Specialising within the MSc programme: Ancient Greek and Islamic Philosophy
The MSc Philosophy at the University of Edinburgh offers students the opportunity to get a thorough grounding in the philosophical traditions of Ancient Greece and Rome and of the Islamic world.
Introduction
Edinburgh has a proud and distinguished place in the history of philosophy and has long been associated with some of the field’s most important thinkers.
Our Philosophy department, one of the largest in the world, is home to academics leading research into a wide range of topics. Embarking on the MSc Philosophy, students can keep their studies general or focus on one of the areas of philosophy where we have particular strength.
One of the areas where students can specialise is Ancient or Islamic philosophy and selecting this option opens up opportunities to take courses from other Schools within the College of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences (CAHSS).
Studying Ancient Greek and Islamic Philosophy
If you are interested in either Ancient or Islamic philosophy, you have the option of taking several courses in these areas within the Philosophy Department, as well as courses offered in Classics, History, and Islamic Studies.
You may also take up to two semesters of a relevant language course, whether Latin, Greek, or Arabic, as part of the degree. The Dissertation in Ancient Greek, Roman or Islamic Philosophy may be completed by students who have completed at least two relevant courses, and these students will be assigned a specialist supervisor working in a relevant area.
In addition, the Department offers a variety of talks and reading groups in the history of philosophy, including ancient and Islamic philosophy, which MSc students are encouraged to participate in. The MSc in Philosophy at Edinburgh offers excellent preparation for students aiming to continue to PhD research in either Ancient or Islamic philosophy, but is also suited for those who simply wish to learn more about these traditions.
Spotlight on specialists
The Philosophy department is home to two specialists in the field of Ancient and Islamic philosophy:
Dr Fedor Benevich earned his PhD in Philosophy and Islamic Studies from LMU in 2016. His primary area of expertise is the history of Islamic philosophy, which includes post-classical Islamic philosophy, Islamic philosophical theology (kalām), as well as the critical adaptation of ancient and late ancient philosophical theories within the Islamic intellectual tradition.
Dr Inna Kupreeva is a Senior Lecturer in Ancient Philosophy. Her main research areas are Aristotle and Aristotelian tradition, Aristotelian commentators (especially Alexander of Aphrodisias), ancient science and medicine (especially Galen’s medical philosophy). She also has research interests in Plato and Hellenistic philosophical schools (especially Stoicism). She has published widely in all these fields.
Collaborative approach to MSc teaching
To enable students interested in Ancient or Islamic Philosophy to take advantage of the expertise at the University of Edinburgh, you have access to courses and support from two other Schools in the College, School of Literatures, Languages & Cultures and the School of History, Classics & Archaeology.
You will have the opportunity to learn the methods and approaches used in Philosophy, Classics and Islamic Studies and to study philosophical texts and questions from an interdisciplinary perspective.
Find out more and how to apply
If you are interested in applying for the MSc Philosophy programme, you can find further details and application guidance on the degree finder: