BA Philosophy and History

The BA Philosophy and History at the University of Exeter helps students develop practical skills through a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials, independent research, project work, and collaborative activities. Students gain experience in analysing evidence, interpreting historical sources, developing arguments, and exploring philosophical ideas while making use of Exeter’s academic resources and research facilities. The programme also provides opportunities such as study abroad and employment experience options, allowing students to apply their knowledge in new environments and build valuable personal and professional skills.

Students strengthen their academic knowledge and career-ready abilities through a range of practical learning experiences:

• Interactive seminars and tutorials: Students take part in discussions and guided learning sessions where they explore philosophical concepts, historical events, and different interpretations while developing confidence in presenting and defending their ideas.

• Research projects and independent study: Students build strong research skills by working with philosophical texts, historical evidence, and academic sources. In the final year, students complete a dissertation project, allowing them to investigate a topic of their choice in depth.

• Group work and collaborative learning: Through discussions, group activities, and shared projects, students improve teamwork, communication, critical thinking, and their ability to consider different perspectives.

• Study Abroad opportunity: Students can choose the four-year BA Philosophy and History with Study Abroad option, spending their third year at one of Exeter’s international partner universities. This experience helps students gain global awareness, cultural understanding, independence, and adaptability.

• Employment Experience option: Students can choose the four-year BA Philosophy and History with Employment Experience, which includes a graduate-level work placement in the UK or overseas. This allows students to apply their academic skills in a professional setting and gain valuable workplace experience.

• Library and research resources: Students have access to the University of Exeter’s library collections, academic journals, online databases, and digital research materials to support philosophical analysis and historical investigation. These resources help students engage with both primary and secondary sources throughout their studies.

• Student societies and academic events: Students can participate in Philosophy and History societies, where they can attend talks, discussions, social events, and activities that extend learning beyond the classroom.

• Digital learning tools: Students use online academic platforms, digital libraries, and research databases to access study materials, complete assignments, and develop effective research methods.

• Research-led teaching environment: Students learn from academics involved in current research across philosophy and history, allowing them to explore topics such as ethics, political thought, cultural change, historical interpretation, and global issues.

• Career-focused skill development: By researching, analysing information, communicating ideas, and solving complex problems, students develop transferable skills that support careers in areas such as education, government, media, business, law, charities, and research.

The BA Philosophy and History at the University of Exeter prepares graduates with a valuable combination of critical thinking, research, communication, and analytical skills that are useful across a wide range of careers. By studying philosophy and history together, students learn how to evaluate evidence, understand complex ideas, and develop well-reasoned arguments, preparing them for roles such as Teaching Professional, Civil Service Officer, Business Analyst, Researcher, Policy Adviser, Marketing Professional, and Charity or NGO Professional.

The programme gives students the flexibility to explore different career paths by developing skills that employers highly value, including problem-solving, independent research, teamwork, and effective communication. Exeter supports students throughout their studies with career guidance, employability opportunities, placement options, and access to professional networks to help them confidently progress after graduation:

• Dedicated Careers Service: Students benefit from the University of Exeter’s Careers Service, which provides personalised career advice, employability workshops, career fairs, employer events, and support with applications and career planning. Students can also take part in initiatives such as the Exeter Award and Exeter Leaders Award, which help them build and showcase professional skills through activities, workshops, volunteering, and work experience.

• Graduate career destinations: Graduates can progress into careers across areas such as education, research, government, business, finance, charities, media, marketing, public relations, administration, and legal services. The analytical and communication skills gained through the degree prepare students for a wide range of professional roles.

• Employment outcomes: The University of Exeter reports that 92% of graduates in Sociology, Philosophy and Anthropology were employed or in further study 15 months after graduation according to the HESA Graduate Outcomes survey 2022/23.

• Professional experience opportunities: Students can choose the BA Philosophy and History with Employment Experience option, which includes a graduate-level work placement in the UK or abroad. This helps students gain practical workplace experience, improve their professional confidence, and strengthen their CV before graduation.

• University and employer connections: Students have access to career fairs, employer events, alumni networks, and professional development activities that help them explore different industries and build connections with potential employers.

• Long-term value of the degree: The combination of philosophy and history provides graduates with adaptable skills that remain valuable as industries continue to change. The ability to analyse information, interpret evidence, communicate ideas clearly, and approach complex challenges strategically gives graduates an advantage in many professional environments.

• Graduation outcomes: Graduates have progressed into employment and further study across a variety of sectors, including finance, consulting, public services, communications, education, research, and cultural organisations. The broad skill set developed through the degree allows students to pursue both traditional humanities careers and opportunities in wider industries.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the BA Philosophy and History, students can continue their studies through postgraduate programmes in areas such as philosophy, history, law, international development, security studies, management, and education. Further study options may include Master’s degrees in History, Philosophy, Conflict and Security, International Management, or related fields, as well as professional qualifications such as law conversion courses or teacher training programmes, depending on their career ambitions.