Philosophy
Entry requirements
An appropriate Master's-level qualification.
Months of entry
January, October
Course content
The MPhil/PhD in Philosophy is an opportunity to undertake a major piece of research under the supervision of someone with academic expertise in your field. We offer supervision in a wide range of philosophical subjects and foster our students' professional development. A number of our recent PhD graduates have permanent academic posts in leading universities.
Most students who plan to do a PhD begin with the MRes. The MRes offers research-based training in philosophy at post-master's level and serves as a foundation for starting an individual PhD project.
Students who are ready to start writing a PhD thesis of up to 75,000 words may apply directly for the MPhil/PhD. Students admitted to the MPhil/PhD are initially enrolled on the MPhil and upgraded to the PhD once they have made sufficient progress.
Find out more about studying Philosophy at Birkbeck.
- Birkbeck enjoys an international reputation for its research in philosophy. We have a flourishing community of research students, and are committed to providing them with a first-rate philosophical training.
- Birkbeck has been highly ranked for the standard of its philosophy research, and especially our research and teaching in the area of feminist philosophy.
- Birkbeck’s research excellence was confirmed in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework with 83% of our research rated world-leading or internationally excellent.
Information for international students
If English is not your first language or you have not previously studied in English, our usual requirement is the equivalent of an International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic Test) score of 6.5, with not less than 6.0 in each of the sub-tests.
If you don't meet the minimum IELTS requirement, we offer pre-sessional English courses and foundation programmes to help you improve your English language skills and get your place at Birkbeck.
Fees and funding
Flexible finance: pay your fees in monthly instalments at no extra cost. Enrol early to spread your costs and reduce your monthly payments.
We offer a range of studentships and funding options to support your research.
Qualification, course duration and attendance options
- MPhil/PhD
- full time48 months
- Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
- part time84 months
- Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
Course contact details
- Name
- Student Advice Service
- studentadvice@bbk.ac.uk
- Phone
- +44 (0)20 3907 0700