Philosophy (BA)
- Subject area: Philosophy
- UCAS code: V500
- Next intake: September 2027
- Duration: 3 years
- Mode: Full time
Why study this course
Interest-led
Think for yourself
Critically and creatively engage with difficult problems in an independent and open-minded way.
Better futures for all
Study at the frontiers of inquiry
Analyse contemporary research with staff who are leading researchers in their field.
Communicate effectively
Develop skills and experience in shaping and presenting your ideas and arguments, and in reaching agreement on difficult questions.
How should you live your life and relate to others? How should we organise society? Who and what should you believe? What is the nature of beauty? How do your mind, brain, body and environment shape your thoughts and feelings?
Our BA in Philosophy investigates and unpicks important and complex questions like these. Learn how to engage with today’s global challenges by developing your skills as a philosopher in your own right.
You’ll be doing philosophy, not simply learning about it. We’ll support you to think critically and creatively about difficult problems, including sensitive and controversial topics, in an open-minded and collaborative way.
Through engagement with current research and working with your lecturers, you'll develop insights into complex new areas of study. Our expertise covers a broad range of philosophical topics and traditions and you'll gain a grounding in central areas like ethics, epistemology and philosophy of mind, while also having the opportunity to study areas such as aesthetics, feminist philosophy and phenomenology.
Many of our modules directly address contemporary problems facing society, helping you connect philosophical theory with practice. This is emphasised with a final-year project that applies your own philosophical knowledge and ideas to policies or strategies aimed at solving a real-world ethical or social problem.
You’ll graduate with valuable professional skills including collaboration, communication and critical thinking. You'll also have a deep understanding of the ethical and social challenges facing contemporary society and industry - and the confidence to respond to them.
Subject area: Philosophy
Entry requirements
We accept a combination of A-levels and other qualifications, as well as acceptable alternative international qualifications subject to entry requirements. Typical offers are as follows:
A level
ABB-BBC
Extended/International Project Qualification: Applicants with grade A in the EPQ/IPQ will typically receive an offer one grade lower than the standard offer. Please note that any subject specific requirements must still be met.
- Our grade range covers our standard offer and contextual offer. We carefully consider the circumstances in which you've been studying (your contextual data) upon application. Eligible students will be given an offer that is lower than the standard offer (usually the middle or lower end of the advertised grade range).
- Where there is no grade range advertised and/or where there are selection processes in place (like an interview) you may receive additional consideration in the selection process.
Learn about eligible courses and how contextual data is applied.
International Baccalaureate
32-30 overall or 665-655 in 3 HL subjects.
Baccalaureate Wales
From September 2023, there will be a new qualification called the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales (level 3). This qualification will replace the Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate (Welsh Baccalaureate). The qualification will continue to be accepted in lieu of one A-Level (at the grades listed above), excluding any specified subjects.
GCSE and other essential requirements
You must have or be working towards:
- English language or Welsh language at GCSE grade C/4 or an equivalent (such as A-levels). If you require a Student visa, you must ensure your language qualification complies with UKVI requirements.
We do not accept Critical Thinking, General Studies, Citizenship Studies, or other similar equivalent subjects.
We will accept a combination of BTEC subjects, A-levels, and other qualifications, subject to the course specific grade and subject requirements.
English language requirements
GCSE
Grade C or grade 4 in GCSE English Language.
IELTS (academic)
At least 6.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each subskill.
TOEFL iBT
At least 90 overall with a minimum of 17 for writing, 17 for listening, 18 for reading, and 20 for speaking.
PTE Academic
At least 69 overall with a minimum of 59 in all communicative skills.
Trinity ISE II/III
II: at least two Distinctions and two Merits.
III: at least a Pass in all components.
Other accepted qualifications
Please visit our English Language requirements page for more information on our other accepted language qualifications.
Criminal convictions
You are not required to complete a DBS (Disclosure Barring Service) check or provide a Certificate of Good Conduct to study this course.
If you are currently subject to any licence condition or monitoring restriction that could affect your ability to successfully complete your studies, you will be required to disclose your criminal record. Conditions include, but are not limited to:
- access to computers or devices that can store images
- use of internet and communication tools/devices
- curfews
- freedom of movement
- contact with people related to Cardiff University.
Other qualifications from inside the UK
BTEC
DDM-DMM in a BTEC Extended Diploma in any subject.
T level
Acceptance of T Levels for this programme will be considered on a case-by-case basis by the Academic School. Consideration will be given to the T Level grade/subject and grades/subjects achieved at GCSE/Level 2.
Please see our admissions policies for more information about the application process.
Tuition fees for 2027 entry
Your tuition fees and how you pay them will depend on your fee status. Your fee status could be home, island or overseas.
Learn how we decide your fee status
Fees for home status
We are currently awaiting confirmation on tuition fees for the 2027/28 academic year.
1 Home status tuition fees are charged at the maximum fee set by the Government each year. If the tuition fee cap changes before you start your course, we’ll email you to let you know. We’ll explain any changes to your tuition fees, and allow you to withdraw without penalty if you decide not to study with us.
Tuition fees may increase for subsequent years of your course if the fee cap changes. Learn what happens if tuition fees increase.
Fees for overseas status
We are currently awaiting confirmation on tuition fees for the 2027/28 academic year.
Additional costs
Course specific equipment
You will not need any specific equipment.
Accommodation
We have a range of residences to suit your needs and budget. Find out more on our accommodation pages.
Living costs
We're based in one of the UK's most affordable cities. Find out more about living costs in Cardiff.
Course structure
This is a 3-year, full-time degree with 120 credits of study in each year.
The modules shown are an example of the typical curriculum and will be reviewed prior to the 2027/2028 academic year. The final modules will be published by September 2027.
Year one
Year 1 introduces you to key areas of philosophy that feature throughout the degree.
You’ll consider classic texts and current debates about morality, justice, knowledge and belief. You’ll also study the nature of communication and the relationships between minds and bodies. You’ll explore philosophical questions through fiction and film, as well as written texts, and reflect on the limitations of human reason. You’ll learn how to write to academic and professional standards, and practise the skills that are essential to the degree.
| Module title | Module code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Moral and Political Philosophy | SE4103 | 20 credits |
| Philosophy Through Fiction and Film | SE4110 | 20 credits |
| Mind, Language and Belief | SE4113 | 20 credits |
| New Directions in Philosophy | SE4114 | 20 credits |
| Reason and its Limits | SE4115 | 20 credits |
| Writing at University and Beyond | SE6266 | 20 credits |
Year two
In year 2, you’ll choose at least 2 modules from moral, political and feminist philosophy.
You’ll also choose at least 2 modules from philosophy of mind, philosophy of psychology, philosophy of language and epistemology. This prepares you for final-year modules that often combine these areas of philosophy. You can also explore other areas of philosophy through optional modules.
These modules give you further opportunities to practise key skills in communication, collaboration and critical thinking. You’ll become more independent in your studies and develop your ability to reflect on your own work.
| Module title | Module code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Political Philosophy | SE4443 | 20 credits |
| Modern Moral Philosophy | SE4456 | 20 credits |
| Philosophy of Feminism | SE4459 | 20 credits |
| Contemporary Moral Philosophy | SE4463 | 20 credits |
| Contemporary Epistemology | SE4444 | 20 credits |
| Minds, Bodies, Worlds | SE4445 | 20 credits |
| Philosophy of Language | SE4457 | 20 credits |
| Philosophy of Psychology | SE4458 | 20 credits |
| Damcaniaethu Cyfalafiaeth | SE4446 | 20 credits |
| Credoau'r Cymry | SE4454 | 20 credits |
| French Existentialism | SE4455 | 20 credits |
| Philosophical Aesthetics | SE4464 | 20 credits |
Year three
In your final year, you’ll be immersed in the research culture of philosophy and gain a deeper understanding of how current philosophical research can have an impact on the world.
A core module will allow you to explore the contribution that philosophical skills and knowledge can make in professional organisations and roles. You’ll engage with current philosophical research to generate workable policy recommendations in response to a real-world problem.
You’ll also choose 5 optional modules that enable you to develop your own ideas about the latest research in our areas of expertise. These modules often integrate different areas of philosophy studied earlier in the degree, and focus on problems of contemporary societal concern.
| Module title | Module code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Philosophy in Practice | SE4447 | 20 credits |
| Module title | Module code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Dissertation in Philosophy | SE4385 | 20 credits |
| Cyfiawnder Byd-eang | SE4394 | 20 credits |
| Belief & Irrationality | SE4419 | 20 credits |
| Ethics of Knowing | SE4422 | 20 credits |
| Beauty & Ethics | SE4425 | 20 credits |
| Moral Responsibility | SE4426 | 20 credits |
| A Sense of the Possible | SE4427 | 20 credits |
| Paradoxes of Democracy | SE4432 | 20 credits |
| Meaning Through Silence | SE4433 | 20 credits |
| Aesthetic Injustice | SE4434 | 20 credits |
| Reasons and Relationships | SE4438 | 20 credits |
| Speech Acts Online | SE4441 | 20 credits |
| Y Gyhoeddfa: Democratiaeth, Hunaniaeth, a Rheswm | SE4465 | 20 credits |
The University is committed to providing a wide range of module options where possible, but please be aware that whilst every effort is made to offer choice this may be limited in certain circumstances. This is due to the fact that some modules have limited numbers of places available, which are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, while others have minimum student numbers required before they will run, to ensure that an appropriate quality of education can be delivered; some modules require students to have already taken particular subjects, and others are core or required on the programme you are taking. Modules may also be limited due to timetable clashes, and although the University works to minimise disruption to choice, we advise you to seek advice from the relevant School on the module choices available.
Learning and assessment
Throughout the degree, our aim is to support you to become an independent, creative and critical thinker.
At the beginning of your studfies, teaching offers carefully structured support through lectures and seminar discussions, helping you develop key skills and gain confidence. As your studies progress, you’ll learn through guided independent reading, smaller interactive workshops and seminars, and discussions of new research with internationally recognised academics working in that area.
You’ll have access to course materials through our electronic learning environment.
In this supportive environment, you’ll develop your ability to analyse texts and arguments closely, work through problems with others, construct your own arguments, and present your ideas clearly.
How will I be supported?
Your main sources of support are your module leaders and personal tutor. Module leaders hold drop-in sessions during teaching weeks, where you can ask questions about course materials or assessments. While your personal tutor can advise you on academic matters, including study skills, careers and academic progress, as well as pastoral matters. You’ll be invited to meet your personal tutor regularly throughout your degree, with extra meetings available if needed.
You’ll have access to specialist academic writing support across the programme, including online materials, workshops and one-to-one meetings about academic writing.
Our professional services teams can provide academic and student support, and can help with information and guidance if you have any queries. The University's range of support services and events are also available to help you plan your career, manage your emotional, mental and physical health, support you with financial issues and provide assistance for students with disabilities are also available to you. These services are co-located at the Centre for Student Life.
You’ll receive regular feedback as you move through the degree. Oral feedback in lectures, workshops and seminars will help you assess your understanding of the course material and your critical responses to it.
You’ll receive formative comments on essay ideas and detailed feedback on marked coursework. If you undertake the Dissertation module, you’ll receive regular feedback on your project from your supervisor.
How will I be assessed?
Your assessments are designed to develop key skills in communication, collaboration, critical thinking and reflection.
Assessment methods include critical analyses of texts, essays, group discussion assessments, and reflective assessments of your own skills. In your final year, you’ll take part in a large collaborative project that involves writing and presenting for a professional audience.
Optional modules can offer a wider variety of assessments, including writing for a public audience or commenting on an artwork or media piece.
What skills will I practise and develop?
The Learning Outcomes for this programme describe what you’ll achieve by the end of your programme at Cardiff University and identify the knowledge and skills that you’ll develop. They will also help you to understand what is expected of you.
On successful completion of your Programme you’ll be able to:
Knowledge & Understanding:
- Critically evaluate some of the central theories and arguments, and their applications, in moral, social, or political philosophy.
- Critically evaluate some of the central theories and arguments, and their applications, in epistemology, philosophy of language, or philosophy of mind.
- Critically analyse theories and arguments from contemporary philosophical work, including intersections of different areas of philosophy or interdisciplinary research.
- Apply philosophical research by drafting policy or strategy documents, or action recommendations, in response to a real-world ethical or social problem of contemporary societal concern.
Intellectual Skills:
- Explain complex and specialised philosophical claims and arguments.
- Construct arguments that support claims in response to philosophical questions.
- Apply standard techniques of philosophical analysis to critically evaluate philosophical claims and arguments.
Professional Practical Skills:
- Communicate complex information and arguments in different formats appropriate to different purposes.
- Contribute in a collaborative manner to discussions and team projects.
- Articulate and evaluate your own philosophical and professional skills.
Transferable/Key Skills:
- Respond to problems creatively, critically and independently.
- Implement task instructions and manage workload effectively to meet deadlines.
- Deliver and act on constructive feedback.
Careers
Career prospects
You'll develop a range of transferable skills and areas of knowledge that are sought after by many employers with our BA in Philosophy.
You’ll learn to analyse complex problems independently and identify workable, innovative solutions. You’ll work effectively with others on large projects, communicate with different audiences, and use reflection and feedback to develop your skills.
You’ll also gain a broad knowledge base that helps you understand and respond to contemporary ethical and social problems. During your degree, you’ll gain experience of professional research, policy and strategy roles through a large collaborative policy project. This project will help you show employers how your philosophical skills and knowledge can be valuable in the workplace.
University services and schemes are also available to help you build your professional skills and confidence. The Cardiff Award provides a framework for developing your employability, and Student Futures can provide careers advice and support with placements specific to your degree.
Due to the depth and breadth of the skills and knowledge gained through the degree, you'll find our graduates in a variety of sectors and roles. You could work in the civil service, local government, charities, small businesses, consultancy, education, journalism, law, finance, marketing, human resources, public relations and many other professions.
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HESA Data: Copyright Higher Education Statistics Agency Limited 2021. The Higher Education Statistics Agency Limited cannot accept responsibility for any inferences or conclusions derived by third parties from its data. Data is from the latest Graduate Outcomes Survey 2019/20, published by HESA in June 2022.
