Teaching and learning in the Department of Philosophy
All of the lecturers teach with such enthusiasm and interest that lectures are always fascinating
Angus, 1st year student
Learning philosophy involves doing philosophy, not just passively absorbing information – and this requires your active participation. So our teaching aims to get you reading, thinking, questioning, discussing, and writing philosophy yourself.
Our seminar groups are smaller than in many other philosophy departments, and from day one you will find yourself in the challenging world of philosophy as it is actually practised, with experienced staff as your mentors and guides.
Teaching methods
Our main teaching methods are lectures (giving you basic information and a guide to the various topics) and seminars - where you get to grips with the material in more depth, in discussion with a tutor and your peers. But along the way we help you develop your philosophical skills by giving you feedback on your work, and you are encouraged to visit tutors during their weekly ‘Feedback and Advice Times’ for one-to-one discussion.
Essays and examinations
Your work is assessed both by essays and by formal exams - the precise mix depends on your choice of modules, but is typically around 50:50.
There is a lot more information in our detailed course descriptions, or you can email us at philosophy-admissions@york.ac.uk.