English and Philosophy

English and philosophy are two of the humanities' most intellectually demanding and intellectually rewarding disciplines, and they share more than might at first appear. Both ask fundamental questions about what it means to be human, how we understand and communicate our experience of the world, and what standards should guide our conduct and our interpretations. Literature is itself a form of philosophical inquiry, exploring through narrative, imagery, and voice questions about ethics, identity, truth, and value.

Philosophy, in turn, is deeply engaged with the analysis of language and meaning. Studying them together at Aberdeen, which is the UK's second most highly-rated research hub for English literature, language, and creative writing, gives you a rigorous and stimulating training in both.

This four-year programme develops your ability to read, analyse, and write about literature across a range of periods and traditions, while simultaneously developing philosophical skills of argument, conceptual analysis, and ethical reasoning. You will engage with the big questions, from the nature of knowledge and reality to the grounds of moral judgement and political obligation, alongside a deep engagement with poetry, fiction, drama, and the history of literary thought. The programme includes a year abroad, which provides the experience of studying in a different intellectual and cultural environment.

The transferable skills the degree develops, in particular the capacity for clear thought and precise expression, are valued very widely.

Graduates with a background in English and philosophy go on to careers in law, journalism, publishing, education, the civil service, management, consultancy, policy, and the creative industries. The combination of literary and philosophical training is particularly valuable in roles that require engaging with complex ideas and communicating them clearly. Further study at postgraduate level in literature, philosophy, law, or creative writing is a natural progression for many graduates.