Philosophy

BA Philosophy

Full-Time Programme

On this course you will investigate questions such as: Who (or what) am I? What is knowledge, and how, if at all, e does one acquire it? What is the mind, and how is it related to the body? Do we have freewill? What is the value of art? What are the proper limits of state power? Can values be objective? Is there a God? At Birkbeck we do not try to foist upon you any particular philosophical doctrines or dogmas; rather, we want you to learn to think for yourself. By participating for yourself in the great philosophical debates, we hope you will develop skills of rigorous reasoning, and that through the study, analysis and criticism of the great works of philosophy you will develop the capacity to make reasoned judgements for yourself.

Requirements

If you are 21 or over, we can waive the requirement for formal qualifications, and make our own assessment of your skills and knowledge, and decide whether these are sufficient to enable you to succeed in your chosen degree programme.

If you are under 21, you will need to meet normal university entry requirements as well as be at least 18 years of age. You must fulfil the formal general entrance requirement with a recognised school-leaving or professional qualification or equivalent - for example:

• Two subjects at A-level.
• One subject at A-level plus two at AS-level.
• Four subjects at AS-level.
• Scottish Highers: five passes (one B and four Cs, or better).
• Irish Leaving Certificate (Honours or Higher level): five subjects (one B and four Cs, or better).
• American College Board Advanced Placement examinations: two subjects at grade 4 or 5 Higher National Certificate or Diploma.
• BTEC Higher Award.
• BTEC Business Award, including two Bs and a C in the final examination.
• BTEC Technician Award, including three full units in acceptable subjects at Level III (two with Merit).
• The International Baccalaureate.
• The European Baccalaureate.