PhD Philosophy at Swansea University

Programme overview

Research degree in Philosophy at Swansea University, based on a substantial supervised project led by the student's own interests and assessed by thesis and viva. Staff expertise includes contemporary political theory, applied ethics, phenomenology, philosophy of emotion, feminism and gender politics and economic justice.

Faculty: School of Social Sciences | Department: Politics, Philosophy and International Relations | Duration: 3 years full-time; 6 years part-time | Intake: October 2026 or January, April or July 2027 | Location: Swansea, Wales, United Kingdom

What you will study

Original research supervised by active researchers, leading to a thesis of up to 100,000 words (PhD) or 60,000 words (MPhil) examined by viva. Students attend skills and training courses and present at departmental seminars and the School of Social Sciences Postgraduate conference; teaching undergraduate tutorials is possible from year two.

Career pathways

A pathway to academia, or employment in education, government or the private sector.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

MPhil: 2:1 undergraduate degree (or non-UK equivalent). PhD: 2:1 undergraduate degree and a master's degree with at least a Merit overall; UK first-class honours graduates without a master's are considered individually. English language: IELTS 6.5 overall with no component below 6.5, or recognised equivalent. Admissions decisions may also take account of the standard of the research proposal or synopsis, performance at interview, competition for places and relevant professional experience. One academic reference is required before the application goes to the faculty research admissions tutor.

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,006 a year (2025/26). UK student full-time annual rate (2025/26 entry point); part-time is half. Charged over the minimum candidature period. Bench fees may apply. Source

International applicants: GBP 20,050 a year (2026/27). PhD full-time tuition, year 1; start Oct 2026 to Jul 2027 Source

Intake: October 2026 or January, April or July 2027

Duration: 3 years full-time; 6 years part-time

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