Online Masters in Philosophy and Society

Program Overview

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The University of Aberdeen's online Masters in Philosophy and Society equips graduates to apply philosophical thinking to real-world challenges, engage with the public, and conduct impactful research. This flexible program offers a range of formats (MLitt, PgDip, PgCert) and is taught by experienced academics, providing students with the skills and knowledge for successful careers in diverse sectors.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Program:

Online Masters in Philosophy and Society

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Institution:

University of Aberdeen

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Learning Mode:

Online

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Study Level:

Postgraduate

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SCQF Level:

11

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Credits:

180 (MLitt), 120 (PgDip), 60 (PgCert)

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Typical Duration:

27 months (MLitt), 18 months (PgDip), 8 months (PgCert)

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Start Months:

September or January

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Description:

This unique online Masters degree allows you to:

• Apply philosophical thinking in real-world situations.
• Use philosophy to address contemporary societal challenges.
• Engage with the public and make an impact with philosophical research.
• Develop hands-on experience in knowledge exchange and communication.

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Objectives:

• Equip graduates with the ability to apply philosophical concepts, arguments, theories, and methods to real-world problems.
• Empower graduates to communicate philosophical findings effectively to diverse audiences.
• Enable graduates to conduct independent research with potential for societal impact.
• Provide graduates with hands-on experience in knowledge exchange with non-academic organizations.

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Target Audience:

• Graduates from any discipline interested in applying philosophical content and analysis to their field.
• Philosophy graduates seeking to apply their knowledge and skills in non-academic careers, pursue postgraduate research, or work in academia.

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Outline:

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Program Structure:

• Offered in three formats: MLitt (180 credits), PgDip (120 credits), PgCert (60 credits).
• Each format consists of a combination of taught courses and independent research.
• Courses cover a range of topics, including:
• Philosophy and Society
• Readings in Philosophy and Society
• Impact and Engagement in Philosophy
• Methods and Skills for Philosophy
• Dissertation (MLitt only)

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Course Schedule:

• Courses are offered in two intakes per year, starting in September or January.
• Each course typically lasts for one term (12 weeks).
• Students can choose to study full-time (30 credits per term) or part-time (15 credits per term).
• All courses are delivered online through the University's Virtual Learning Environment (MyAberdeen).

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Individual Module Descriptions:

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Philosophy and Society:

Introduces students to the key concepts and issues in philosophy, with a focus on their application to contemporary society.

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Readings in Philosophy and Society:

Provides students with an opportunity to engage with a variety of philosophical texts.

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Impact and Engagement in Philosophy:

Equips students with the skills and knowledge to engage effectively with the public and make an impact with their philosophical work.

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Methods and Skills for Philosophy:

Develops students' research and writing skills, as well as their ability to analyze and evaluate arguments.

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Dissertation (MLitt only):

An original research project on a topic chosen by the student, supervised by a member of the academic staff.

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

• A variety of assessment methods are used, including essays, presentations, exams, and projects.
• Assessment criteria are specific to each individual course and are clearly communicated to students at the start of the term.
• Students receive regular feedback on their work from their tutors.

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• Teaching is delivered through a combination of online lectures, tutorials, and independent study.
• Students have access to extensive online resources, including recordings of lectures, lecture notes, and discussion forums.

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Faculty:

• The program is taught by a team of experienced and research-active academics from the University of Aberdeen's School of Divinity, History, Philosophy and Art History.
• All faculty members have expertise in philosophy and a strong commitment to teaching and student learning.

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Unique Approaches:

• The program is designed to be flexible and accessible to students from all over the world.
• Students can study at their own pace and do not need to relocate to Aberdeen to complete their studies.
• The program is firmly grounded in research and offers students the opportunity to conduct their own research projects.

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Careers:

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Potential Career Paths:

• Graduates of the program can pursue careers in a variety of sectors, including:
• Education
• Healthcare
• Government
• Journalism
• Non-profit organizations
• Public policy
• Research
• Social work

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Career Opportunities:

• The program prepares students for a wide range of professional opportunities, including:
• Analyst
• Consultant
• Educator
• Policy advisor
• Researcher
• Scientist
• Social worker
• Writer

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Career Outcomes:

• The program has a strong track record of producing graduates who are successful in their chosen careers.
• Many graduates go on to further study at PhD level or secure employment in demanding and rewarding roles.

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Other:

• The program is ranked 1st in the UK for Philosophy in the 2023 National Student Survey.
• The University of Aberdeen is ranked 7th in the UK for Philosophy in the Guardian University Guide 2024.
• Graduates of the program are eligible to apply for membership of the British Philosophical Association.