MSc Philosophy of Mind & Psychology

Program Overview

The MSc Philosophy of Mind & Psychology at the University of Glasgow is designed for students who are interested in the intersection of philosophy and psychology, providing a comprehensive understanding of the mind from both disciplines. It explores core questions about consciousness, identity, emotions, cognition, and the philosophy of perception, all while addressing the scientific and psychological underpinnings of these issues. The program combines the strengths of both the philosophy department and the psychology department, ensuring that students receive a balanced education that incorporates both theoretical and empirical approaches to understanding the mind. By the end of the program, students will be equipped with the intellectual tools to analyze complex psychological phenomena while engaging with foundational philosophical questions about the nature of the mind and consciousness.

Curriculum: The MSc Philosophy of Mind & Psychology program at the University of Glasgow includes a diverse and robust curriculum that integrates both philosophy and psychology. Students begin by studying core philosophical topics such as metaphysics, epistemology, philosophy of mind, and the philosophy of perception. These foundational courses are complemented by psychology modules covering cognitive psychology, neuropsychology, developmental psychology, and research methods in psychology. Students will also explore advanced topics such as the mind-body problem, the nature of consciousness, and the psychology of emotions. Throughout the program, students engage with contemporary debates in both philosophy and psychology, learning to critically evaluate existing theories and research. The program culminates in a dissertation project, allowing students to focus on a specific research question at the intersection of philosophy and psychology.

Research Focus: The MSc Philosophy of Mind & Psychology program is grounded in cutting-edge research that explores the complex relationship between mind and brain. Research focuses on key areas such as the nature of consciousness, the mind-body problem, cognitive processes, the psychological aspects of self and identity, and perception. Faculty members are experts in a variety of related fields, including philosophy of mind, cognitive science, neurophilosophy, and psychological theory. Students have the opportunity to engage in research projects that contribute to the ongoing dialogue in both fields, developing their own research questions and pursuing original insights into the nature of mind and human psychology. The interdisciplinary nature of the program allows students to engage with both philosophical analysis and empirical psychological research, ensuring a broad, comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

Industry Engagement: The MSc Philosophy of Mind & Psychology program offers students valuable opportunities for industry engagement, particularly in areas where philosophy and psychology intersect. The University of Glasgow has strong ties with academic institutions, research organizations, and healthcare providers that focus on cognitive science, psychology, and mental health. Students may have opportunities to collaborate with practitioners, researchers, and policymakers through internships, research projects, or work placements. The program also provides access to seminars, guest lectures, and workshops from industry experts, offering students the chance to interact with professionals in fields such as mental health, cognitive neuroscience, education, and artificial intelligence. These industry connections provide students with practical experience and help them build networks for future career opportunities.

Global Perspective: The MSc Philosophy of Mind & Psychology program at the University of Glasgow takes a global perspective on the study of mind and psychology, recognizing that the understanding of human cognition and consciousness has broad implications worldwide. The program attracts students from diverse international backgrounds, enriching the academic environment with different cultural perspectives on psychology and philosophy. The university’s global research collaborations provide students with access to cutting-edge research and the opportunity to engage with global issues in mind science and psychology. The program also incorporates diverse philosophical traditions, ensuring that students consider both Western and non-Western perspectives on the mind and human behavior. This global outlook prepares graduates to work in international research, policy-making, healthcare, and education, addressing mind and psychology-related issues on a global scale.