Overview
You will be taught by one the UK’s largest and most vibrant communities of philosophers of mind and cognition, who pursue original research on a wide range of topics giving you expert supervision for your dissertation.
You will also have the option to pursue modules in the Departments of Psychology or Computer Science. This programme is aimed at graduates with a background in philosophy, psychology, linguistics, neuroscience, computer science, or mathematics. It can also be used as a route into PhD research.
By studying philosophy you will develop many skills that are useful in both academic and non-academic settings:
- Critical thinking skills: Good philosophers can analyse problems and assess opinions from different viewpoints. Philosophers do not take anything for granted. This is highly useful for problem-solving and decision-making.
- Communication skills: Good philosophers can present and explain abstract concepts and complex arguments in an accessible manner. They are also good at persuading others by presenting logical and coherent arguments.
- Writing skills: Good philosophers can communicate effectively in writing. They can write clearly and concisely without compromising rigour.
- Research skills: Good philosophers can identify problems and collect necessary information to resolve them in a timely manner.
Career
The Philosophy of Mind and Cognitive Science programme from University of Birmingham will provide excellent preparation for your future career, but this can also be enhanced by a range of employability support services offered by the University and the College of Arts and Law.
The University's Careers Network provides expert guidance and activities especially for postgraduates, which will help you achieve your career goals. The College of Arts and Law also has a dedicated careers and employability team who offer tailored advice and a programme of College-specific careers events.
You will be encouraged to make the most of your postgraduate experience and will have the opportunity to:
- Receive one-to-one careers advice, including guidance on your job applications, writing your CV and improving your interview technique, whether you are looking for a career inside or outside of academia
- Meet employers face-to-face at on-campus recruitment fairs and employer presentations
- Attend an annual programme of careers fairs, skills workshops and conferences, including bespoke events for postgraduates in the College of Arts and Law
- Take part in a range of activities to demonstrate your knowledge and skills to potential employers and enhance your CV
- What’s more, you will be able to access our full range of careers support for up to 2 years after graduation.
Programme Structure
Courses include:
- Philosophy of Mind and Cognitive Science
- Philosophy and Mental Health
- Bioethics
- Epistemology
- Ethics and Global Ethics
- God, Freedom and the Meaning of Life
- Human Rights
- Metaphysics
- Philosophy of Language
Key information
Duration
- Full-time
- 12 months
- Part-time
- 24 months
- Flexible
Start dates & application deadlines
- Starting
- Apply before , National
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- Starting
- Apply before , International
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Language
Credits
Delivered
Disciplines
Psychology Philosophy & Ethics Cognitive Sciences View 251 other Masters in Philosophy & Ethics in United KingdomAcademic requirements
English requirements
Other requirements
General requirements
- The programme allows for multi-disciplinary entry. You need an upper second-class Honours degree, or equivalent, preferably in Philosophy or another relevant subject (e.g. Psychology, Linguistics, Neuroscience, Computer Science, Mathematics), or a Joint Honours degree of which Philosophy or another relevant subject is a component.
- If your undergraduate degree is in another subject, you are still very welcome to apply. We consider every application on its merits and we are happy to consider applicants with diverse academic backgrounds. Your level of academic achievement, letters of reference, and personal statement will all have strong influence on our decision. We may also require you to submit a writing sample.
- We ask you to submit two academic references as part of your application, but if you have been out of academia for some time we will also accept a professional reference in addition to one academic reference.
Tuition Fee
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International
21240 GBP/yearTuition FeeBased on the tuition of 21240 GBP for the full programme during 12 months. -
National
9810 GBP/yearTuition FeeBased on the tuition of 9810 GBP for the full programme during 12 months.
- UK: £4,905 part-time
Living costs for Birmingham
The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.
Funding
Studyportals Tip: Students can search online for independent or external scholarships that can help fund their studies. Check the scholarships to see whether you are eligible to apply. Many scholarships are either merit-based or needs-based.