3-Term Pathway - International Foundation Year in Social Sciences and Humanities - Continue to Bachelor of Arts - English Literature and Philosophy (Placement Year)

This program will prepare students for entry to Year 1 of an undergraduate degree in a wide range of subjects, including many based at the £10m LICA building. Popular subjects include law, film studies, sociology, linguistics and politics.

Intrigued by fundamental questions such as the nature of right and wrong? Truth and knowledge? Faith and reason? Keen to learn how philosophers from both Western and non-Western traditions have discussed these topics? Philosophical ideas can help one understand and respond to contemporary practical issues, as well as timeless problems of human existence.

A Rich and Varied Programme

Students will study famous thinkers from the Western tradition of philosophy, such as Plato, Kant, Descartes and Nietzsche. They’ll also learn from the experts in non-Western philosophy with their insights into Indian and Islamic traditions. Lancaster also places particular emphasis on how philosophy is relevant to daily life.

Students may wish to specialise in the more practical side of philosophy, exploring moral and political questions such as obligations to future generations or the basis of ethics. Or students may opt to focus more on the more theoretical side, exploring logic or the relationship between mind and body. They’ll discover connections between abstract and more practical ideas – for example, how the nature of knowledge connects with scientific enquiry, communication and even conspiracy theories.

Putting Studies Into Practice

Students can apply for one of the internships offered every year by the Richardson Institute for Peace Studies, based in the department. These are research projects in external organisations such as NGOs, think tanks, charities and faith-based organisations. Lancaster also offers placement opportunities in a range of organisations, from roles in arts and heritage organisations, to media and marketing agencies.

The University runs short, overseas trips to give students the chance to experience a different culture. In the past these have included Malaysia, India, Ghana, China and the US, visiting the J.F.K Presidential library, the United Nations and the 9/11 Memorial Museum.

A Lively Department

Several of the staff are involved in national and international advisory groups and Lancaster students benefit from these connections. Lancaster organises conferences, talks and seminars throughout the year.

Students take part in the many clubs and societies that are supported by Lancaster University Student’s Union. This includes the Philosophical Society that organises regular discussions, debates and guest speakers, as well as international societies representing different countries, faith groups, political groups, debating society, InterVol and many more. There are regular events, trips and high profile visiting speakers, which provide numerous ways to get involved and meet other students who share the same interests.