Philosophy at Murdoch

Located within the School of Social Sciences and Humanities, the Philosophy Program offers students the opportunity both to develop general analytic and interpretive skills and also to examine important moral, metaphysical and epistemological questions. The Program is not restricted to any particular philosophical school or tradition and aims to provide a broad approach to Philosophy that emphasizes connections with other disciplines.

Philosophy gives you an opportunity to study some of the most important yet least considered aspects of human life - the views we take of ourselves and the world, the assumptions they are based on, and the arguments that may justify them. Specific areas of study include our attitudes to life and death, theory of knowledge, issues in natural science, theories of mind, language in the digital age, meaning and interpretation, moral and political theory, business and professional ethics, existentialism and phenomenology, We aim to teach students to think critically, marshal arguments, and express themselves clearly in both speech and writing, thus bringing their trained intelligence to bear upon their private lives and the life we share in society.

As well as being a central area in its own right, Philosophy is an excellent adjunct to almost any area of university study. It combines well with work in the Humanities and the Natural and Social Sciences.

The Program has attracted a lively and able body of students, who include school leavers and a diverse mix of mature-age entrants, overseas students, people wishing to continue their education for its own sake, and those who are returning to the education system after a period away from the discipline of studying. The environment that results is stimulating for staff and students alike.

You may also take units externally, and, although some may not be available in this mode, you can complete an entire degree program in Philosophy externally, if you need to.

Philosophy and Careers

In today's work environment, flexibility of mind, strategic thinking and solid education are in high demand. Philosophy graduates are, therefore, very attractive to the employment market. Jobs in Philosophy are wide ranging and include employment in the public sector, business and the professions where the ability to organise and analyse data, and draw clear, sound judgements are highly valued. Philosophy is also well-suited to those of you who have not decided on a specific career at the outset of your studies, since it allows you to keep your options open while undertaking an exciting and interesting tertiary education.