessment The program employs a combination of assessment methods:
- Essays: Students write essays for various modules, including the core modules and electives.
- Dissertation: This major piece of research is assessed for its intellectual depth, originality, and ability to engage with relevant scholarship.
- Presentations: Students may also be required to present their research findings in seminars or conferences.
Teaching The program utilizes a blended learning approach incorporating various teaching methods:
- Seminars: These small-group discussions foster in-depth exploration of philosophical ideas and encourage student participation and critical thinking.
- Lectures: Leading experts in various philosophical fields deliver lectures to introduce key concepts and theories.
- Independent Research: Students engage in independent research under the guidance of supervisors, which forms the foundation for their dissertation project.
- Guest Lectures: The program hosts regular guest lectures by renowned philosophers from around the world, exposing students to diverse perspectives and cutting-edge research.
Faculty:
The Philosophy department at Keele University comprises a dedicated team of experienced and passionate academics, recognized for their expertise in various areas of philosophy. Each faculty member brings their unique research interests and teaching styles to the program, contributing to a rich and stimulating learning environment.
Unique Approaches:
The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking and independent research skills. This focus is reflected in various aspects of the program, including:
- Individual Research Orientation module: This module guides students in developing the necessary skills and knowledge to independently manage their research interests.
- Dissertation supervision: Students receive close guidance and support from their supervisors throughout the dissertation process.
- Access to research resources: The program provides students with access to extensive library resources, research databases, and opportunities to engage with the wider research community.
Careers The program prepares graduates for diverse career paths, including:
- Academia: Graduates can pursue further research in philosophy or related fields, leading to PhD studies and careers in research or university teaching.
- Government and policy: Students can leverage their analytical and communication skills in various government agencies, policy think tanks, or international organizations.
- Business and industry: The program's emphasis on critical thinking and problem-solving equips graduates for diverse roles in business, including consulting, marketing, and management.
- Law and legal practice: The program provides a strong foundation
Part time £5,400 per year. International - £19,500 per year.
