PhD Philosophy at University of Hull

Programme overview

The PhD in Philosophy trains outstanding students for advanced research in philosophy and for careers as professional researchers and teachers of the subject. Students write a thesis of up to 80,000 words that can form the basis of professional publication. Philosophy has been taught at Hull since 1928.

Faculty: Faculty of Arts, Social Sciences and Education | Department: School of Criminology, Politics and Law | Duration: 3 years full-time or 6 years part-time, plus up to 12 months (24 months part-time) of writing-up | Intake: February, May and September 2027; January and May 2028 | Study mode: full-time | Location: Hull, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Research areas span ancient philosophy to the present, including art and aesthetics, gender theory, philosophy of mind and embodiment, political philosophy and legal theory, and applied philosophy in ethics, education, image technologies and health. Students also take part in the PGR Development Programme for research skills.

Career pathways

The PhD prepares graduates to become professional researchers in, and teachers of, philosophy; career support for professional success is available.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A Master's degree at merit or 60% and above (or international equivalent) in philosophy, although applications from different disciplinary backgrounds (including the sciences) are considered on their individual merits. Typical offer: 2:1 in a relevant subject. Applicants submit a comprehensive research proposal (field of study, methodology, literature review, significance and original contribution) and an example of written work of 2,000-3,000 words. Contacting a prospective supervisor beforehand is helpful but not essential. International applicants: academic IELTS 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in each skill.

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,238 a year (2026/27). Full-time standard fee per year; part-time £2,619 a year; annual increases may apply for courses longer than one year. Source

International applicants: GBP 18,000 a year (2026/27). Full-time per year; part-time £9,000 a year; annual increases may apply. Source

Intake: 2027 entry; 2028 entry

Duration: 3 years

Apply through the official page: https://evision.hull.ac.uk/pg-pre-pick.html?course=RPPHILX

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