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MA Philosophy

University of Aberdeen

About this course

MA in Philosophy, delivered over a four-year undergraduate duration. Core topics include Research Methods, Communication & Writing. The final year includes a student-chosen dissertation on a philosophical topic under academic supervision.

Written by AI from the university's course page and module list. It can get details wrong, so check the official course page before you rely on it.

Institution
University of Aberdeen
Level
undergraduate
Subject
Philosophy
Duration
4 years
UCAS code
V500
Typical offer
A-level BBC, IB 32
Median salary
£28,500 after 5 years

Entry requirements

A level: BBC IB: 32 points including 5, 5, 5 at HL. SL in English is also required. SQA Highers: BBBB. BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma: DMM in related subjects. Note: BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate (Subsidiary Diploma) achieved at Distinction level, is normally acceptable in lieu of one A Level at grade B.) GCSE English (or equivalent) is required at Grade C/4 or above. GCSE Mathematics at Grade C/4 is also required for Accountancy, Economics and Finance programmes. Irish Leaving Certificate: Five subjects at Higher at H3.

See the highest paying History, Philosophy & Religion degrees in the UK →

What students say

Based on about 11 final-year students who answered, across similar courses at this university (a small group: a rough guide only)

  • Teaching on my course: 99%
  • Learning opportunities: 93%
  • Assessment and feedback: 86%
  • Academic support: 98%
  • Organisation and management: 89%
  • Learning resources: 97%
  • Student voice: 93%

Do students stay on the course?

Based on about 15 students who started (a small group: a rough guide only)

  • Continued on course: 80%
  • Left higher education: 20%

What graduates do next

Based on about 14 graduates who answered, across similar courses at this university (a small group: a rough guide only)

  • Working: 50%
  • Working and studying: 20%
  • Further study: 10%
  • Unemployed: 10%

Most common jobs

  • Business and public service associate professionals: 20%
  • Administrative occupations: 15%
  • Teaching Professionals: 10%
  • Elementary occupations: 10%
  • Sports and fitness occupations: 10%
  • Find their work meaningful: 80%
  • Feel on track for their future plans: 80%
  • Use what they learnt on the course: 55%

Where graduates work (5 years on)

Based on about 30 graduates, across similar courses at this university

  • North East: 5%
  • North West: 5%
  • East Midlands: 5%
  • East of England: 5%
  • London: 15%
  • South West: 5%
  • Scotland: 65%
  • Northern Ireland: 5%

Who gets in

Based on about 15 students who started (a small group: a rough guide only)

  • A levels: 90%
  • Other HE qualification: 10%

Modules

  • Academic Writing for Divinity, History & Philosophy
  • Getting Started at the University of Aberdeen
  • Experience, Knowledge and Reality
  • Controversial Questions
  • How Should One Live?
  • Logic and Argument
  • Dissertation

Questions about this course

How much do graduates of MA Philosophy at University of Aberdeen earn?

The median salary is £29,000 after 15 months, £20,000 after 3 years, £28,500 after 5 years. After five years the middle half of graduates earn between £23,500 and £33,000. The £28,500 median after five years is £4,000 less than the UK median for Philosophy.

What do graduates of MA Philosophy at University of Aberdeen do next?

80% were in work or further study 15 months after finishing (Graduate Outcomes 2023-24).

Are students happy with the teaching on MA Philosophy at University of Aberdeen?

99% of final-year students were positive about the teaching in the National Student Survey 2025-26.

What grades do I need for MA Philosophy at University of Aberdeen?

The typical offer is BBC at A level, or 32 points in the IB. The average entrant had 156 UCAS points.

Does MA Philosophy at University of Aberdeen include a placement year or year abroad?

The course has an optional year abroad.

How many students continue on MA Philosophy at University of Aberdeen?

80% of students continued into their second year, and 20% left higher education.