Philosophy

Our postgraduate community

Get to know our vibrant, international and welcoming community.

Our department

Central campus aerial

Philosophy has been taught in Edinburgh since the University was established in 1583 and continues to be one of the highest ranked departments in the world.

Located in the newly renovated 40 George Square in Edinburgh’s central area, much of the research stays true to our historical roots although we are definitely not stuck in the past. Our department is leading the conversation on a range of contemporary topics including philosophy of race, gender, language, artificial intelligence and Islamic Philosophy.

Explore our faculty

Research and impact in Philosophy

Philosophy and the Sciences

Our research excellence has transformed academic and public understanding of the human condition, the natural world, and our place within it. Our research has informed the public worldwide via Massive Open Online Courses attracting over half-million people across the globe. It has influenced industrial product design at leading international technology companies as well as the practice of prize-winning artists, museums, and galleries. It has helped prisons, cultural organisations, and commercial businesses to educate for the intellectual virtues.

As a Philosophy student, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in research at Edinburgh by attending regular seminars and reading groups to discuss a range of topics relating to your study interests alongside faculty staff and students. The department also hosts regular professional development seminars where members of faculty share advice about research, teaching, and other skills required for an academic career.

Read about Philosophy research and impact

Find out about research seminars and reading groups

Your student experience

#People of PPLS

As a Philosophy student, you will be part of a thriving and diverse community within the School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Sciences (PPLS). Students are invited to join WhatsApp and/or Discord groups to connect with fellow classmates, and our Philosophy society, one of the oldest student societies in the UK, organises regular events throughout the year.

With around 40 students studying our on-campus programmes and approximately 30 studying online, there are plenty of opportunities to meet new people, develop your subject-area knowledge and have fun in a welcoming and supportive environment.

Edinburgh Philosophy Society

Life after graduation

Graduation

Find out what students do after their degree and how the programme at Edinburgh helped them prepare for work and further study.

Spotlight on alumni

Our School on social media

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Find out about the School's latest research, news and student life by connecting with us on social.

Instagram   Facebook   Twitter 

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Get in touch

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch with our School Postgraduate Office who deal with admissions as well as on-programme administration. If you would like to meet staff and students to find out more about studying philosophy and student life at Edinburgh, check dates for upcoming open days and visits.

Postgraduate Office

Open Days