Ten reasons to study philosophy at Sheffield

Ten reasons to study philosophy at Sheffield

1. Develop the way you think and behave

Philosophy looks at fundamental questions, across a huge range of areas, from ethics to logic, and from aesthetics to philosophy of science. It also has a fascinating history. It approaches these questions rigorously and imaginatively, and involves dialogue with others who have different points of view. In seeking answers, it can change the way you think and behave, and challenge you to view the world in a radically new way. It is a subject that will appeal to anyone who enjoys debate and discussion, and engaging with issues that are important to us all.

2. Tuition from leading researchers in all areas of philosophy

Our staff have published dozens of books and hundreds of research articles in leading philosophy journals and edited collections. You will receive the highest quality education from active researchers, no matter what particular areas interest you most.

3. Choose from a wide range of modules

The department currently has over 20 members of staff, all committed to the highest level of teaching excellence. The breadth of our teaching reflects the breadth of our research. We offer a wide range of modules during the three years of an undergraduate degree.

4. Design your own programme of study

Our programme offers students a great deal of flexibility. Core modules in your first year cover the wider subject of philosophy and lay the groundwork for further study. You are otherwise free to design your own pathway, based on your interests, through a wide variety of modules. Our staff approach philosophy in many different ways, so it is only natural that we should encourage diversity in student choice too. Find out more about our courses.

5. Learn in a supportive environment

We care about our students. Each student, whether single or dual honours, has a Personal Advisor in the Department throughout their time here, offering support in both academic and pastoral areas. We offer students the option of having a Philosophy Mentor, a student from the second or third year, to advise you during your first year at University. Students can have one-to-one meetings with staff in their weekly office consultation hours and at other times. And staff meet regularly with student representatives to listen to student concerns, and get your perspectives on departmental policies.

6. A chance to study abroad

You have the opportunity to study abroad during your degree, choosing to take a year or a semester in another country rather than in Sheffield. We have study abroad programmes available with over 30 Universities in Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, India, New Zealand, Singapore and the United States, as well as several universities in continental Europe. And if you take philosophy as a dual with Modern Languages and Cultures, you will spend an additional year abroad anyway as part of your degree.

7. An active community of philosophy students

We are proud of the various projects that our students have set up on their own initiative. One of the most successful is Philosophy in the City, formed in 2006 by undergraduates wanting to start their own programme of teaching philosophy in local schools, particularly those in underprivileged areas. This award winning programme continues to flourish and has expanded to include work with young persons’ homeless shelters and probation hostels. And that’s not to mention the extremely active Student Philosophy Society; the Philosophy sports teams; the student-organised philosophy summer ball; the undergraduate conference; and the Undergraduate Philosophy Journal, PhilonoUS, set up and edited by our students.

8. Fantastic extracurricular activities

There is more to university life than academic study. You will also want to be at a university with lots of extracurricular options, and in this respect you simply can’t do better than Sheffield. Sheffield Students' Union has repeatedly been voted no. 1 in the UK by Whatuni Student Choice Awards. With over 200 student societies, the Union offers something for all interests and hobbies, and helps make Sheffield one of the best places to study in the UK.

9. A vibrant and beautiful place to live

Sheffield combines the benefits of a big city with the friendliness and ease of a small town. It has a very active music and theatre scene, as well as fantastic nightlife. And with the Peak District only 15 minutes away, it is easy to get out and enjoy the countryside for walks or outdoor sports. Sheffield also has a very low cost of living and is regarded as one of England’s safest major cities.

10. Excellent career prospects

In the course of your degree you will learn to argue and think clearly, to analyse complex issues carefully and to communicate your ideas in an articulate and accessible manner. Philosophy graduates thrive in a range of careers, including teaching, law, civil services, journalism, publishing, charities, advertising, investment and local government. We offer career advice and guidance throughout your degree, both within the Department and through the University’s excellent Careers Service.