Why study this course?
The Conversion in Philosophy Graduate Diploma is a one-year taught programme aimed at students who are interested in undertaking research in philosophy but have studied little or no philosophy at undergraduate level. Satisfactory performance on the Diploma may lead to entry to the MLitt Philosophy programme.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and there are a limited number of places available.
Highlights
- The Stirling and St Andrews Graduate Programme was ranked the third-best Philosophy programme in the UK in the latest Philosophical Gourmet Report.
- Students can choose from a number of optional modules in philosophy.
- There is also an optional (not for credit) module on Basic Logic for those who wish to brush up on their logic.
Teaching
Delivered through lectures combined with tutorials, discussions and independent study.
Assessment
A mix of coursework, exams, and in some cases, in-class presentations.
Modules
Students take at least one of the two compulsory modules and also take at least one senior Honours (4000-level) Philosophy module. You can find the full list of 4000-level Philosophy modules in the module catalogue.
Students on the Diploma may choose to take their remaining credits from Philosophy modules offered at any undergraduate level.
There is also an optional weekly seminar, Basic Logic, held throughout the year for those who wish to gain an understanding of logic. This is a non-credit course for postgraduate students.
For more details, including weekly contact hours, teaching methods and assessment, please see the module catalogue. The modules are examples from previous academic years and may be subject to change before you start your course.
What it will lead to
Careers
Satisfactory performance on the Diploma leads to entry to the Philosophy MLitt programme.
Many previous Conversion Diploma students have gone on to further study in philosophy at PhD level – either at St Andrews and Stirling or on another equally prestigious PhD programme.
Why St Andrews?
Conversion Diploma students take upper-level undergraduate modules but remain members of the large and vibrant postgraduate community at the universities of St Andrews and Stirling.
You are invited to all postgraduate events, such as the various postgraduate reading parties, and are strongly encouraged to get fully involved with the many and various seminars, workshops, talks, and reading groups.
The Diploma is enhanced by a busy programme of conferences, workshops and visiting speakers from universities in the UK and abroad. This includes:
- the Centre for Ethics, Philosophy and Public Affairs organises seminars and discussion groups
- St Andrews Philosophy Club's meetings for visiting speakers
- Department of Philosophy at Stirling also organises meetings for visiting speakers
- the Arché research group hosts seminars and discussion groups
- the student Philosophy Society (PhilSoc) supports a programme of talks and events
- a weekly seminar for St Andrews research students
- an annual reading party for postgraduate students
This is accompanied by a wide range of student-led reading groups and informal seminars.
Alumni
When you graduate you become a member of the University's worldwide alumni community. Benefit from access to alumni clubs, the Saint Connect networking and mentoring platform, and careers support.
Ask a student
If you are interested in learning what it's like to be a student at St Andrews you can speak to one of our student ambassadors. They'll let you know about their top tips, best study spots, favourite traditions and more.
Entry requirements
- A 2:1 undergraduate Honours degree (or equivalent) in any subject. Applicants who have not met the required entry standards may still apply but will be required to submit a writing sample in support of their application.
- If you studied your first degree outside the UK, see the international entry requirements.
- English language proficiency.
The qualifications listed are indicative minimum requirements for entry. Some academic Schools will ask applicants to achieve significantly higher marks than the minimum. Obtaining the listed entry requirements will not guarantee you a place, as the University considers all aspects of every application including, where applicable, the writing sample, personal statement, and supporting documents.
Application requirements
- CV
- personal statement (500 words)
- two original signed academic references
- academic transcripts and degree certificates
- sample of your own, single-authored academic written work (2,000 words).
For more guidance, see supporting documents and references for postgraduate taught programmes.
English language proficiency
If English is not your first language, you may need to provide an English language test score to evidence your English language ability. See approved English language tests and scores for this course.
Fees and funding
- UK: £12,030
- Rest of the world: £25,900
Before we can begin processing your application, a payment of an application fee of £50 is required. In some instances, you may be eligible for an application fee waiver. Details of this, along with information on our tuition fees, can be found on the postgraduate fees and funding page.
Scholarships and funding
We are committed to supporting you through your studies, regardless of your financial circumstances. You may be eligible for scholarships, discounts or other support:
Contact us
Start your journey
Legal notices
Admission to the University of St Andrews is governed by our Admissions policy
Information about all programmes from previous years of entry can be found in the course archive.
Curriculum development
As a research intensive institution, the University ensures that its teaching references the research interests of its staff, which may change from time to time. As a result, programmes are regularly reviewed with the aim of enhancing students' learning experience. Our approach to course revision is described online.
Tuition fees
The University will clarify compulsory fees and charges it requires any student to pay at the time of offer. The offer will also clarify conditions for any variation of fees. The University’s approach to fee setting is described online.
Page last updated: 17 March 2025
