Start your postgraduate journey with us in 2024
Edinburgh has a proud and distinguished place in the history of philosophy and has long been associated with some of the field’s most important thinkers.
Our Philosophy department, one of the largest in the world, is home to academics leading research into a wide range of topics from ancient and Islamic philosophy to philosophy of racism, feminism and time travel. Keep your studies general or focus on one of the areas of philosophy where we have particular strength.
Take advantage of the world-leading research culture here at Edinburgh, with a wide range of research talks and events connecting our students with leading scholars in the department and beyond. Our interdisciplinary academic community allows you the opportunity to select option courses across different disciplines.
Expand your horizons and forge lifelong connections through innovative and engaging social events organised for the student community throughout the year.
Why study Philosophy at Edinburgh?
- We're ranked 5th in the UK and 22nd in the world for philosophy (QS World University Rankings by subject 2025).
- Edinburgh has a distinguished place in the history of philosophy and continues to offer a wide range of traditional and contemporary topics including ethics, metaphysics, philosophy of race, gender and artificial intelligence.
- The University's reputation with employers stands at an impressive 96.9% (QS World University Rankings 2024).
Showcasing Philosophy at Edinburgh
Postgraduate programmes in Philosophy
Applications are now open for 2024 entry. We operate a gathered field admissions approach with applications being processed in batches throughout the cycle. You can submit your application at any time. Find out more about our programmes and how to apply.
Proposed new programme
We would like to hear your views on a potential new postgraduate opportunity in Applied Ethics.
Take the survey:
Spotlight on research
Internationally-renowned philosophy courses created for learners across the world
Philosophy at Edinburgh is a vibrant international community of over 35 philosophers. Our research excellence has transformed academic and public understanding of the human condition, the natural world, and our place within it. Our research has informed the public worldwide via Massive Open Online Courses attracting over half-million people across 184 sovereign states. It has influenced industrial product design at leading international technology companies as well as the practice of prize-winning artists, museums, and galleries.
Most recently our research into end of life ethics has played a key role in the review of assisted dying legislation in Scotland.
Find out more about the impact philosophy at Edinburgh is making on society:
Spotlight on teaching
Ancient Greek and Islamic Philosophy
The MSc Philosophy programme allows students to specialise in the philosophical traditions of Ancient Greece and Rome, and of the Islamic world. If you are specifically interested in either Ancient or Islamic Philosophy, you have the option of taking several courses in these areas. You can also take courses offered in Classics, History and Islamic Studies.
You may also be able to take a relevant language course in Latin, Greek or Arabic. For students who wish to undertake a dissertation in this area, you will be assigned a specialist supervisor to support you.
The Philosophy department organises a range of talks and reading groups in this area and MSc students are encouraged to participate offering an excellent opportunity to explore this area of philosophy further and meet like-minded individuals.
Our community
As a Philosophy student, you will be part of a thriving and diverse community within the School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Sciences (PPLS). Students are invited to join WhatsApp and/or Discord groups to connect with fellow classmates, and our Philosophy society, one of the oldest student societies in the UK, organises regular events throughout the year.
With around 40 students studying our on-campus programmes and approximately 30 studying online, there are plenty of opportunities to meet new people, develop your subject-area knowledge and have fun in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Student experience
Current position: Associate Professor, John Hopkins University
"There are a number of really wonderful things about the MSc programme. The best thing was the intellectual community. It was a thriving, bright, welcoming intellectual community which made studying philosophy really exciting.
I was surrounded by people who made me feel welcomed, who were encouraging me to push myself but in a very supportive environment – that was just a wonderful experience and it had a huge impact on me. It made me want to do more. Being around this really lively scholarly community was also really good fun."
Connect with us
Feel free to get in touch with our friendly Postgraduate Team with any questions you might have about academic or English language requirements, course information, enquiries about your application and information on arriving at the University.
Postgraduate Research Administration Team (MScR/PhD enquiries):
Email: pplspgoffice@ed.ac.uk
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