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2025/26
2026/27

MA by Research Philosophy

  • Year of entry
    2025/26
  • Course duration
    Full Time:  12 months Part Time: 24 months
  • Year of entry
    2025/26
  • Course duration
    Full Time:  12 months Part Time: 24 months

MA by Research Philosophy is an intensive but flexible research-based philosophy programme for graduates looking to further their studies.

Broaden your philosophical knowledge in an intensive but flexible research-based programme for graduates looking to further their studies.

Learn through a combination of classes, seminars, reading groups, lectures and guest speaker events; and focus your research into your chosen area of study. Our MA by Research programme is ideal preparation if you are considering undertaking future doctoral research.

The flexibility of our MA by Research programme enables you to pursue your interests. Structured into weekly seminars where all students present their ongoing work to peers and academics, the course offers regular, individual supervision with expert members of staff in your chosen field. You’ll study in a stimulating research environment where 100% of our research is of international standing. (REF 2021, combining 4*, 3* and 2* submissions – Philosophy)

This course will provide you with valuable skills and the knowledge to succeed, whether you're looking to further your studies or pave the way for a change of career. You will gain a firm philosophical grounding and mastery of specialised areas of study, as well as the ability to critically engage with, and reflect upon, current philosophical debates.

We run a number of events throughout the year dedicated to stimulating and fostering research. These include a full visiting speaker programme, a work-in-progress programme, a graduate seminar, a regular staff-student reading group, and the highly regarded annual Ratio Conference. Our dynamic student and staff community is a vital part of our department, and you will be supported throughout your studies by our dedicated teaching staff and friendly support staff.

For more information, please visit the Philosophy website.

New UK/Republic of Ireland students: £11,750

New international students: £25,850

Tuition fee information

The fees listed are for full-time study, unless otherwise stated. Fee information will be confirmed in offer letters sent out to successful applicants. You can find further information, including information for part-time study, through our dedicated fees and funding page.

EU student fees

With effect from 1 August 2021, new EU students will pay international tuition fees. For exceptions, please read the UK government’s guidance for EU students.

Additional Costs

Some courses will require additional payments for field trips and extra resources. You will also need to budget for your accommodation and living costs. See our information on living costs for more details.

Financial support for your studies

You may be eligible for a scholarship or bursary to help pay for your study. Students from the UK may also be eligible for a student loan to help cover these costs. See our fees and funding information for more information on what's available.

Our graduates have gone on to careers in politics, the media, the civil service, advertising, journalism, law, the police, retail, management, and a wide variety of other professions.

Our MA by Research students also finish the programme well prepared for PhD research. Previous master’s students have gone on to do PhDs at Reading, and at other excellent institutions in the UK and elsewhere.