Course Overview

Lancaster's combined Philosophy and Religious Studies degree gives you the opportunity to benefit from world-class resources and tutors. Our teaching of both Philosophy and Religious Studies is ranked first in the North West in The Complete University Guide 2012.

You'll divide your time equally between Philosophy and Religious Studies courses debating pressing questions such as: what is religion how have religious traditions developed? What is truth and how can it be reached? How have Philosophy and Religion interacted in history and how should they interact today? 

Your degree gives you a thorough grounding in both subjects and the opportunity to specialise. You'll start with courses including Introduction to Philosophy and World Religions before moving on to second-year subjects such as Philosophy of Science; Knowledge and Reality, and Western Philosophy and Religious Thought. You'll complete your degree with modules that include Religion in Schools and Ethics and Aesthetics.

For a list of compulsory modules, please see the tab above.

The department has been absolutely fantastic, lecturers have been incredibly approachable and enthusiastic about their work.

Career opportunities

The skills and knowledge developed during your degree programme make it possible for you to follow many careers. In increasingly multicultural societies and an integrated world, graduates with an understanding of other faiths, cultures and values are highly regarded. Your philosophical training and communications skills also transfer well to the workplace, where conclusions based on careful assessment of arguments are valued.

Lancaster's Philosophy and Religious Studies graduates have chosen a wide range of careers, including roles in the Civil Service, journalism, banking, the police and business, as well as teaching and the caring professions. 

Some alumni also pursue further study through a postgraduate degree at Lancaster and other institutions.