Philosophy - Research

Overview

The Department of Philosophy has a strong international reputation for innovative research, across a wide range of specialist research strengths. These include: Applied Ethics, Philosophy of Science, Epistemology, Political Philosophy, and the Philosophy of Religion. In each of these areas, important and pioneering work has been published by members of staff and major projects of research are ongoing. Postgraduate students are supervised by leading researchers in their philosophical field, and are encouraged to contribute to the School’s vibrant research calendar of events, workshops, reading groups and conferences.



We pride ourselves on our global outlook within the School. This is reflected in our wide range of international partners and in the diverse nationalities represented across the staff and student bodies. The School hosts international visitors and speakers throughout each academic year and students benefit from the wide range of national and international topics being discussed and researched within the school.



About the Programme

The aim of the programme is to produce students who are fully-fledged independent researchers, and students are from the outset given encouragement to disseminate their work at seminars and conferences and by publishing in high-quality locations. The programme culminates in the submission of an 80,000-word dissertation.



Mode of study/duration

Registration is on a full-time or part-time basis, under the direction of a supervisory team appointed by the University. You will be expected to submit your thesis at the end of three years of full-time registration for PhD, or two years for MPhil (or part-time equivalent).



Research Seminars

You will be a member of a vibrant research community which hosts regular lectures, seminars and conferences and will be encouraged to present the results of your research at these events and more widely at international conferences and workshops.



There are two regular research seminars for philosophy students and staff:

The Philosophy Seminar

and

The Political Theory/Philosophy Workshop



Students working in political philosophy and related sub-fields may also participate in the monthly PSAI (Political Studies Association of Ireland) political theory seminars, which brings together students and staff from across the island of Ireland.

Graduate

The minimum academic requirement for admission to a research degree programme is normally an Upper Second Class Honours degree from a UK or ROI HE provider, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University. Further information can be obtained by contacting the School of History, Anthropology, Philosophy and Politics.

How to Apply

Apply using our online Postgraduate Applications Portal and follow the step-by-step instructions on how to apply.

Entry Year: 2024/25

Careers

For further information on career development opportunities at PhD level please contact the Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences Career Development Team on ahssdevoffice@qub.ac.uk / +44 28 9097 5175 Development Officers Cathy Wilson and Aileen Carson will be happy to provide further information on your research area career prospects.

Research information


Associated Research

Philosophy, with a particular emphasis on metaphysics, philosophy of mind, logic, epistemology, moral and political philosophy.

Political Theory, particularly green political thought, post-structuralism, democratic political theory and the politics of recognition.