PhD Philosophy at University of Essex

Programme overview

The PhD in Philosophy offers research supervision in continental philosophy, history of philosophy, social and political philosophy and medical humanities. Essex is known for combining continental and Anglo-American philosophy, with notable concentrations in moral and political philosophy. The School hosts the AHRC-funded Essex Autonomy Project and Ethics of Powerlessness.

Department: School of Philosophical, Historical, and Interdisciplinary Studies | Duration: 3 to 4 years full-time (typically 3 years); part-time also available | Intake: January 2027 (full-time) | Study mode: full-time; part-time | Location: Colchester, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Students work mainly on their thesis with a supervisor and two supervisory panels a year. At the first panel in January they submit a 5,000-word Critical Literature Review and a 2,000-word Project Outline.

Career pathways

Many graduates move into research and academic careers at UK and overseas universities; others work in law, the media, local administration, HM Revenue and Customs and the Civil Service.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A good honours degree and a Masters degree, or equivalent, in a related subject, plus a well-developed research proposal. Applicants are normally interviewed, and acceptance depends on research expertise in the department. English language (international applicants): IELTS 7.0 overall with at least 5.5 in all other components, or equivalent.

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,238 a year. Home/UK fee; fees increase for each academic year of study Source

International applicants: GBP 20,625 a year. International fee; fees increase for each academic year of study Source

Intake: January 2027 (full-time)

Duration: 3 to 4 years full-time (typically 3 years); part-time also available

Explore more study programmes

Arts & Humanities