Philosophy

Develop analytical rigour and critical reasoning

Do we have any knowledge of the external world? Does time flow? What is a work of art? By studying philosophy, you will develop analytical rigour and the ability to criticise and reason logically, and to apply these skills to questions like these.

Short courses for adult learners

Philosophy offerings include introductory courses, political philosophy, critical reasoning, ethics and bioethics, philosophy of religion, and much more. 

Many of our short courses, including flexible online courses, weekly classes (both in Oxford and online) and some summer schools, can be studied for credit, which means they can count towards a recognised qualification such as our Undergraduate Certificate of Higher Education.

Graduate study and professional development

The MSt in Practical Ethics is highly interdisciplinary part-time master's degree focusing on the application of rigorous philosophical analysis to real-life ethical problems. Modules from the programme can also be taken as stand-alone short courses for professional development.

Upcoming courses

Online - live • Short courses
  • Tue 18 Apr 2023 – 27 Jun 2023
  • 11 meetings
  • 12:00 – 1:00pm
Online - live • Short courses
  • Tue 18 Apr 2023 – 27 Jun 2023
  • 11 meetings
  • 3:30 – 4:30pm
Online - flexible • Short courses
  • Wed 19 Apr 2023 – 07 Jul 2023
Online - live • Short courses
  • Wed 19 Apr 2023 – 28 Jun 2023
  • 11 meetings
  • 1:00 – 2:00pm
In-person weekly • Short courses
  • Tue 25 Apr 2023 – Tue 27 Jun 2023
  • 10 meetings
  • 7:00 – 9:00pm