Philosophy, Psychology and Scientific Thought, BA, University of Leeds

Course content

Modules in your first year will introduce you to different aspects of philosophy and psychology, such as biological, developmental and cognitive psychology, questions of knowledge and the self. You can also choose from optional modules on topics such as ethics, the philosophy of Descartes and the links between magic, science and religion.

From this foundation, you'll take further core modules in topics such as cognitive neuroscience and philosophy of the mind over the next two years, as well as choosing from a wide range of optional modules across philosophy, psychology and history of science. You could look at ancient philosophy, psychological disorders, metaphysics, learning theory, and the ethics of life and death to name a few.

Throughout your degree you'll be developing a wide range of skills including research, interpretation and analysis, and in your final year you'll have the opportunity to apply them to an independent research project on a topic of your choice across philosophy and history of science.

Course structure

These are typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

Year 1

Follow the links to the Programme Catalogue for more example optional modules and the full course structure.

Compulsory modules

• Entry requirements, fees and applying

  Entry requirements

  A-level: AAB

  • Career opportunities

    Because this degree crosses so many disciplines, it will grant you an impressive range of subject knowledge. But you'll also develop valuable transferable skills that really stand out to employers. You'll have strong research skills and be able to interpret and analyse both qualitative and quantitative data. You'll also be confident working independently or within a team, and you'll have the advanced communication skills necessary to present and defend your own arguments.

    These are all valuable skills that have allowed graduates to pursue a wide range of careers in areas such as charity work, the civil service, politics, education, journalism, the media and management. They'd also be valuable in fields such as social work, marketing and consultancy. Many of our graduates go on to pursue postgraduate study or further training.

    Careers support

    We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That's one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

    Leeds for Life is our unique approach to helping you make the most of University by supporting your academic and personal development. Find out more at the Leeds for Life website.

    The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more at the Careers website.

  • Study abroad and work placements

    All University of Leeds students can apply to spend a year studying abroad. It's a great way to gain an insight into another culture, as well as gaining valuable experience that will look great on your CV.

    The School of Philosophy, Religion and History of Science also has exclusive exchange links with universities in Denmark, France and Spain - language classes are available before you go to prepare you for the experience.

    Read more about Study abroad in Philosophy, Religion and History of Science

    Work placements

    Practical work experience can help you decide on your career and improve your employability. On this course you have the option to apply to take a placement year module with organisations across the public, private and voluntary sectors in the UK, or overseas.

    Find out more about work experience on the Careers website.

    You'll also have additional opportunities to gain work experience during the degree. For example, you can apply for our Philosophy Students into Schools module which allows you to spend time planning and delivering lessons, or you can get involved in the ongoing development of the Leeds Museum of the History of Science, Technology and Medicine.