LONDON SCHOOL OF ECONOMICS AND POLITICAL SCIENCE, UNIVERSITY OF LONDON · UNITED KINGDOM
MPhil/PhD Philosophy
PhD · Taught in en · UCAS V7ZP
At a glance
48 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- World-leading research centreDepartment focus
- Research-led teachingCurriculum approach
- Opportunities to teachStudent development
- Association with research centersResearch environment
- Original contribution to philosophyProgram outcome
The MPhil/PhD Philosophy program at LSE is offered by a world-leading department focused on research in rational choice theory, formal epistemology, philosophy of science, and moral and political philosophy. This program is designed for students who wish to conduct research in areas where the department has particular expertise, including the philosophy of natural and social sciences, moral and political philosophy, and decision theory. The program emphasizes research that aims to contribute to both academic discourse and practical applications in various scientific fields and beyond. Teaching is research-led, ensuring students engage with cutting-edge material taught by leading scholars in the field. Upon successful completion, you will have produced a substantial piece of work that makes an original contribution to philosophy and is suitable for publication. You will benefit from the department's strong research environment, including affiliations with the Centre for Philosophy of Natural and Social Science and The Forum for Philosophy, offering numerous research seminars, lecture series, and interdisciplinary events. The program also provides opportunities to gain teaching experience by leading undergraduate discussion classes, which is considered an essential part of developing philosophical expertise.
Curriculum
The MPhil/PhD program structure spans four years, with the initial years focusing on coursework and research development, and later years dedicated to thesis writing and preparation for academic careers. All study plans and module selections are finalized in consultation with your academic supervisor. Students are also encouraged to take transferable skills courses offered by the university's Teaching and Learning Centre or Methodology Institute.
- Year 1
- Philosophical Problems SeminarPH501
- Logic and Probability - ATPH503
- Logic and Probability - WTPH504
- PhD level seminars with associated coursework
- Master's level course
- Year 2
- Research Methods in PhilosophyPH500
- Research Seminar in the Philosophy of Natural SciencesPH551
- Research Seminar in the Philosophy of Economics and Social SciencesPH555
- Year 3
- Research Methods in PhilosophyPH500
- Research Seminar in the Philosophy of Natural SciencesPH551
- Research Seminar in the Philosophy of Economics and Social SciencesPH555
- Year 4
- Research Methods in PhilosophyPH500
- Research Seminar in the Philosophy of Natural SciencesPH551
- Research Seminar in the Philosophy of Economics and Social SciencesPH555
Careers
The program prepares students for academic careers by developing advanced research skills, critical thinking, and the ability to produce original scholarly work. Graduates are equipped to pursue postdoctoral research, secure academic positions, and contribute to the wider academic and professional communities.
- Academic researcher
- University lecturer/professor
- Policy advisor
- Think tank analyst
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic entry requirements for the MPhil/PhD Philosophy program?
- Applicants should hold a taught Master's degree (or equivalent) in philosophy or a relevant discipline, with the equivalent of a distinction overall and in the dissertation component.
- What is the duration of the MPhil/PhD Philosophy program?
- The MPhil/PhD Philosophy program spans four years, with initial years focusing on coursework and research development, and later years dedicated to thesis writing.
- What career paths can graduates pursue after completing this program?
- Graduates are prepared for academic careers such as academic researcher or university lecturer/professor. They can also pursue roles like policy advisor or think tank analyst.
- How do I apply for the MPhil/PhD Philosophy program?
- You should register your interest online, review entry requirements, prepare academic transcripts, degree certificates, a research proposal, CV, and references, then submit the online LSE graduate application.
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for this program?
- All applicants must meet the General English requirement for research programs at the 'Research level' as specified by the university.
- Where can I find information on tuition fees for international students?
- Information on tuition fees for international students is available on the LSE website, as fees are subject to change.
Entry requirements
Taught Master's degree (or equivalent) in philosophy or a relevant disciplineEquivalent of a distinction overall and in the dissertation component.
General English requirement for research programsResearch level
Competition for places is high. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee an offer. Applicants are encouraged to present the strongest possible application.
Fees
Tuition (international)Information on tuition fees for international students is available on the LSE website.
Tuition (home)Information on tuition fees for home/domestic students is available on the LSE website.
LivingEstimated living costs for students are available on the LSE website.
Tuition fees and programme content may be subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances or regulatory requirements. Students will be notified of any changes.
How to apply
1. Register InterestComplete the online registration of interest form to receive information about the program.
2. Review Entry RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic and English language requirements. Consult the country-specific requirements if applicable.
3. Prepare Application DocumentsGather all necessary supporting documents, including academic transcripts, degree certificates, a research proposal, and references.
4. Submit Online ApplicationComplete and submit the LSE graduate application form online.
5. Await DecisionApplications are reviewed by the department, and successful candidates will be notified of an offer.
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic entry requirements for the MPhil/PhD Philosophy program?
+
Applicants should hold a taught Master's degree (or equivalent) in philosophy or a relevant discipline, with the equivalent of a distinction overall and in the dissertation component.
What is the duration of the MPhil/PhD Philosophy program?
+
The MPhil/PhD Philosophy program spans four years, with initial years focusing on coursework and research development, and later years dedicated to thesis writing.
What career paths can graduates pursue after completing this program?
+
Graduates are prepared for academic careers such as academic researcher or university lecturer/professor. They can also pursue roles like policy advisor or think tank analyst.
How do I apply for the MPhil/PhD Philosophy program?
+
You should register your interest online, review entry requirements, prepare academic transcripts, degree certificates, a research proposal, CV, and references, then submit the online LSE graduate application.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for this program?
+
All applicants must meet the General English requirement for research programs at the 'Research level' as specified by the university.
Where can I find information on tuition fees for international students?
+
Information on tuition fees for international students is available on the LSE website, as fees are subject to change.