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PhD in Philosophy

The PhD in Philosophy at the University of Aberdeen is a research degree. Research degrees are defined by the student’s own research proposal, on which (s)he will write a thesis. Research students read on their own research topic and work closely with their supervisors to define, research and write a thesis. They also attend regular research seminars - in particular the Philosophy Colloquium, and (if relevant) the CHPSTM Research Seminar and the Research-Related Special Subject seminars. In addition, they are offered opportunities to take part in all aspects of the research community here, including conferences, and for some postgraduates, undergraduate teaching experience.

To be accepted into the PhD programme, an applicant must secure a research supervisor. Information about the interests and specialization of current philosophy staff is available on their personal web pages, linked to the departmental Staff page. Applicants should write directly to the most suitable member of the department describing their intended project to see whether it can be supervised here.

Duration: full-time 36 months; part-time (UK and European students only) 60 months.

Entrance requirements

In general, a good first class Honours degree (or foreign equivalent) and Masters degree in philosophy or other appropriate subject. For international applicants, proof of proficiency in English is required. The accepted certificates and minimum scores are listed as follows: IELTS overall score 6.5, which must include Listening 5.5 or above, Reading 6.0 or above, Speaking 5.5 or above, Writing 6.0 or above. For required scores in TOEFL iBT and PTE Academic, please look at www.abdn.ac.uk/international/english-requirements.

Philosophy Studentships available for 2013/2014

Interdisciplinary Studies in Epistemology NEW!
New Frontiers in Philosophy of Science NEW!

Making an application

Applicants must submit the following supporting documents alongside their application form:

Copies of degree certificates from their previous academic studies
Academic transcripts - The transcript, which lists all of the classes taken and marks gained, must be requested by the student and sent to us. You should therefore get in touch with the University where you gained your degree, and they will tell you what you need to do and will arrange to produce and send us the transcript.
Two academic references; either submitted online with your application form, scanned and sent to dhp-pgs@abdn.ac.uk by your referees or please provide the details of the referees on the application form. Applicants may also send the reference letter, in a signed sealed envelope, directly to the school at the address below.
Your research proposal

If you have any queries about making your application, please contact the Postgraduate Secretary

Postgraduate Applications Secretary
School of Divinity, History and Philosophy
50/52 College Bounds
University of Aberdeen
Aberdeen AB24 3DS
Scotland, UK
Email dhp-pgs@abdn.ac.uk
Telephone: +44 (0)1224 272890
Fax: +44 (0)1224 273750

For more information about areas of supervision or to correspond with a potential supervisor, please visit our staff page.

International students should note that there is an application deadline at the end of June, so that visa applications can be completed in time for Autumn arrival; EU students may apply later.

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