PhD/MPhil in Philosophy
Work in an inspiring academic environment and be supported by supervisors with a broad range of philosophical expertise.
| Length | Start dates (semester dates) | |
|---|---|---|
| PhD |
3 years full-time |
January |
|
PhD (by distance learning) |
3 years full-time |
January |
| MPhil |
2 years full-time |
January |
Philosophical research challenges prevailing opinion. It advances our understanding of the world towards a more informed, inclusive and sustainable future. Produce inspired original analysis in an intellectual and supportive community at the forefront of research in philosophy.
Your research
At York, the breadth and diversity of our expertise means we are well-positioned to supervise research across a range of fields in philosophy, from ancient Greeks to current discussions of data privacy, AI and the political economy.
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You'll work towards a final thesis of 80,000 words for the PhD or 60,000 words for the MPhil. A typical semester will involve a great deal of independent research, with guidance from your supervisor who will be able to suggest direction and address concerns. You'll work independently in a research environment that thrives on creativity and scholarship.
A research degree will help you to develop your academic, creative and practical skills. You'll have the opportunity to grow your network and participate in an exciting range of events, including seminars, research groups and guest lectures.
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At York, we have research strengths in:
- Aesthetics, art and literature
- History of philosophy (with particular interests in early modern philosophy and German idealism)
- Metaphysics (including philosophy of mathematics and philosophy of time)
- Phenomenology and continental philosophy
- Philosophy of medicine and health
- Philosophy of mind and perception
- Philosophy of religion
- Political and legal philosophy
- Theoretical and applied ethics (including ethics of AI)
Distance learning
We also offer the option of enrolling in a PhD in Philosophy by distance learning. You'll have the flexibility to work from anywhere in the world. You'll attend online research skills training sessions in your first year and have supervision and progression meetings online.
Distance learning students will need to attend campus for two weeks each year. This includes registration and induction, training, meetings with the thesis advisory panel, and our annual PhD Progression Day.
Interdisciplinary community
Join a vibrant postgraduate Arts and Humanities community which includes social and academic events and an inspiring research environment. You'll have opportunities to make personal connections and to think beyond your own subject area.
World Top 100
York is ranked 79th for the study of arts and humanities, in the QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2024.
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Funding
Find funding for postgraduate researchers in the Department of Philosophy.
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Supervision
Explore the expertise of our staff and identify a potential supervisor.
Training and support
You'll be taught and supervised by staff who produce internationally-renowned research, and benefit from the Department's friendly, supportive community.
Throughout your degree, your supervisor will monitor your progress, and will help you to hone the focus of your research.
As you develop your thesis, you'll attend meetings with a Thesis Advisory Panel, consisting of at least one member of staff in addition to your supervisor. You'll meet twice a year (once a year for part-time students) to discuss your research project, as well as professional development and career training.
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Careers and skills
Your PhD or MPhil will give you the ability to apply analytical research for application across a range of philosophical debates. You'll graduate with transferable skills in creative problem-solving, critical analysis, writing, and the ability to craft and execute detailed research projects.
Our dedicated careers team offer specific support, including a programme of professional researcher development and careers workshops and 1:1 career support sessions. They will help you with your employability portfolio, and to engage in activities that will build up your skills and experience within and outside of your research work.
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Course location
This course is run by the Department of Philosophy.
You'll be based on Campus West, though your research may take you further afield.
Distance learning students can study from anywhere in the world, but are expected to attend events and training in York several times per year.
Entry requirements
For research degrees, you'll need to hold a Master's degree in philosophy, or equivalent.
Other relevant experience and expertise may also be considered:
- Evidence of training in research techniques may be an advantage.
- You should be familiar with the recent published work of your proposed supervisor.
- Publications are not required and we don't expect applicants to have been published before they start their research degrees.
Supervisors interview prospective doctoral students to ensure a good supervisory match and to help with funding applications. Most interviews take place via Zoom.
For further details on postgraduate research admissions, contact us.
English language requirements
If English is not your first language you must provide evidence of your ability.
Applying
Identify a supervisor
You should identify a potential supervisor in the Department whose area of research overlaps with yours. We encourage you to contact them to discuss your research proposal before you apply.
You should note your preferred supervisor in your application.
Your research proposal
As an applicant to postgraduate research courses, you'll be asked to submit a clear, well-structured research proposal.
Take a look at the supporting documents you may need for your application.
Submit your application
You can apply and send all your documentation electronically through our online system. You don’t need to complete your application all at once: you can start, save, and finish it later.
We will respond to your application as soon as possible. You may track the status of your application and view any official correspondence online.
Apply for PhD in Philosophy (by distance learning)
Find out more about how to apply.
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