Introduction
The degree starts by developing your understanding of the world we live in through a variety of perspectives, periods and subjects. You will then take two specialist philosophy modules, discovering more about the ideas of philosophers past and present and learning to tackle the big questions of philosophy yourself. You will explore a range of debates in ethics and political philosophy, as well as questions about the nature of the self, the existence of God, and the limits of human knowledge.
Alongside your study of philosophy, you can choose to study a second specialism from art history, classical studies, creative writing, English language, English literature, history, modern languages, music and religious studies. This will entitle you to include both subjects in the name of your degree, or complete your degree with modules chosen from a wide range of options.
Key features of the course
- Specialise in philosophy within a broad and flexible arts and humanities degree
- Develop a range of skills that will be valuable in the workplace and to further study
- Have the opportunity to write an extended essay drawing on independent study
- Select a second specialism to complement and enhance your study of philosophy
Accessibility
We make all our qualifications as accessible as possible and have a comprehensive range of services to support all our students. The BA (Honours) Arts and Humanities uses a variety of study materials and has the following elements:
- studying a mixture of printed and online material – online learning resources may include websites, audio/video media clips, and interactive activities such as online quizzes
- finding external/third party material online
- working in a group with other students
- working with specialist reading material such as works of art and musical manuscripts
- using specialist software (for example the Sibelius music writing package)
- using and/or producing diagrams and screenshots
Program Outcome
This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:
- Knowledge and understanding
- Cognitive skills
- Practical and professional skills
- Key skills
The level and depth of your learning gradually increases as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; elearning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.
Curriculum
Course details
This degree has three stages, each comprising 120 credits.
- You’ll start Stage 1 with a broad introduction to the arts and humanities followed by up to two modules chosen from a variety of subjects.
- Next, at Stages 2 and 3, you'll specialise in philosophy in combination with either a second specialism in arts and humanities or study modules from across the arts and humanities curriculum.