Overview

After this, they complete a dissertation of approximately 80,000 words under the guidance of a doctoral panel. The panel is made up of the primary supervisor with whom the student works most closely, and two other members of staff.

Features

There is also the option to finish earlier by writing an MLitt dissertation, which is half the length, and does not have such stringent requirements of originality.

We have significant placement success with our PhD graduates at University College Dublin, some of whom now work in Philosophy departments across Europe, the United States and China.

Programme Structure

Curriculum:

Philosophy

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-07 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-05-30 00:00:00
Starting 2027-01-01 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-30 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

120

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TOEFL^® IBT

90

Schedule TOEFL®

OTE

140

Credits

30 ECTS

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Dublin, Ireland

Disciplines

Philosophy

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

120

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

90

Schedule TOEFL®

OTE

140

Other requirements

General requirements

A detailed 2-page research proposal, along with a table of contents, and a bibliography of at least ten items.

The name of a Philosophy faculty member who might be appropriate to supervise the project. Applicants are advised to contact that faculty member before applying.

Two letters of academic reference. Applicants should ask their referees to e-mail the reference letters directly to philosophy@ucd.ie or they can be uploaded during the application process - this will depend on the preference of referees, not the applicant

A philosophical writing sample (maximum length: 8,000 words), e.g. an MA essay.

A statement of personal interest, or a statement of explanation (maximum length: 1000 words).

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items like Additional medical costs, Repatriation, Liability etc. Make sure your student insurance covers your needs.

Studyportals partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.

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Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at University College Dublin and/or in Ireland, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

13730 EUR / year

≈ 13730 EUR / year
EU/EEA Applies to you

Applies to you

EU/EEA Nationals

7130 EUR / year

≈ 7130 EUR / year

Living costs

Dublin

Ireland

1100 - 1800 EUR / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find PhD's scholarship opportunities for Philosophy.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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