Show/Hide navigation
University of Reading University of Reading
Mobile search categories
mask
CHOOSE A SUBJECT
2023/24
2024/25

BA Ethics, Value and Philosophy

  • UCAS code
    V590
  • A level offer
    BBB
  • Year of entry
    2024/25 See 2023/24 entry
  • Course duration
    Full Time:  3 Years

Examine some of our most fundamental ideas about truth, reality, right and wrong and challenge society's views about them with our BA Ethics, Value and Philosophy.

Studying ethics, value and philosophy at the University of Reading will equip you with the ability to think logically, to evaluate arguments critically, and to challenge your own ideas and those of other people.

We are one of the only universities to offer BA Ethics, Value and Philosophy. You will learn about the central philosophical principles, concepts, problems, texts and figures, with an emphasis on moral philosophy and the theory of value. You will be taught by leading experts and authorities whose research strengths lie in moral philosophy and the philosophy of the mind and language. You will also have the chance to study non-Western philosophies, especially Indian philosophy.

This degree offers you the chance to study a wide variety of topics, from a number of different philosophical traditions. You'll study three compulsory modules in your first year:

  • Reason and Argument
  • Great Works in Philosophy
  • The Meaning of Life.

These modules give you an introduction to moral philosophy and the skills required for all philosophy. You can select three further modules of your choice, with some available from outside philosophy.

In years two and three you will have the opportunity to explore your interests in more depth, with topics such as environmental and business ethics, metaphysics, and philosophy of religion.

Additionally, in your second or final year you can explore the subjects of Ethics, Value and Philosophy from another cultural perspective at one of our partner universities in Europe, the USA, Canada, Japan or Australia. You will be taught in small, interactive seminar groups, encouraging discussion and debate with teaching staff and fellow students.

Placement

We encourage you to take placements as they provide you with a chance to put your newly acquired knowledge and skills into practice as well as allowing you to gain valuable real-world experience.

You can undertake a placement at any point in your degree and work in a company or charity relevant to your final year studies. For example, a previous student worked at a zoo to learn more about the ethical treatment of animals.

Other students have chosen to study abroad for one term in their second or final year. Partner institutions include universities in Europe, the USA, Canada, Japan or Australia.

For more information, please visit the Philosophy website.

New UK/Republic of Ireland students: £9,250

New international students: £22,350

*UK/Republic of Ireland fee changes

UK/Republic of Ireland undergraduate tuition fees are regulated by the UK government. These fees are subject to parliamentary approval and any decision on raising the tuition fees cap for new UK students would require the formal approval of both Houses of Parliament before it becomes law.

EU student fees

With effect from 1 August 2021, new EU students will pay international tuition fees. For exceptions, please read the UK government’s guidance for EU students.

Additional costs

Some courses will require additional payments for field trips and extra resources. You will also need to budget for your accommodation and living costs. See our information on living costs for more details.

Financial support for your studies

You may be eligible for a scholarship or bursary to help pay for your study. Students from the UK may also be eligible for a student loan to help cover these costs. See our fees and funding information for more information on what's available.

Throughout our degrees students complete career and skills related modules, encouraging them to think about what careers they would like and what skills they will need.

Studying Philosophy will equip you with a range of transferable skills. In particular you'll develop skills in clear thinking, logical analysis and the critical assessment of argument, which are greatly valued in a variety of professional careers such as law, politics, management and marketing. 

Recent graduates have found employment in the civil service, journalism, consultancy, finance, local and central government, and recent employers have included the Ministry of Defence, Cambridge University Press, Yellow Media Works, local authorities and other universities.

Around one in four of our students continue their studies, including conversion courses, and teacher training.