Philosophy degrees
Develop valuable transferable skills of thinking, writing, and logical argument, and learn how to articulate your own views with clarity, precision, and an open mind.
Study Philosophy at the University of Exeter
Study the many facets of Philosophy in depth including metaphysics, epistemology and moral philosophy. Learn to think rigorously, defend your views, understand different opinions and ultimately develop a sharp, analytical and open mind. You'll have the opportunity to customise your degree according to your own interests and career ambitions through our wide range of optional modules.
Make friends, attend socials and seminars and hear from guest speakers when you join the Philosophy student society.
Get ready for your future career by developing a range of skills valued by a wide range of employers from the media to teaching and the public, private and charity sectors.
Our Philosophy degrees and courses
Our degrees are taught at our Streatham Campus in Exeter.
Undergraduate degrees
Postgraduate degrees
Postgraduate research
Related subjects
If you are interested in studying Philosophy at Exeter, you may also want to consider our programmes in Theology and Religion, Sociology, and Anthropology.
You can search a full list of subject areas taught at the University of Exeter.
Top 10 in the UK for Philosophy
9th in the Complete University Guide 2026
100% of our Philosophy research has internationally excellent impact
Based on research impact rated 4* + 3* in REF 2021
The University of Exeter is 155th in the QS World University Rankings 2026 and 170th in the THE World Rankings 2026
Frequently asked questions about studying Philosophy
We've answered some of our most frequently asked questions below to help you decide if a Philosophy degree is right for you.
What career prospects would I have with a Philosophy degree?
A Philosophy degree equips you with the skills and confidence to thrive in careers across teaching, media, business, social research, the public and charity sectors, and law. Throughout your studies, you will develop sharp analytical, critical, and independent thinking, master research and problem-solving, engage in meaningful discussion and collaboration, and gain expertise in collecting, assessing, and presenting evidence. You’ll also refine your written and verbal communication, learn to construct compelling arguments, and build strong organisation, planning, and time-management skills.
Can international students apply for Philosophy degrees at the University of Exeter?
Yes. Our international student community is part of what makes Exeter a top worldwide university. International students are welcome to apply for Bachelors (undergraduate) and Masters (postgraduate taught) degrees with us, as well as for postgraduate research opportunities.
For more information, visit our international students webpages.
I am currently on my work abroad placement in Brussels working for a Think Tank in European economic policy called Bruegel. It’s been amazing so far. Being immersed in a different culture and meeting new people with completely different experiences of life has been incredible.
Working for a think tank has also immeasurably improved my research and academic skills – I regularly get to attend research meetings with scholars at the top of their field.
Saffron
BA Politics, Philosophy and Economics with Employment Experience Abroad
Globally renowned research
Our world-leading research in Philosophy explores fundamental issues of societal concern from a pluralistic and interdisciplinary perspective. The department has distinctive strengths in the history and philosophy of scientific practice, including biology, medicine, and data studies, through Egenis, the University of Exeter's flagship centre for the study of life sciences.
The department is known, too, for its internationally-recognised research in situated cognition, affectivity, and artificial intelligence. In collaboration with partner disciplines of Sociology and Anthropology, and in dialogue with the wider scholarly community, our expertise covers social and political philosophy, the philosophy of race and gender, and the philosophy of law.