Studying the MA in Philosophy will hone your ability to think clearly, reason logically, and develop your essay writing, research and analytical skills. You will put forward and evaluate arguments while exploring current debates and issues in social and political philosophy – engaging with a wide range of fascinating philosophy texts and areas of contemporary philosophical enquiry. You'll begin by considering contemporary debates in philosophy on the theme of personhood, before examining issues such as citizenship, nationalism, and democracy. Finally, you'll undertake a substantial piece of independent enquiry with a dissertation on a topic of your choice.
Key features of the course
• Combines an in-depth study of philosophical texts and debates with a broad and diverse range of topics
• Examines texts by philosophers working at different times and from different perspectives
• Explores a variety of contemporary philosophical debates
• Develops valuable transferable skills that are highly prized in the workplace, including communication, problem-solving and self-management
• Excellent preparation for further study or research at doctoral level.
The learning outcomes of this qualification are described in four areas:
• Knowledge and understanding
• Cognitive skills
• Practical and professional skills
• Key skills
On completion
On successful completion of the required modules you can be awarded the Master of Arts in Philosophy, entitling you to use the letters MA (Phil) (Open) after your name. You will have the opportunity of being presented at a degree ceremony.
If you leave the programme before you qualify for a degree you can qualify for a Postgraduate Certificate in Humanities (C20) after successfully completing 60 credits including a postgraduate foundation module, or a Postgraduate Diploma in Humanities (D35) with 120 credits including a postgraduate foundation module and a subject module.
Recognition in your country
If you intend to use your Open University qualifications to seek work or undertake further study outside the UK, we recommend checking whether your intended qualification will meet local requirements for your chosen career. Read recognition in my country.
Credit transfer
If you've successfully completed some relevant postgraduate study elsewhere, you might be able to count it towards this qualification, reducing the number of modules you need to study. You should apply for credit transfer as soon as possible, before you register for your first module. For more details and an application form, visit our Credit Transfer website.