Ethics, Religion and Philosophy

Questions about religion and ethics are considered by us all at some point in our lives. And it’s these questions that lie at the heart of this course.

You’ll consider theories about goodness, what we morally owe to each other, the meaning of human existence, the nature of divinity, faith, and our relation to the transcendent from Eastern, African, and Western cultural perspectives and religious institutions. You’ll explore how philosophical reflections on morality and religion have shaped our ideas about humanity, and the challenges the modern world poses. Along the way, you’ll find your philosophical voice and develop a rich set of digital, analytical, and critical skills invaluable for your future – with the power to positively influence others and drive progressive change.

As a philosophy student, you will be joining a hub of research-active philosophers, with many of them being invited to present at major international conferences and workshops. Our staff work across key areas including metaethics, normative ethics and philosophy of religion – with this expertise behind us, we provide a rounded, balanced understanding of the subject.

You may also have the opportunity to spend your third year studying overseas, including in the US, or on placement, with opportunities available in Britain or abroad.*

This course has a foundation year available.

*Placement and/or study abroad options may be available, potentially extending the duration of study up to 4 years. Study abroad will be subject to any international travel restrictions and/or availability.

Features and Benefits

Learn from experts - our academics are leading specialists in their fields including moral theory and the philosophy of religion. With this expertise behind you, you can be sure your learning is relevant and cutting-edge.

Wide range of units - from your second year, you’ll choose from a diverse range of option units, allowing you to pursue your own interests, including Gender, Race, and Sexuality.

Outside the mainstream - we offer an inclusive curriculum that engages with philosophical thought outside of mainstream philosophy and explores the principles of equity, diversity and inclusivity, allowing you to successfully challenge established modes of thought.

Assessments - we’ll encourage you to think deeply, critically and creatively through a variety of assessment methods including learning diaries, portfolios, and academic blogs.

Employability - we place a strong emphasis on key employability skills, ensuring you have the analytical, digital, communication and team-working abilities that employers value. Our Final Year 'Bioethics' module's assessment brief is co-designed with the Mental Health Foundation. We also offer a distinct link to the PGCE provision at Manchester Met through the final year Philosophy of Education optional units.

Flexibility - this course offers you the chance to change to the general BA (Hons) Philosophy degree route.

The Human Sciences Research Seminar Series - a fixture at the University for 40 years and funded by the Royal Institute of Philosophy, it has hosted internationally renowned thinkers, and today offers you the chance to hear from leading philosophers at the forefront of their research specialisms.

Dedicated Support - we believe that a first-class learning experience starts with an open, inclusive, welcoming, and supportive pedagogical environment. The philosophy staff provide rigorous and enjoyable research-led teaching that intellectually stimulates, challenges, and inspires you – both in-person and online.

Placement or study abroad flexibility - you may have the opportunity to spend your third year studying abroad or boost your career prospects with a placement in industry.