BA Philosophy

Philosophy is the most ancient of academic disciplines, yet the uncertainties of modern living make the traditional philosophical challenges, even more, pressing in the 21st century.

During the BA in Philosophy at Southampton, you will gain an in-depth knowledge of the core areas of philosophy while pursuing your own interests through optional modules on the great philosophers and key philosophical topics. You will graduate as an independently-minded, confident individual with the skills required for a successful career.

Programme Structure

You will have every opportunity to develop your own thoughts on philosophical issues and to engage in philosophical debate.

Year one offers lecture-based modules focusing on central themes, designed for students new to philosophy as well as those who have some familiarity with the subject, alongside staff-led tutorials involving three to five students.

In year two you will take a core module in the history of philosophy, accompanied by small-group seminars, and choose from a range of optional modules.

Key Facts

• The unusually wide range of courses, with much of our teaching conducted in genuinely small groups.
• High contact hours, including one-on-one supervision by faculty from your first year.
• The flexible curriculum allows you to design your own path of study.

Typical entry requirements

A Levels: GCE A-level

• AAB to ABB from 3 A Levels.
• Applicants taking the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) will also be made an alternative offer one grade below the standard offer, conditional on an A grade in the EPQ.

IB: International Baccalaureate 34 to 32 points overall with 17 to 16 at Higher Level.

Typical course content

Over each year you take eight modules, or the equivalent, four in each semester.

Learn a language

This programme allows you to take a language module as a free elective. These are split into seven stages, from absolute beginner to near-native speaker level. Please email your Student Office if you have any queries regarding your module options.

Learning and assessment

Our teaching draws upon the cutting-edge research of Southampton's philosophers, all of whom are actively engaged in presenting and publishing their work to international audiences.

We place special emphasis on small group teaching. Alongside lectures, you will participate from your first year of study in tutorials and seminars in which you will explore and develop your own ideas in discussion with fellow students and staff.

You will be assessed by more than just essays and exams. Depending on the modules you choose, you will work in teams, give presentations, submit group projects, develop websites, and manage larger research projects such as dissertations.

Each student is assigned a personal academic tutor, a leading academic who provides help and support at every level of study.

Throughout the degree, we impart advanced skills in reasoning, research, communication, and analysis, skills which, alongside the support offered by the University's career service, will prepare you for further study or a future career.