MSc Epistemology, Ethics & Mind

Combining elements of linguistics, computer science, engineering and psychology

Does the mind work like a computer? Are there universal moral principles? What is the nature of knowledge, and how do I acquire it? How can moral responsibility be reconciled with a deterministic universe? Is truth the goal of inquiry? Is my mind in my head or can it extend beyond my skull and into the world? Are there such things as moral facts?

This innovative online programme allows you to take advantage of Edinburgh’s remarkable range of expertise in the core philosophical areas of epistemology, ethics, and philosophy of mind and cognitive science. Thanks to our state-of-the-art e-learning software and extensive digital resources, you can gain a world-class graduate qualification without the expense of relocating.

You will also benefit from the flexible structure of the programme, which will allow you to balance your studies with work and family commitments and to develop your own specialised interest under the expert guidance of our distinguished academics.

Why study Epistemology, Ethics & Mind at Edinburgh?

  • We're ranked 7th in the UK and 21st in the world for philosophy (QS World University Rankings by subject 2023).

  • This is a unique programme which provides a thorough grounding in contemporary philosophy, with a particular emphasis on those core research areas where Edinburgh has particular strengths: epistemology, ethics and philosophy of mind and cognitive science.
  • As an online programme you can undertake personal study at times to suit you and gain a world-class graduate qualification without the expense of relocating.

Showcasing Philosophy at Edinburgh

Programme structure

This is an online only programme. It will be taught through a combination of short video lectures, web discussion boards, videoconferencing and online exercises.

As a student on the programme, you will have regular access to both faculty and dedicated teaching assistants, including one-to-one interactions. You will also interact with other students on the programme as part of a dedicated virtual learning environment.

If you decide to undertake the full MSc degree, you will write a dissertation (8,000 to 10,000 words) on a research topic under the close supervision of faculty teaching on the programme.

Course options

Compulsory courses

You will study compulsory courses in philosophical methodology and the areas of:

  • Epistemology
  • Ethics
  • Philosophy of mind
  • Cognitive science

Options courses

Advanced option courses are available in:

  • Philosophy of science
  • Philosophy of religion

For more information about the courses please visit the Degree Programme Table:

When to apply

We operate a gathered field approach to applications. You may submit your application at any time.

All complete applications that satisfy our minimum entry requirements will be placed on a shortlist and held until the next batch processing deadline. Applications will then be ranked and offers made to the top candidates.

Find out more about the degree programme and how to apply:

Connect with us

If you have any programme-specific enquiries please get in touch with the programme director:

Dr Alasdair Richmond (Programme director)

Feel free to get in touch with our friendly Postgraduate Team with any questions you might have about academic or English language requirements, course information, enquiries about your application and information on arriving at the University.

Postgraduate Team enquiries:

Email: pplspgoffice@ed.ac.uk

How to apply and fees & funding information:

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