Philosophy - Research

The programme for degree of Master’s in Philosophy (MPhil) offers candidates the opportunity to deepen their knowledge of Philosophy through specialised study, personal work and research. The programme is worth 120 ECTS.

This programme is designed to facilitate students who are committed to long term research, within the Christian tradition. As such, it is a a direct route into the Doctoral programme.

There are two methods of obtaining this degree by research.

• Mode A / Structured Research: candidates complete five seminar courses and write a Minor dissertation (25,000-30,000 words).
• Mode B / Pure Research: candidates submit a Major Dissertation (40,000 words) and complete a requirement in research methodology.

MPhil
Mode A / Structured Research

Along with the writing of the thesis, students as a rule will be expected to (i) undertake a research and methodology module, (ii) complete five seminar modules offered by the faculty and (iii) contribute to public speaking events in the life of the College.

Candidates must complete Postgraduate Induction week.

The topic of research is determined in discussion with the Faculty of Philosophy and an appropriate supervisor is appointed.

The dissertation shall be examined by the dissertation supervisor and an external examiner chosen by the Faculty. Candidates may be examined on the subject matter of the dissertation if the above examiners so decide.

Mode B / Pure Research

The Mphil (Mode B / Pure Research) is a two-year (full time) programme and consists of specialised research on a chosen topic culminating in the production of a 40,000 word thesis (excluding footnotes and bibliography)

Along with the writing of the thesis, students as a rule will be expected to (i) undertake a research and methodology module, (ii) participate in modules offered by the faculty, if relevant to the topic of research, and (iii) contribute to public speaking events in the life of the College.

The topic of research is determined in discussion with the Faculty of Philosophy and an appropriate supervisor is appointed.

Candidates must complete Postgraduate Induction week.

Candidates shall be required to submit their dissertations within two years. Extensions may be granted for one year in exceptional circumstances.

The dissertation shall be examined by the dissertation supervisor and an external examiner chosen by the Faculty. Candidates may be examined on the subject matter of the dissertation if the above examiners so decide.

Overview of Postgraduate Modules

Cycle A Code Lecturer(s) Title Semester Comment
PY401 DR Gaven Kerr Philosophical Themes in Ancient and Medieval Thought: Metaphysics, Epistemology, Ethics 1
PY 402 Dr Philip Gonzales Perspectives on Selfhood 1
PY 403 DR Gaven Kerr Mind and World 2
PY 404 DR Gaven Kerr Philosophy, Science, Nature 2
PY 405 DR Philip Gonzales Creation And Desire 2

Cycle B
PY 406 DR Gaven Kerr Texts in Modern Philosophy 1
PY 408 DR Philip Gonzales Political Theology 1
PY 407 DR Gaven Kerr Themes from the Philosophy of Thomas Aquinas 2
PY 409 DR Philip Gonzales Philosophy of God 2

Academic Life
PG 903 Corley Research Seminar Yearlong Qualifier
PG 901 Various Research Support Yearlong Qualifier

The minimum entry requirement is an honours primary degree in which Philosophy comprises at least an equal joint honours component. Candidates should have obtained at least Second Class Honours, Grade I or equivalent overall.

The Faculty of Philosophy will also consider applications from candidates whose primary degree is in a subject cognate with philosophy and which comprises a significant philosophical component as determined by the admissions board for the faculty.

An interview will be part of the selection procedure. The candidate will be expected to submit a proposed topic for research and a short abstract; this will be discussed during the interview.

Candidates are expected to show evidence of knowledge of a second language relative to their research. Candidates whose first language is not English will be required to satisfy the English language requirement of the Faculty of Philosophy. Candidates will normally be expected to register year by year on a continuous basis until they have completed their degree. Candidates wishing to suspend registration may do so only on the express permission of the Faculty

Application Deadline: 02nd August 2024
For EU & those living on the island of Ireland (Late applications may be considered).
31st May 2024 For non EU

2 years full-time

Course Start Date: September 2024