PhD Philosophy

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The School of Humanities and Heritage offers advanced research opportunities in the subject of Philosophy.

Research students will be able to access support and training to develop the practical and critical skills necessary for investigation and study at the doctoral level. Research students can benefit from expertise in the history and philosophy of science, philosophy or religion, the philosophy of mind, moral philosophy, metaphysics, and aesthetics.

Regular research seminars aim to provide a stimulating environment in which to discuss and debate theoretical concepts with fellow students, scholars, and visiting academics. Strong links exist with the Schools of Mathematics, Physics, and Psychology, and an interdisciplinary research culture facilitates collaboration with colleagues across a wide range of topics.

Students are offered support in developing their research, writing and presentation skills through a range of initiatives and opportunities in Lincoln's Doctoral School.

How You Study

Studying at MPhil/PhD level takes the form of supervised individual research. Students work on one topic of their choice for the duration of the study period. Students are expected to produce appropriate written work to their supervisors on a regular basis, who can then provide feedback and agree on the next stage of work.

Due to the nature of postgraduate research programmes, the majority of time is spent on independent study and research. Full-time students will usually meet with their academic supervisors once a month; part-time students will meet with their academic supervisors every other month.

Prioritising Face-to-Face Teaching

At the University of Lincoln, we strive to ensure our students’ experience is engaging, supportive, and academically challenging. Throughout the Coronavirus pandemic, we have adapted to Government guidance to keep our students, staff, and community safe. All remaining Covid-19 legal restrictions in England were lifted in February 2022 under the Government’s Plan for Living with Covid-19, and we have embraced a safe return to in-person teaching on campus. Where appropriate, face-to-face teaching is enhanced by the use of digital tools and technology and may be complemented by online opportunities where these support learning outcomes.

We are fully prepared to adapt our plans if changes in Government guidance make this necessary, and we will endeavour to keep current and prospective students informed.

How You Are Assessed

The assessment at this level of study takes the form of an 80,000-word thesis.

A PhD is usually awarded based on the quality of the student's thesis and ability to present and successfully defend their chosen research topic in an oral examination (viva voce). They are also expected to demonstrate how their research findings have contributed to knowledge or developed existing theories or understandings.

Fees and Funding

For eligible students, there are more ways than ever before to fund your postgraduate study, whether you want to do a taught or research course. For those wishing to undertake a Master's course, UK students can apply for a loan as a contribution towards the course and living costs. Loans are also available to those who wish to undertake doctoral study. The University offers a number of scholarships and funded studentships for those interested in postgraduate study.

Entry Requirements 2023-24

A relevant Master's degree.

Overseas students will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 6.0 in each element.

If you do not meet the above IELTS requirements, you may be able to take part in one of our Pre-session English and Academic Study Skills courses. These specialist courses are designed to help students meet the English language requirements for their intended programme of study.

Research Areas, Projects and Topics

Research areas covered within the School include:

• History and Philosophy of Science
• Philosophy of Religion
• Philosophy of Mind
• Post-Kantian European Philosophy
• Moral Philosophy
• Metaphysics
• Aesthetics

How to Apply

New students are encouraged to enrol in October, February, or May to support their experience within the postgraduate research community.

In addition to meeting peers across the University who are starting their research programme at the same time, there is access to a central training programme designed around the first three months of study, and targeted support aligned to each stage of the postgraduate research journey. Alternative enrolment dates may be agreed upon with the supervisor on an individual basis.

Applicants with appropriate projects will be offered an interview with the programme leader and a subject specialist where they can discuss the details of their research proposal.

Career Opportunities

A doctoral qualification can be the capstone of academic achievement and often marks the beginning of a career in academia or research.

How You Study

Over the course of your studies, you will be expected to complete an original piece of research that makes a contribution to the existing scholarship on, and knowledge of, the subject under scrutiny. You will be guided throughout this process by expert and well-published supervisors, from whom you will receive feedback and advice. Your Ph.D. project might cross disciplinary boundaries and focus on multiple subject areas; in such cases, we will endeavor to support you through the allocation of supervisors in relevant fields.

Due to the nature of postgraduate research programs, a significant amount of time will be spent on independent study and research. You will need to take considerable responsibility for your studies, including time management, project planning, and writing drafts of your work. You are expected to submit appropriate written work regularly to your supervisors and to act on the feedback received. You will have regular meetings with your academic supervisor(s) who will discuss the development of the research, comment on written drafts, and agree on the next stage of work.

Students will have access to support and training to develop the practical and critical skills necessary for study at the doctoral level.

The School of Humanities and Heritage provides a stimulating research environment within which our postgraduate community plays a central role. Research seminars and staff-student reading groups foster cross-disciplinary debates and collaboration, as well as provide opportunities for career development.

Research Topics

Research areas covered within the School include:

• History and Philosophy of Science
• Philosophy of Religion
• Philosophy of Mind
• Post-Kantian European Philosophy
• Moral Philosophy
• Metaphysics
• Aesthetics

A full list of our staff’s research interests can be found on our staff research profiles.

How You Are Assessed

The assessment at this level of study takes the form of a thesis of 80,000 words (Ph.D.) or 40,000 words (MPhil), which is deemed to make an original contribution to knowledge and to be suitable for publication (in whole or in part).

You will normally need to defend your thesis in an oral examination (viva), where you are expected to demonstrate an expert understanding of your subject and to show how your research findings contribute to knowledge or build on existing understandings of the subject

A doctoral qualification may be regarded as the capstone of academic achievement and may mark the beginning of a career in academia. Our School’s former students have also taken up careers in research, research administration, publishing, arts and heritage, and teaching in various contexts.

The University’s Doctoral School provides a focal point for Lincoln’s community of researchers, where ideas and experiences can be developed and shared across disciplines. It also offers support and training to help equip you for both academic and non-academic careers.