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PhD in Philosophy and Literature (2021 Entry)

Group of philosophy students



  • Course Code
  • P-V7P1
  • Course Type
  • Postgraduate Research
  • Qualification
  • PhD
  • Duration
  • Full-time: 3-4 years
  • Part-time: up to 7 years


The Philosophy and Literature PhD is a leading course, suiting students who thrive on independent, interdisciplinary study. You will explore a topic in depth as part of an active research community, supervised by experts. Study Philosophy with English or Modern Languages.


The Warwick PhD in Philosophy and Literature is aimed at outstanding students who wish to pursue advanced research ultimately to become professional researchers in, and teachers of, philosophy. The Philosophy and Literature degree is for candidates whose research projects combine philosophical and literary concerns. The combination can be achieved in a number of ways, as aspects of literature can be treated as topics of philosophical inquiry, or a more combined and interdisciplinary approach can be taken.

While many UK philosophy departments possess strength in analytic philosophy or continental philosophy, we are distinctive in having world-leading philosophers from both fields. We also collaborate extensively with academics and practitioners in other subjects including English and other modern European languages.

Find a supervisor

Research proposal guidance


Areas for PhD supervision

The department has particular research strengths in Philosophy of Mind and Psychology, Epistemology, The Philosophy of Art and Literature, Moral and Political Philosophy, 20th Century Continental Philosophy, and Kant and 19th Century Post-Kantian Philosophy.


In addition to regular supervisions, in the first year you will also take our core PhD seminar, which engages you with a broad range of philosophical issues beyond your thesis topic that are central to different philosophical traditions. Additionally, you are expected to attend any relevant postgraduate seminars, including modules on the taught MA programme.


Entry requirements A Master’s level degree in Philosophy or a Master’s degree (or equivalent) with a significant Philosophy component; a writing sample of 2,500 words; a strong research proposal

English language requirements Band B
IELTS overall score of 7.0, minimum component scores of two at 6.0/6.5 and the rest at 7.0 or above

International Students
We welcome applications from students with other internationally recognised qualifications. For more information please visit the international entry requirements page.


For up-to-date information concerning fees, funding and scholarships for Home, EU and Overseas students please visit Warwick's Fees and Funding webpage.

Related Research Courses


PhD in Philosophy

MPhil in Philosophy