Overview

Examining fundamental questions surrounding existence, moral responsibility, and religious belief is central to understanding human culture and social values. The BA (Hons) Philosophy, Ethics and Religion at University of Leeds provides a rigorous, interdisciplinary education delivered by the School of Philosophy, Religion and History of Science. Taught by research-active scholars, the curriculum explores classical and contemporary philosophical theories, ethical frameworks, and world religious traditions in their historical and social contexts. Students investigate critical topics such as bioethics, existentialism, global justice, religious diversity, and the nature of knowledge. The program emphasizes logical analysis, conceptual clarity, and textual criticism, encouraging scholars to construct coherent arguments and evaluate competing worldviews. This degree pathway is well suited for inquisitive, analytical thinkers who wish to address complex moral dilemmas, engage with foundational existential questions, and develop versatile critical thinking skills.

What You'll Learn

• Core concepts in formal logic, epistemology, metaphysics, and the philosophy of mind

• Normative ethics, applied moral philosophy, global justice, and contemporary bioethics

• Global religious traditions, historical developments, sacred texts, and contemporary sociological dynamics

• Methodological approaches to studying religion, secularization, and intercultural belief systems

• Political philosophy, social justice theories, power dynamics, and human rights frameworks

• Analytical textual interpretation, conceptual critique, and formal argument construction

• Specialist elective options covering environmental ethics, philosophy of science, feminist philosophy, and philosophy of religion

• Independent research dissertation or applied capstone project in philosophy, ethics, or religious studies

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will possess a deep understanding of core philosophical frameworks, ethical theories, and global religious traditions. They will demonstrate the ability to critically evaluate complex normative claims, identify logical fallacies, and analyze primary philosophical and religious texts with high conceptual precision. Students develop strong technical skills in qualitative research, logical reasoning, and structured argument construction through active tutorial debates and analytical essay writing. Furthermore, learners master the ability to engage thoughtfully with diverse cultural perspectives, ethical dilemmas, and socio-political issues in modern pluralistic societies. Through specialized elective study and a major final-year research dissertation, scholars cultivate the intellectual agility and persuasive communication capabilities required to excel in public policy, law, journalism, education, civil service, ethical consulting, or postgraduate academic study.