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PhD in Philosophy (2021 Entry)

Group of philosophy students



  • Course Code
  • P-V7P3
  • Course Type
  • Postgraduate Research
  • Qualification
  • PhD
  • Duration
  • Full-time: 3-4 years
  • Part-time: up to 7 years


The Philosophy PhD is a leading course, suiting students who thrive on independent study. You will explore a topic in depth as part of an active research community, supervised by experts at the University of Warwick's Department of Philosophy.


The Warwick PhD in Philosophy is aimed at outstanding students who wish to pursue advanced research in philosophy and ultimately to become professional researchers in, and teachers of, philosophy.

As a PhD student, you will produce a maximum 80,000 word thesis that can provide the basis for professional publication. While many UK philosophy departments possess strength in analytic philosophy or continental philosophy, we are distinctive in having world-leading philosophers from both fields.

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 2500 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.