In philosophy, debate and discussion are key.
When you join our department you are joining a vibrant and friendly community where we encourage one another to explore the philosophical topics that we think are both important and intriguing.
The philosophy classroom is so vibrant, with lively debates to the point where boredom of the subject is never a possibility. Philosophy's versatile nature sets you up for the future with strong, valuable skills for all walks of life and areas of work.
Molly
BA Philosophy
A thriving and friendly community
Your study of philosophy will thrive in our welcoming and supportive community of staff and students.
Visiting speaker sessions
You are invited to our weekly guest speaker sessions. Leading philosophers from the UK and overseas talk about their latest research projects - with plenty of time for debate and discussion.
We also host lectures and conferences by organisations such as the Royal Institute of Philosophy and the British Society for Ethical Theory.
Philosophy Society
Come and join our flourishing student-run Philosophy Society.
PhilSoc provides opportunities to mix socially with fellow philosophy students as well as staff, helping you to build friendships to last a lifetime.
The Society hosts a range of functions including games nights, study advice sessions, film nights, and meals out.
Summer Philosophy Day
Join us at our annual Summer Philosophy Day.
Students and staff come together to socialise and get to know one another in a relaxed setting. We play games, debate and socialise.
Ratio conference
You can attend our annual Ratio conference which, for nearly thirty years, has invited world-leading experts to speak on topics of special philosophical importance.
The Philosophy Department invests a lot of time and energy into its students. They care deeply about students' academic success, providing plenty of opportunities for one-to-one conversations with staff and high-quality feedback.
Harry, BA Philosophy
How we support you
In this film, Alice talks about the incredible access she had to one-to-one support as a student in the Department of Philosophy.
One-to-one support
Supported by friendly and approachable staff, you can be assured of the personalised help you will receive throughout your time with us. From overcoming obstacles to pursuing ambitions, we will enable you to make the most of your experience on one of our four-degree courses.
We provide a dedicated academic tutor system that gives you regular and ongoing one-to-one support from a member of staff throughout your degree. You will meet with your tutor at least once a semester although you are encouraged to drop in at any time. Your tutor will help and support you in achieving your goals and aspirations.
You will receive a high level of staff and student interaction time. We believe closer relationships with academics along with small class sizes help you to develop the confidence and skills to engage in debates and discussions.
If you choose to do a dissertation in your final year, you will receive intensive one-one supervision all the way from the planning stage to final submission.
"All of my lecturers were really approachable, and all the lectures were always so informative and engaging. I knew that if I ever needed extra support or advice on coursework, there was always someone willing to help. In particular, my academic tutor was brilliant, always happy to help me at any point.
Evie Gavriel
BA Philosophy and English Literature
Life on campus
Our main campus is set on 130 hectares of beautiful parkland, so you'll find plenty of places to relax. Our campus is home to a thriving community and features the Students' Union, Library and places to eat.
Read James' story
At Reading, I never felt like I could get lost in the system. The relatively small class sizes mean that you get to know your lecturers and they get to know you on a personal level.
James Hart
PPE student
Life in Reading
Step off campus and you'll find yourself in a bustling town centre offering a variety of shops, restaurants and activities. We're also well-connected – you can reach London Paddington within half an hour by train.