BA (Hons) Philosophy

The BA (Hons) Philosophy program at Oxford Brookes University offers students an in-depth exploration of fundamental questions concerning existence, knowledge, ethics, and reality. Rooted in critical thinking and rigorous analysis, this undergraduate degree provides students with a solid foundation in philosophical traditions, theories, and methodologies. Through engaging coursework, seminar discussions, and philosophical inquiries, students develop essential skills in logical reasoning, argumentation, and conceptual analysis, preparing them for diverse academic and professional pursuits.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA (Hons) Philosophy program covers a wide range of philosophical topics and traditions, allowing students to explore areas of interest and develop their philosophical expertise. Courses may include metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, political philosophy, philosophy of mind, logic, aesthetics, and the history of philosophy. Students engage with primary texts, contemporary debates, and philosophical problems, honing their critical thinking skills and philosophical insights. The program may also include opportunities for independent study, research projects, and interdisciplinary coursework, allowing students to tailor their academic experience to their interests and career goals.

Research Focus: Oxford Brookes University emphasizes research within its BA (Hons) Philosophy program, encouraging students to engage with philosophical inquiry and contribute to the advancement of philosophical knowledge. Students learn research methodologies, critical analysis techniques, and argumentative strategies to explore philosophical questions and develop original insights. Through coursework, seminars, and independent research projects, students have the opportunity to delve into specific philosophical topics, formulate research questions, and present their findings in written assignments or oral presentations. The program fosters a culture of intellectual curiosity and scholarly inquiry, preparing students for further study or research-oriented careers in philosophy.

Industry Engagement: While philosophy is primarily an academic discipline, the BA (Hons) Philosophy program at Oxford Brookes University encourages students to apply philosophical skills and perspectives to various professional contexts. The university fosters connections with organizations, think tanks, and community groups where philosophical insights are valued, such as ethics committees, policy think tanks, and non-profit organizations. Students may engage in internships, work placements, or extracurricular activities that allow them to apply philosophical reasoning and analysis to real-world issues and challenges. By bridging theory and practice, the program prepares students for careers that require critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and intellectual flexibility.

Global Perspective: With its diverse student body and international faculty, Oxford Brookes University offers a global perspective within its BA (Hons) Philosophy program. Students explore philosophical ideas from different cultural, historical, and geographical contexts, gaining insight into the diversity of human thought and experience. The program may include courses or seminars that address global philosophical traditions, comparative ethics, or cross-cultural philosophical dialogue. Additionally, students have opportunities for international exchanges, study abroad programs, or collaborative research projects with scholars from around the world, enhancing their understanding of philosophy within a global context and fostering cultural competence.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 65% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.

English language proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 72, with at least 17 in Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59 with no individual score below 59.
• Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

It is important to note that entry requirements may vary across different programs and courses. Additionally, meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as the number of available places and competition for certain courses.

Oxford Brookes University offers a range of scholarships to support students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships are designed to recognize excellence, encourage diversity, and provide financial assistance to deserving students. 

Vice-Chancellor's Scholarships: These prestigious scholarships are awarded to high-achieving international students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance. The scholarships cover a percentage of tuition fees for the duration of the student's program.

Academic Excellence Scholarships: Oxford Brookes University provides scholarships to UK and EU students based on academic merit. These scholarships are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs and can contribute towards tuition fees.

International Scholarships: Oxford Brookes University offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships may be based on academic merit, nationality, or specific areas of study. Eligible students can receive financial support towards their tuition fees.

Access and Widening Participation Scholarships: Oxford Brookes University is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion. These scholarships are available to students from underrepresented backgrounds, such as those from low-income families or who are the first in their family to attend university. The scholarships provide financial support and other resources to ensure equal access to education.

Subject-Specific Scholarships: Some academic departments at Oxford Brookes University offer scholarships that are specific to certain fields of study. These scholarships may be based on academic achievement, research potential, or other criteria relevant to the subject area.

Sports Scholarships: Oxford Brookes University recognizes the importance of sports and supports talented athletes through sports scholarships. These scholarships provide financial support, coaching, and access to training facilities to help students balance their sporting with their academic studies.

Oxford Brookes University offers a range of scholarships to support students financially and recognize their achievements. From international scholarships to subject-specific and sports scholarships, the university strives to ensure that talented and deserving students have access to higher education. These scholarships contribute to fostering diversity, promoting academic excellence, and providing opportunities for students to pursue their educational goals at Oxford Brookes University.

Graduates of the BA (Hons) Philosophy program at Oxford Brookes University possess valuable skills in critical thinking, analysis, and communication, preparing them for diverse career paths in academia, business, law, government, and more.

Academic Researcher or Lecturer: Many graduates pursue careers in academia, working as researchers or lecturers in philosophy departments at universities and colleges. Academic researchers conduct original research, publish scholarly articles and books, and contribute to philosophical discourse and knowledge. Lecturers teach undergraduate and graduate courses in philosophy, lead seminars, and mentor students in their academic and professional development.

Philosophical Consultant: Graduates may work as philosophical consultants, offering expertise and insight on ethical, moral, and conceptual issues to businesses, organizations, and individuals. Philosophical consultants help clients navigate complex ethical dilemmas, develop corporate social responsibility policies, and analyze moral implications of business decisions. They may also provide guidance on philosophical principles in marketing, branding, and corporate communication.

Ethicist: Graduates may pursue careers as ethicists, working in healthcare institutions, research organizations, or government agencies. Ethicists analyze ethical issues related to healthcare policy, medical research, and patient care, providing guidance on moral decision-making, informed consent, and end-of-life care. They may also work in bioethics, environmental ethics, or business ethics, addressing ethical concerns in various fields and industries.

Policy Analyst: Graduates with a background in philosophy may work as policy analysts, evaluating government policies, legislation, and regulations from ethical, philosophical, and social perspectives. Policy analysts research policy issues, assess potential impacts, and provide recommendations to policymakers and advocacy groups. They may work in government agencies, think tanks, or non-profit organizations focused on social justice, human rights, or public policy reform.

Lawyer or Legal Analyst: Graduates may pursue careers in law, applying their analytical skills and philosophical reasoning to legal practice. Lawyers with a background in philosophy may specialize in areas such as legal ethics, human rights law, or constitutional law. Legal analysts may work for law firms, government agencies, or advocacy organizations, researching legal issues, drafting legal documents, and providing legal advice informed by philosophical principles.

Journalist or Writer: Graduates may work in journalism, media, or publishing, applying their critical thinking and communication skills to analyze and discuss philosophical topics for a broader audience. Philosophical journalists may write articles, op-eds, or essays on philosophical ideas, current events, and cultural trends. Writers with a background in philosophy may also author books, blogs, or podcasts exploring philosophical themes and debates.

Management Consultant: Graduates may work as management consultants, providing strategic advice and problem-solving expertise to businesses and organizations. Philosophical perspectives on leadership, decision-making, and organizational culture can inform strategic planning, innovation, and conflict resolution in corporate settings. Management consultants with a background in philosophy may specialize in areas such as ethics consulting, corporate governance, or organizational development.

Public Intellectual: Graduates may become public intellectuals, engaging in public discourse and debate on philosophical, ethical, and societal issues. Public intellectuals contribute to public understanding of philosophy through public lectures, debates, media appearances, and writing for popular audiences. They may address contemporary ethical dilemmas, political controversies, or philosophical questions relevant to everyday life, shaping public opinion and fostering critical thinking in society.

Entrepreneur: Graduates with entrepreneurial ambitions may start their own businesses or ventures, leveraging their philosophical training to address social, ethical, or environmental challenges. Social entrepreneurs may create businesses with a social or environmental mission, applying philosophical principles to address pressing issues such as poverty, sustainability, or social justice. Entrepreneurial philosophers may also develop educational programs, products, or services that promote philosophical inquiry, critical thinking, and ethical decision-making in society.