Philosophy

‘Who are we?’, ‘what can we know?’, and ‘what should we do to lead worthwhile lives?’ are just a few of the questions you’ll consider as you discover how great minds, past and present, have tried to answer them.

As a BA (Hons) Philosophy student at ARU, you'll understand both the history of philosophy, as well as cutting edge debates in contemporary philosophy, within areas such as the Philosophy of AI, Ethics and the Philosophy of Art.

Your studies will be supported by our expert philosophy lecturers, who offer one-to-one tutoring and personalised feedback. In the National Student Survey 2023, our Philosophy courses scored: 93% for Student Voice; 92% for the Teaching on my Course; 92% for Learning Opportunities; 90% for Assessment and Feedback; and 90% for Academic Support.

Our BA (Hons) Philosophy graduates go on to work in a variety of fields, including new media, recruitment, events management, marketing, charities, teaching, law or medicine (via a conversion course), the Civil Service, or local government. Some even set up their own independent businesses.

Our degree course is designed to help you develop and think about the skills you need to enter your chosen career from day one. The problem-solving, critical and creative thinking, judgement, analysis and communication skills our philosophy students gain are highly valued by employers. You’ll also learn to work well independently and as part of a team, and may develop attitudes and viewpoints that are much appreciated in the workplace.

You could also learn more, develop a specialism or start an exciting career in research by continuing on to a Masters degree. Take advantage of our Alumni Scholarship and get 20% off your fees.

Employability and personal career development

Informed by employers, our courses support an integrated approach to employability. You’ll have opportunities to develop the skills and abilities they are looking for and gain a deeper understanding of how your academic learning relates to the world of work through Live Briefs and Ruskin Modules.

You will need to dedicate time outside of your course to develop your employability, through placements, internships or volunteering or through our partner scheme Students at the Heart of Knowledge Exchange (SHoKE). You can evidence this experience on your CV and talk about it in interviews to give you that all important edge.

Our Employability and Careers Service offers a range of expert advice and support to build your unique professional profile, including tailored career appointments, advice on writing your CV, and help to complete job applications. You’ll have 24/7 access to the Careers Centre, our comprehensive online digital resource, which empowers you to start building a Personal Career Development Plan from the very start. Design your future at ARU.