Philosophy of Biological and Cognitive Sciences

Entry requirements

An upper second-class honours degree (or international equivalent) with a minimum average of 65%. This is usually in philosophy or a science subject (typically biological science or psychology). Alternative qualifications can be considered if the relevant skills are demonstrated, applicants who do not hold a Philosophy degree will be required to upload a writing sample.

Months of entry

September

Course content

The Department of Philosophy has outstanding research strength in the fields of philosophy of biology, philosophy of psychology and philosophy of cognitive sciences. We are ranked by the latest Philosophical Gourmet Report as the strongest department in the UK for the philosophy of biology and the joint strongest for general philosophy of science. The department is home to the Centre for Science and Philosophy and currently hosts a number of major research grants in the philosophy of science, including an ERC Advanced Grant on "Representing Evolution", investigating how biological evolution is represented in scientific literature and communication. See our department's research page.

This MA builds on these outstanding research strengths. It is intended for graduates of philosophy, psychology or biology who wish to study philosophy of science with an emphasis on the biological and cognitive sciences. The programme focuses on philosophical issues arising from these scientific disciplines. The history of science is studied in terms of the philosophical debate about the nature of scientific method and knowledge.

As a postgraduate student, you will be an active member of the department's flourishing research culture and will be encouraged to take part in our regular research seminars, workshops and reading groups, including regular seminars in philosophy of science, featuring well-known scholars in the field from Bristol and beyond (see our events pages). There is also a dedicated postgraduate seminar, where you will have the opportunity to present your own work, helping you to develop your ideas in a supportive environment.

Information for international students

See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.

Fees and funding

Funding and studentship opportunities are listed on the Faculty of Arts funding pages.

Further information on funding for prospective UK and international postgraduate students.