Reader in Philosophy
School of History, Religions and Philosophies
BA World Philosopies and ...
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Key information
Key information
- Duration
- 3 or 4 years
- Start of programme
- September
- Attendance mode
- Full-time
- Location
- On Campus
- Fees
-
Home: £9,790
International: £23,780 - Entry requirements
-
A Levels: ABB
Contextual: BBBFor joint degrees with different entry requirements, the offer will be based on the subject with the higher entry requirements. For combinations available with this programme, the range is AAB–ABB.
Course overview
Philosophy has been a significant activity in every society for several thousand years.
It is a basic aspect of all human cultures to ask “big questions” about the fundamental nature of reality, about what it is to be human, what constitutes a good life, beauty, justice, knowledge, and how to confront and resolve ethical quandaries.
The BA World Philosophies and... combined degree is one of the only programmes in the world to provide the opportunity to ask these questions and examine answers from a global, cross-cultural, and decolonial perspective. This degree offers rigorous training in the epistemological standpoints, moral philosophical approaches, metaphysical systems, and socio-political thought of a range of Global North and Global South traditions in dialogue with each other. Because of this, the BA Global Philosophy and ... programme at SOAS is truly unique and state-of-the-art.
In addition to the ability to think critically and rigorously, studying philosophical traditions from Asia, Africa, the Middle East in dialogue with Continental European and Anglophone traditions enables you to take a broad and comprehensive view of the world and to think more deeply, sensitively, and insightfully about humanity, (in)justice, ethics, and real-world problems.
Why study BA World Philosophies and... at SOAS?
- SOAS is ranked top 20 in the UK for Arts and Humanities (QS World University Rankings 2026).
- We are ranked top 10 in the UK for Theology, Divinity and Religious Studies (QS World University Rankings 2026).
- We are ranked top 10 in the UK for Research Quality (Complete University Guide Subject League Tables 2026).
- BA World Philosophies scored above sector in the following categories: teaching quality, learning opportunities, assessment & feedback (NSS 2024).
- We are home to the world’s first ever Decolonising Philosophy Curriculum Toolkit and Handbook.
- Our average 20/21 Graduate Outcome Departmental score is 82.85% (HESA).
Study Abroad
Students are able to apply for the optional year abroad in their second year of studies at SOAS. Students will be invited to information sessions about how to apply during their second year of studies by the Study Abroad team. Student applications are considered on academic merit and a personal statement and are subject to availability. Students need to have achieved 55% or higher in their first year of studies to be eligible. For further details, visit the Study Abroad section of our website.
Use our combined courses tool to see a breakdown of course structure
Key information set data
Teaching and learning
The BA World Philosophies and ... is examined through written and oral examinations and coursework. In addition, the Independent Study Project (ISP) in year 3 facilitates supervised student research in a prominent topic or debate in the field of World Philosophies.
Contact hours
Most courses involve a 50- 100-minute lecture as a key component with linked tutorial classes.
SOAS Library
SOAS Library is one of the world's most important academic libraries for the study of Africa, Asia and the Middle East, attracting scholars from all over the world. The Library houses over 1.2 million volumes, together with significant archival holdings, special collections and a growing network of electronic resources.
Fees and funding
Fees for 2026/27 entrants per academic year
| Programme | Full-time | |
|---|---|---|
| Home students | Overseas students | |
| BA, BSc, LLB | £9,790 | £23,780 |
| BA/BSc Language year abroad | £1,425 | £11,770 |
See undergraduate fees for further details.
Employment
Graduates from the Department of Religions and Philosophies develop the skills to analyse and communicate ideas in a clear, and comprehensive manner. A degree in philosophy is highly regarded by employers of many kinds. Philosophy teaches the student how to analyse and communicate ideas in a clear, rational and comprehensive manner.
Students of philosophy learn solid argumentation skills and critical analysis: they learn how to learn, how to think, and how to communicate their ideas effectively and persuasively. Graduates develop into well-rounded, mature, thoughtful and articulate employees. The skills of vision, creativity and analytical power being developed through the study of philosophy are key proficiencies which are valuable in many careers and are transferable to a wide range of sectors and roles
Find out about our Careers Service.
