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

The programme is comprised of modules and a minor dissertation combined to a total 120 credits. The modules run on a cycle and students choose 5 modules out of the list below in the relevant cycle. This minor dissertation should be between 25,000 and 30,000 words in length (excluding bibliography and appendices). 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 Below are the modules offered on the Master in Philosophy Research (subject to change); students undertake 5 of these modules whilst preparing their minor dissertation:





Overview of Postgraduate Modules



Cycle A [beginning even numbered year]



Code Title Semester Comment



PY09406 Texts in Modern Philosophy 1

PY09408 Political Theology 1

PY09411 Ancient Philosophy 1

PY09407 Themes from the Philosophy of Thomas Aquinas 2

PY09409 Philosophy of God 2

PY09412 Medieval Philosophy 2



Cycle B [beginning odd numbered year]



PY09401 Philosophical Themes in Ancient and Medieval Thought: Metaphysics, Epistemology, Ethics 1

PY09403 Mind and World 1

PY09410 Females Voices in Religious Philosophy 1

PY09404 Philosophy, Science, and Nature 2

PY09402 Perspectives on Selfhood 2

PY09405 Creation and Desire 2



Academic Life

PG 903 Corley Research Seminar Yearlong Qualifier

PG 901 Various Research Support Yearlong Qualifier



Mode B / Pure Research

The Masters in Philosophy (Mode B / Pure Research) 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 University. 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.

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:



30th June

For EU & those living on the island of Ireland (Late applications may be considered).



31st May

For non EU

2 years full-time.

Course Start Date: September 2026