Faculty: Faculty of Humanities, School of Philosophical, Historical and Interdisciplinary Studies. This four-year Bachelor of Arts with Honours (BA Hons) program focuses on the tradition of Continental Philosophy, including thinkers and movements such as phenomenology, existentialism, hermeneutics, critical theory, deconstruction, and post-structuralism. The curriculum includes a dedicated placement year, providing students with practical work experience relevant to their studies and career aspirations. The core philosophical content will involve the close reading and analysis of key texts, exploring fundamental questions about existence, consciousness, knowledge, ethics, society, and culture from these perspectives. The placement year aims to enhance employability and provide real-world application of philosophical skills.

Career options are enhanced by the placement year, potentially leading to roles in areas such as research, journalism, publishing, arts administration, cultural criticism, social policy, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and various sectors that value critical thinking, complex problem-solving, and strong analytical and communication skills gained through philosophical study and practical experience. The placement year provides valuable professional connections and insights.

The University of Essex offers a forward-thinking environment and a diverse international community within its Faculty of Humanities, which includes the School of Philosophical, Historical and Interdisciplinary Studies. Essex is a centre of world-leading research excellence, particularly noted in the social sciences, which can enrich the interdisciplinary aspects of philosophical study. The university's location offers a balance of being close to beautiful countryside while also being only an hour away from London by train, providing access to both natural and urban environments and potential professional opportunities in London-based organizations. The inclusion of a placement year further enhances career prospects.