PhD Philosophy at University of Reading

Programme overview

PhD research degree in philosophy at the University of Reading, completed through an original research project written up as a thesis of up to 90,000 words.

Faculty: School of Philosophy, Politics and Economics | Department: Department of Philosophy | Duration: 3-4 years full-time (4-6 years part-time) | Intake: September (most students); a smaller number start in the second semester | Study mode: full-time / part-time | Location: Reading, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Independent original research supervised by an academic team, written up as a thesis (up to 90,000 words) and examined by viva; training is provided through the Doctoral and Researcher College.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Normally an undergraduate degree of at least a 2:1 (or equivalent) or a master's degree, in a subject related to the proposed PhD topic. In some areas, particularly arts, humanities, social sciences and business, applicants are normally only accepted with a master's-level qualification. Applicants in arts, humanities, social sciences and business usually submit a research proposal; applicants to advertised projects or studentships do not need one. English language for international applicants: most PhD programmes require IELTS 6.5 overall; the exact requirement is set in the offer. Apply at least two months (UK) or four months (international) before the start date; most students start in September.

Requirements published at program group level.

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,238 a year (2026/27). Home/Republic of Ireland full-time PhD fee, payable each year of the programme; research expenses may be charged on top for some programmes Source

Intake: September (most students); a smaller number start in the second semester

Duration: 3-4 years full-time; 4-6 years part-time

Apply through the official page: https://www.reading.ac.uk/doctoral-researcher-college/doctoral-opportunities/how-to-apply

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