COURSE CURRICULUM

The Philosophy with Religion and Ethics course at Essex offers a comprehensive program that combines core philosophical study with a focus on religion, ethics, and practical moral questions. In the first year, students develop foundational skills through compulsory modules such as Introduction to Philosophy, which builds critical thinking and analytical abilities, and Death, God and the Meaning of Life, which explores fundamental questions about existence, faith, and morality. Optional modules allow students to tailor their studies, while the Beyond the BA: Skills for the Next Step module supports personal and professional development. The second year deepens understanding with core modules including Philosophy and Religion, Ethics, Texts in Practical Philosophy, and Reading Texts from the History of Philosophy, alongside optional modules and interdisciplinary opportunities such as computing combined with philosophy. These modules develop critical reasoning, textual analysis, and ethical reflection. In the final year, students engage with advanced topics such as Topics in the Philosophy of Religion and Philosophy and Mental Health: The Psychiatric Present and its Crises, while the Philosophy Capstone Module enables independent, in-depth research. Additional optional modules allow further specialization and interdisciplinary study. Across all three years, the course equips students with strong analytical, ethical, and research skills, preparing them for careers in academia, law, public service, or any field requiring thoughtful engagement with complex moral and philosophical issues.