Philosophy MA

Sharpen your thinking to answer the most challenging questions about morality, existence and truth, in a world that’s constantly changing.

We live in a world overloaded with information and misinformation, ethical dilemmas and rapidly shifting norms and values, all vying for our attention.

However, philosophy graduates are among those best placed to navigate these complex and chaotic environments. With highly valued skills in critical thinking, ethical reasoning and intellectual curiosity, these individuals can help shed light on the deep, reflective questions facing our society.

Our Philosophy MA tackles some of the deepest and most complex questions about humanity and our place in the world. At the same time, it also sheds light on extremely practical and political issues.

This course empowers you to take on the key debates, trends and approaches in different areas of contemporary analytic philosophy while enhancing your research and critical analysis skills.

If you have no prior training in analytic philosophy, you’ll learn about the distinctive approach to the many ways of studying this subject and discover some of the most important debates in different areas.

If you do have experience in this field, you’ll have the opportunity to focus intensely on methods, problems and issues that are new to you or that have piqued your interest in the past.

*“The thing I have enjoyed most about the course was the opportunity to attend an almost endless number of research seminars, where one can see present dialectics battled out by masters of their field.”*

*Robert Pezet, MA Philosophy*

Why study at Leeds?

* Engage with a thriving research community: Get supported by active researchers in a stimulating environment based around our research centres.

* Flexible study: You have the option to study this course part-time across 24 months, fitting your studies around your lifestyle.

* Gain real-world industry experience: You’ll get the chance to sign up for a group placement project to acquire experience in contemporary museum and gallery practice.

* Benefit from authentic work experience: Acquire valuable real-world experience as part of a 2-week online Global Industry Programme.

Rankings and awards

Top 50 in the world for Philosophy, QS World Rankings by Subject 2026

Where this degree could take you

Here’s an insight into the job roles some of our philosophy graduates have obtained:

* HR Assistant, AdviserPlus

* Client Development Executive, Allen & Overy LLP

* Sales Executive, Alpine Elements

* Technical Services Manager, ASAPP

* PR Executive, Black Letter PR

* Metadata Manager, Bloomsbury Publishing

* Senior Consultant, Digital Marketing, Capgemini Invent

* Research Assistant, Catsnake Film

Many of our graduates also progress to further study and ultimately pursue academic careers.

Career support

Top 10 most targeted for 10+ years by the UK's leading employers, The Graduate Market 2026, High Fliers Research

At Leeds, we help you to prepare for your future from day one. Our Careers Service has the global expertise and sector-spanning industry partnerships that, combined, go way beyond simply helping you get a job. They provide you with the resources you need to upskill and achieve the future you aspire towards – even in the face of lightning-paced change.