Master course in philosophy, 30 Credits

Contents

The course provides in-depth knowledge of philosophy and is intended to be read during the first semester of the second year of second cycle studies in philosophy. It consists of four advanced sub-courses of 7.5 credits each. The topics of the sub-courses can vary from semester to semester. In exceptional cases, a sub-course may consist of an individual literature course. The teaching language is English. The course is indented as a part of a two-year master's degree in philosophy. For students studying the course on campus, internet-based sub-courses can be included.

Expected learning outcomes

After having completed the course students will have:

Knowledge and understanding
- demonstrated good knowledge and understanding of key concepts, theories, problems and arguments in philosophy;
- demonstrated good knowledge of philosophical method;
- demonstrated advanced knowledge in a selections of philosophical sub-areas;

Skill and ability
- demonstrated a good ability to independently analyse and assess philosophical arguments;
- demonstrated the ability to write philosophical texts of good linguistic quality;
- demonstrated a good ability to present their knowledge;

Judgement and approach
- demonstrated insight into the possibilities and limitations of the subject of philosophy and its role in society.

Required Knowledge

Either (a) a bachelor's degree or equivalent first-cycle qualification comprising at least 180 ECTS, of which 60 ECTS credits are in philosophy (or an equivalent subject, such as practical or theoretical philosophy), or (b) 82,5 ECTS credits in philosophy (or equivalent), of which at least 15 ECTS credits consists of a bachelor's thesis in philosophy (or equivalent). In addition, proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English B/6 is required.

Form of instruction

The course consists of seminars/discussions and lectures. If the course is given online, the teaching and student activities will be internet-based.
 
Students are required to have access to a computer and a stable internet connection.

Examination modes

The examination consists of written assignments and active participation in seminars. On the course as a whole as well as the sub-courses, the grades given are Fail (U), Pass (G), or Pass with Distinction (VG). In order to pass the whole course with distinction, the grade Pass with Distinction is required on at least 22,5 credits.

For students who do not pass the regular exam, a re-examination is arranged within two months after the regular exam, and another, a so-called catch-up examination, within a year. For exams conducted in May and June, the first re-exam may be offered within three months of the regular exam. Those who have passed the exam may not take a new exam for a higher grade. 

The examiner can decide to adapt the form of examination, specified in the syllabus, to accommodate a student's needs. Individual adaptation of the form of examination should be considered according to a student's needs. Any change to the form of examination must be made within the framework of the curriculum's expected study results. Students who need an adapted examination must request it from the institution responsible for the course no later than 10 working days before the examination. It is the examiner who decides on the adapted examination and then notifies the student. 

Other regulations

In granting a university degree, this course may not be combined with any other course that has a similar content. In case of uncertainty, the student should consult the Director of Studies at the Department of Conceptual and Social Studies at Umeå University.  

In the event that the syllabus expires or undergoes major changes, students are guaranteed at least three exams (including regular exams) according to the regulations in the syllabus on which the student was originally registered for a period of a maximum of two years from the previous syllabus expires or the course has been discontinued.