Philosophy - Research

The Structured MA in Philosophy is a one-year, full-time (two-years, part-time) programme that allows students to further their interest in Philosophical studies with particular emphasis on Public/Applied Philosophy and Post-Kantian European Philosophy. This course provides high-achieving graduates an opportunity to gain to gain a broader and deeper knowledge of their chosen area and to familiarise themselves with contemporary research and debates relevant to the study of Philosophy. Research activity in Philosophy at University of Galway focuses on four main areas:



Philosophy of Nature / Philosophy of Technology

Environmental Ethics / Political Philosophy

Philosophy of Children (P4C) / Applied Ethics

Metaphysics / Philosophy of value



We work on a range of topics across the systematic areas of Philosophy and historically ranging from the Early Moderns to the present day. We have particular expertise in the work of such figures as Kant, Nietzsche, Heidegger, Gadamer, Marion, and Arendt. Within public and applied philosophy, we cover such areas as research ethics, health care ethics, ethics in information technologies, questions of social engagement and art, justice and disability and ethical issues to do with big data, AI and robotics.



Over the course of the programme, students will take between 30 to 35 ECTS worth of taught modules, at least one of which (minimum 5 ECTS) must be dedicated to research methods/integrity. Students on this programme will complete an independent research project or dissertation weighted at either 55 or 60 ECTS (depending on the number of ECTS devoted to taught modules). Each student will be assigned a primary supervisor and a graduate research committee made up of experienced researchers to plan their programme of study and to provide on-going support for their research.

Level 8 qualification with a minimum 2.1 (or North American 3.2 GPA or equivalent) honours degree in Philosophy or a Cognate Discipline.



A minimum IELTS score of 6.5 (or equivalent) is required of applicants whose first language is not English.

Structured Master of Arts (Philosophy) full-time, one year.

Structured Master of Arts (Philosophy), part-time, two years.