The Philosophy degree at Cambridge offers an education in the subject which is both broad and deep. Students can study the central areas of the subject and its history from the Ancient Greeks to the 20th century.

In the first year, there are compulsory courses on metaphysics (the most general speculations about reality), logic (the principles of good reasoning), ethics (the nature and explanation of right and wrong), the nature of meaning, and on certain classic texts from the history of philosophy. In the second year there is a single compulsory paper ‘Language, Mind and World’; the other courses are chosen from a range of options (e.g. political philosophy, early modern philosophy, history of analytic philosophy, aesthetics), and there is the possibility of doing the experimental psychology paper from the natural science tripos. In the final year all subjects are optional and students can choose from a wide range of courses (e.g. philosophy of mind, Wittgenstein and European Philosophy from Kant).

Philosophy at Cambridge is taught in the ‘analytic’ tradition, and there is a strong emphasis in the degree programme on argumentative rigour and clarity of thought and expression. The Philosophy Faculty has particular strengths in ethics, political philosophy, philosophy of mind, metaphysics, feminist philosophy and logic.

Peterhouse has one Philosophy Fellow, Professor Richard Holton. Professor Holton works on moral psychology, ethics, philosophy of language and philosophy of law. All Peterhouse philosophy students have a one-to-one supervision every week, in addition to attending lectures and seminars.

We have no preference regarding what subjects candidates may have studied previously at school, whether arts, sciences or a combination of the two, provided it has developed a careful, accurate and analytical approach to thinking. We are solely looking to offer places to young people of high ability.

Candidates should expect two interviews along with a short written assessment (lasting not more than an hour), intended to assess suitability for this subject, and consisting of questions designed to assess use of logic and reasoning. No special preparation or prior knowledge is required. This will be the same assessment across all Colleges and more information can be found on the University website.

Our typical conditional offer for Philosophy is A*AA at A level. IB offers are usually for a minimum of 40-42 points, to include 776 or 777 at Higher Level in relevant subjects. Offers are designed to be realistic, taking into account individual circumstances, and to reflect potential and likely levels of achievement. Most of those who receive offers will attain the grades required.

If you wanted to explore the subject further, Simon Blackburn's Think is a good starting point.