The first year

Laying the Foundations

The first year of your Philosophy degree introduces you to the subject and provides you with the foundations which you'll need to deepen your level of philosophical understanding. Our first year modules cover a broad range of topics: they include the study of moral and aesthetic questions, of the philosophical questions raised by religion and politics, of the subject's remarkable history plus examinations of the nature of knowledge, the human mind and the fundamental norms of reasoning. We rely upon the traditional teaching techniques of lectures and seminar groups; but we also employ exciting inquiry-based learning methods which enable you to develop your own research techniques.

A Modular System

The Sheffield teaching and assessment system is 'modular', meaning that students acquire a set number of Credits for successfully completing course modules. To continue in Philosophy after a given year, both Single honours and Dual honours students must take at least 40 credits - two full modules - in Philosophy; we recommend that Single honours students take at least 80 Credits in each year (many choose to do more). It's worth noting that, unlike many other universities, we do not have any compulsory modules.

Assessment

Just as our first year modules cover a wide range of philosophical topics, so we also use an innovative blend of assessment methods. There are exams and coursework, as you'd expect; but we also have special modules which require students to co-operate in the production of philosophical research resources using guided research teamwork.  

Open days, applying and contacts

Ready to apply? Want to visit? Then click one of the links below for further information about applying to study Philosophy at Sheffield:

• Open days
• The applications process
• Contact us