PhD Philosophy

University of Essex

Our Integrated PhD in Philosophy at Essex is designed for students who seek to engage deeply with both theoretical and applied philosophical questions, blending foundational postgraduate training with the pursuit of independent research. Philosophy at Essex is distinctive for its commitment to addressing existential, social, and political issues that connect directly to everyday life. Our course bridges the divide between analytic and continental traditions, fostering dialogue across philosophical boundaries in ways that few universities can offer. The Integrated PhD course begins with Masters-level work, providing a strong grounding in modern and contemporary European philosophy. You will engage with key areas such as critical theory, phenomenology, German Idealism, aesthetics, existentialism, contemporary French philosophy, philosophy and psychoanalysis, and medical humanities. Through the intensive Writing Workshop, you develop essential research, writing, and employability skills, culminating in a research-driven Masters-level dissertation. You then progress onto the PhD, where we offer supervision in a wide range of fields, including continental philosophy, social and political philosophy, history of philosophy, and medical humanities. Essex’s expertise lies particularly in the convergence between analytic and continental philosophy, with research concentrations in moral and political philosophy. Our internationally renowned faculty ensures you have the support and academic environment necessary to produce a substantial body of original research in your chosen area of specialisation. Please be aware that progression to the PhD component of the degree is conditional on successful completion of the Masters and meeting the entry requirements of the PhD course.