Overview

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The course provides opportunities for students to develop and demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the Philosophy of Medicine and Psychiatry. Students will also have the opportunity to study other areas of Philosophy, selecting from a broad range of modules and covering all areas of the subject.

Geared to philosophy, medical and other graduates, the course introduces students to key concepts, arguments, texts and techniques in the Philosophy of Medicine and Psychiatry.

Key benefits

  • Offers a pathway into the Philosophy of Medicine and Psychiatry, particularly well suited to students whose undergraduate background is in medicine.
  • Offers a wide selection of optional topics, both current and historical, covering the entire philosophical spectrum from aesthetics to logic and everything in between.
  • Located in the heart of London.

Course essentials

This course is suited both to students with an undergraduate degree in philosophy and to those moving into philosophy from another subject at the undergraduate level. It is particularly suitable for students moving into philosophy from a medical background.

The course will provide you the opportunity to develop and demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the Philosophy of Medicine and Psychiatry. You will also have the opportunity to study other areas of philosophy, chosen from a broad range of modules which cover all areas of the subject.

Whether you are a philosophy graduate or studying the subject with us for the first time, our course will provide a firm foundation for subsequent research.

Over the course, you will be required to study modules on the Philosophy of Medicine and The Concept of Mental Disorder, each worth 15 credits. You can choose four further modules (4 x 15=60 credits) from the Department of Philosophy’s Master’s courses. Students new to philosophy are encouraged to take the General Philosophy module in Term 1 (15 credits) as one of these four. You will also write a dissertation of around 10,000-12,000 words during the summer months, on a topic in the philosophy of medicine and psychiatry worth 60 credits. One of these modules can be chosen from outside the Department, if permission is granted. Together these modules will total 180 credits.

Key Information

Course type:

Master's

Delivery mode:

In person

Study mode:

Full time / Part time

Duration:

One year full-time, September to September, two years part-time

Credit value:

UK 180/ECTS 90

Application status:

Open

Start date:

September 2026

Administrative bodies

Regulating body

Application closing date guidance

Base campus

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Strand Campus

Strand Campus feels like the heart of London—historic yet buzzing with energy. Nestled by the Thames, it offers world-class academics, vibrant student life, and endless inspiration from the city’s culture and diversity.