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How to apply

Overall, I would say that studying philosophy teaches you to think carefully and precisely, a quality I’m sure most employers value highly.

Alan, Philosophy graduate

See our course pages for details of the various degree programmes we offer. 

School and college leavers

Our standard offer is AAB at A level (or equivalent). We require no particular subjects for single subject Philosophy (though some joint degrees will have special requirements), but a mix of science and arts subjects is the ideal combination.

Do get in touch if you have any questions about offers, or the qualifications we can accept. We usually make admission decisions on the basis of the UCAS form; interviews are used only rarely.

Mature applicants

We always welcome applications from mature candidates (21 or over). They usually do well, and make a special contribution to the Department. Each case is considered on its merits, and where conventional qualifications are lacking we may interview candidates or invite them to complete a piece of written work. 

International students

Philosophy at York has an international flavour with good links to colleagues in other countries. We welcome international applications, and greatly value the students (and staff!) who join us from overseas. The University may offer scholarships to international students.

Visiting undergraduate students are very welcome; please apply via the University's Visiting Students page. To check which modules are currently on offer please see our ‘For Current Students’ pages. 

Your application

Applications should be made through UCAS. We encourage you to visit York on one of our Open Days, but if you cannot make these dates we will try to meet you during an independent visit.

If we offer you a place we will also invite you to a Visit Day where you can ask questions about the course and university life, meet our students and staff, and look around the campus and the city.

Any questions? Please get in touch with our Admissions Tutor Dr Chris Jay at philosophy-admissions@york.ac.uk or on 01904 323251.