COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA Philosophy degree at the University of Reading provides a structured yet flexible exploration of core philosophical questions alongside a wide range of specialised topics. In the first year, students build a strong foundation through compulsory modules such as Reason and Argument, which develops skills in evaluating everyday and academic arguments; Great Works in Philosophy, which introduces influential philosophical texts and traditions; and The Meaning of Life, which encourages reflection on one of philosophy’s central questions. As the degree progresses, students can tailor their studies through optional modules that explore diverse areas of philosophy, including Ethical Argument, Oppression, Inequality, and the Enemies of Democracy, and Meaning and the Mind, which examines consciousness and the nature of mental states. Other optional areas include Global Philosophies, engaging with non-Western traditions such as Buddhist and Jain thought, Aesthetics, which focuses on questions of beauty and art, and Ignorance, Doubt, and Relativism, which addresses theories of knowledge and epistemology. Students may also study Ethics for the Real World, applying philosophical ideas to practical issues in policy and everyday life. A further option includes language study through the university’s language programme. In the final stage, students complete either a dissertation or an independent learning module, allowing them to conduct original research on a topic of personal interest and further develop analytical and writing skills.