Philosophy

UCAS code: V502

Here's what University of Wales Trinity Saint David says about its Philosophy course.

This Philosophy BA invites you to explore some of the most profound and intriguing questions about life, existence, and the world. Through studying this course, you will engage with the history of philosophy while addressing contemporary issues, developing your ability to think critically and communicate effectively.

At the heart of this programme is a commitment to philosophical reasoning. You will delve into key areas such as ethics, metaphysics, and existentialism, examining concepts like the nature of reality and human freedom. The course also includes the study of political philosophy and applied philosophy, ensuring you understand both theoretical ideas and their relevance to real-world issues.

The programme blends traditional and modern perspectives, introducing you to philosophical texts that span from historical works to cutting-edge ideas in historical and contemporary philosophy. This foundation helps foster an intellectual curiosity about the world while equipping you with practical skills.

Small group learning is a defining feature of the course. This allows for in-depth discussions, close support from academic staff, and the chance to refine your ideas in a collaborative environment. You will also benefit from opportunities to expand your horizons, with options to study abroad and explore new perspectives. These study abroad opportunities can enhance your learning by providing exposure to different cultures and ways of thinking.

Throughout the programme, you will develop skills that are highly valued in various careers. These career skills include critical thinking and analysis, problem-solving, and effective communication. Whether you aspire to work in education, law, public policy, or another field, the Philosophy BA provides a strong foundation for your future.

By the end of your degree, you will have a deep understanding of philosophical ideas, the tools to approach complex problems, and the ability to articulate your insights clearly. The Philosophy BA at UWTSD is not just a chance to study philosophy but an opportunity to grow intellectually and prepare for a meaningful career. For those ready to ask the big questions, this course offers the perfect starting point.

Year 1

The first year introduces you to key areas of philosophy, including ethics, Ancient and Political Philosophy. You will engage with philosophical texts, learning how to analyse arguments and articulate ideas.

Introduction to Ethics Ancient Philosophy (20 credits) Freedom, Equality and Justice: An Introduction to Political Philosophy (20 credits) The Big Questions (20 credits )

Year 2

Building on your first year, you will delve deeper into philosophical reasoning and explore specialised areas such as existentialism, metaphysics and Epistemology. Through critical thinking and analysis, you will refine your ability to evaluate complex ideas and apply philosophical principles to contemporary debates. Opportunities to study abroad enrich your understanding of diverse perspectives.

Humans, Animals and Machines: Exploring the Philosophy of Mind Early Modern Philosophy (20 credits) Existentialism and Phenomenology (20 credits) Freedom, Agency and Responsibility Free-Market Environmentalism, Big Business and Global Politics (20 credits) Metaphysics and Epistemology (20 credits) The Ethics of Life and Death: Contemporary Debates in Applied Ethics (20 credits) Optional

Women and Religion (20 credits) Activism, Protest and Campaigning for Global Justice (20 credits) 20th Century Philosophy (20 credits) Professional Placement (20 credits) Reading Philosophy Confessing with Saint Augustine: God and Religion in the Twilight of the Roman Empire (20 credits) International Mobility Opportunity (60 Credits) Complex Bodies: Questioning Gender, Religion and Sexuality (20 credits) Religions in Africa (20 credits)

Year 3

In the final year, you will focus on advanced topics and interdisciplinary approaches. A key feature is the Independent Project, where you will research a philosophical topic of your choice, guided by expert academic support. This project consolidates the transferable skills developed throughout the course.

Independent Project (40 credits) Humans, Animals and Machines: Exploring the Philosophy of Mind Free-Market Environmentalism, Big Business and Global Politics (20 credits) Early Modern Philosophy (20 credits) Existentialism and Phenomenology (20 credits) Freedom, Agency and Responsibility (20 credits) Metaphysics and Epistemology (20 credits) The Ethics of Life and Death: Contemporary Debates in Applied Ethics (20 credits) Activism, Protest and Campaigning for Global Justice (20 credits) 20th Century Philosophy (20 credits) Reading Philosophy Global Genocides (20 credits)

The programme is assessed in a variety of ways and will include several of the following type of assessment: essays of 1,000 to 4,000 words in length, document analysis, book/ journal reviews, short reports and reflective journals, time tests, seen and unseen exams, field journals, posters, group and individual presentations, dissertations of 10,000 words, wikis, commentaries and film evaluations.