PhD in Philosophy PhD/MPhil

Tuition fees are 34,349 USD per year.

Overview

When you undertake a PhD/MPhil in Philosophy at Liverpool, you’ll benefit from a long history of combining research excellence in core areas of philosophy, with innovative work at the frontiers of the discipline – from politics to spirituality, Chinese philosophy to speculative futures, neo-Platonism to feminism. We value plurality, innovation and creativity.

Introduction

Philosophy explores a set of approaches and methods that can help us to make sense of whatever is puzzling, perplexing or interesting in the world around us. In the Department of Philosophy, our thriving community of postgraduate researchers benefit from our research environment and make an important active contribution to it.

While we value our pluralism, we also seek opportunities to work together. Four research groups support our research. When you study with us, you’ll benefit from our programme of visiting speakers, workshops, reading groups and postgraduate activities, and help to foster connections with interdisciplinary research centres and global networks of scholars.

The University of Liverpool, founded in 1882 and located in the vibrant city of Liverpool, is a research-intensive institution with a global student body of around 32,000, including approximately 17,700 international students. The university offers a wide range of programs—over 200—across sciences, engineering, humanities, health and business, combining rigorous academics with practical industry links. Its historic campus and city connections provide a lively cultural setting and strong transport links across the UK and beyond.

Research and employability are central to the Liverpool experience, with interdisciplinary projects, industry partnerships and extensive placement opportunities embedded in many degrees. Students benefit from modern facilities, dedicated career services and a supportive academic community that helps translate theory into professional practice. The university's global networks also create exchange and collaboration pathways for study abroad and joint research.

International students receive comprehensive support from pre-arrival guidance to on-campus services, including English language support, visa advice and student societies that foster social integration. Liverpool’s affordable living costs relative to other UK cities, combined with its cultural life and sporting traditions, make it attractive to students seeking a balanced academic and social experience. The University of Liverpool is well-suited to ambitious students aiming for impactful research, strong career outcomes and a cosmopolitan student life.