PhD Philosophy at University of Aberdeen

Programme overview

Join the long intellectual tradition of philosophical study at the University of Aberdeen, which has been ongoing since King’s College was founded in 1495.

Department: School of Divinity, History, Philosophy and Art History | Study mode: full-time / part-time | Location: Aberdeen, Scotland, United Kingdom

Career pathways

Aberdeen Philosophy graduates have gone on to enjoy successful careers in a wide range of fields. Some of our PhD graduates now hold full-time academic positions; some MLitt by Research graduates have successfully taken up PhD study at Aberdeen or elsewhere.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

The minimum entrance requirement for admission to the PhD is normally an undergraduate degree with Second Class Honours (Upper Division) in an appropriate field, or equivalent. It is preferable that candidates also hold a Masters’ degree in the chosen area of study. Alongside the application form, candidates should upload the following supporting documents online: Copies of your undergraduate and graduate degree certificates. Academic transcripts for your undergraduate and graduate degrees. Two academic references; either the details of your referees provided on your application form or uploaded online with your application. Your research proposal If English is not your first language and you have not studied previously at an institution in the UK, you will need to demonstrate your proficiency in English by taking an IELTS, TOEFL or PTE academic test.

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,238 a year (2026/27). Full-time Home/RUK research rate (set by UKRI); part-time is 50% of the full-time rate. Source

International applicants: GBP 21,700 a year (2026/27). Full-time international rate for research degrees admitted 2026/27; part-time is 50% of the full-time rate. Source

Apply through the official page: https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-research/apply/

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