MBA Master of Business Administration
The MBA program at Durham University is a full-time, intensive course aimed at developi...
MA Ancient Philosophy
Durham City
INTAKE: October
Program Overview
The MA in Ancient Philosophy at Durham University offers an in-depth study of key philosophical themes, thinkers, and texts from ancient Greece and Rome. The program focuses on primary sources, engaging students with works by Plato, Aristotle, the Stoics, and Neoplatonists, among others. It is designed for graduates from philosophy, classics, history, and related disciplines who seek to enhance their expertise in ancient thought while critically engaging with modern interpretations. With a strong emphasis on textual analysis, logical reasoning, and philosophical argumentation, this program prepares students for advanced research and professional opportunities in philosophy, education, and cultural institutions.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the MA in Ancient Philosophy is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of ancient philosophical traditions and their relevance to contemporary debates. Core modules include Greek and Roman Philosophy, Plato and Aristotle, and Hellenistic and Late Antique Philosophy. Students engage in close readings of classical texts, analyzing their arguments in both historical and philosophical contexts. The program also offers specialized modules on topics such as Metaphysics in Antiquity, Ethics and Politics in Ancient Thought, and Philosophy of Language in the Classical Era. In addition to coursework, students undertake a research dissertation, allowing them to develop expertise in a specific area of ancient philosophy under the supervision of leading scholars.
Research Focus: Durham University is a hub for cutting-edge research in ancient philosophy, with faculty members actively contributing to international philosophical discourse. The MA program benefits from the university’s Centre for Ancient and Medieval Philosophy, which fosters interdisciplinary research and academic collaboration. Students have the opportunity to explore diverse research areas, including Platonic metaphysics, Aristotelian ethics, Stoic logic, and Neoplatonic epistemology. The program encourages engagement with both historical scholarship and contemporary philosophical analysis, preparing students for further academic research at the doctoral level or careers in fields that require advanced analytical and interpretative skills.
Industry Engagement: While ancient philosophy is traditionally associated with academia, Durham University ensures that students develop transferable skills applicable to various professional sectors. The MA program includes opportunities for research collaborations, conference participation, and public engagement initiatives. Students benefit from workshops, guest lectures, and networking events featuring philosophers, historians, educators, and professionals from cultural institutions. The program also emphasizes skills in critical thinking, textual analysis, argumentation, and ethical reasoning, making graduates highly valuable in industries such as education, publishing, policy-making, museum curation, and media.
Global Perspective: Durham University fosters an internationally diverse academic community, attracting students and scholars from around the world. The MA in Ancient Philosophy incorporates global perspectives on classical thought, drawing connections between Western, Eastern, and Islamic philosophical traditions. The university maintains collaborations with leading institutions in Europe and beyond, offering students opportunities for international research exchanges, interdisciplinary projects, and participation in global conferences on ancient philosophy. This broad perspective ensures that graduates are well-equipped to contribute to cross-cultural philosophical discourse and pursue careers in international academic and cultural sectors.
Location
Durham City
Score
IELTS 7
Tuition Fee
£ 24000
Postgraduate Entry Requirements:
- Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% to 70% or equivalent.
- English language proficiency is required, and applicants must provide evidence of their English language skills through an approved language test.
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual component below 6.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 92, with at least 23 in Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 62 with no individual score below 59.
- Some postgraduate 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.
Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
Durham University offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to both domestic and international students.
Durham University Scholarships and Bursaries: These are awarded to both undergraduate and postgraduate students based on academic excellence, financial need, or specific criteria such as subject area or country of origin.
Durham International Scholarships: These are awarded to exceptional international students who are pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate studies at the university. The scholarship covers a portion of tuition fees and is renewable for the duration of the course.
Government Scholarships: Durham University participates in a number of government scholarship programs, including the Chevening Scholarship and the Commonwealth Scholarship.
College-Specific Scholarships: Some colleges at Durham University offer scholarships and bursaries to their students, such as the Van Mildert College Music Scholarship and the St. Mary's College Travel Grant.
Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments at Durham University offer scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships may be discipline-specific or focused on supporting students from specific regions or countries.
Vice-Chancellor's Scholarships: The Vice-Chancellor's Scholarships are prestigious scholarships awarded to exceptional international students across all academic disciplines. These scholarships cover the full tuition fees and provide a generous living allowance for the duration of the program. The selection process is highly competitive and based on academic merit and leadership potential.
Graduates of the MA Ancient Philosophy program from Durham University possess a strong foundation in philosophical thinking and critical analysis. They are equipped with transferable skills that open doors to various career paths.
Academia and Research: Graduates may pursue academic careers as researchers or educators in philosophy and related disciplines.
Publishing and Journalism: The analytical and communication skills gained during the program make graduates suitable for careers in publishing, writing, or journalism.
Public Policy and Advocacy: Graduates can work in the public policy sector, contributing to ethical and philosophical discussions that inform policy decisions.
Cultural Heritage and Museums: Graduates may find opportunities in cultural heritage institutions or museums, where a deep understanding of ancient philosophy is valued.
Law and Legal Practice: The analytical and logical thinking skills honed during the program are relevant to careers in law and legal practice.
Business and Consulting: Graduates with a background in philosophy can bring valuable perspectives to ethical decision-making in the business world.
