Philosophy University of Otago

Overview

The Philosophy programme at the University of Otago provides students with a comprehensive toolkit to engage with the most significant and difficult questions of human existence. By studying this discipline, students learn to construct and dissect complex arguments while training in clear, effective, and logical reasoning.

This course focuses on the quality of reasons behind beliefs rather than the beliefs themselves. It develops a unique blend of analytical and literary skills that are highly valued by employers across various sectors. Students are encouraged to build a well-grounded picture of the world through rigorous intellectual inquiry.

Why Philosophy at University of Otago?

The University of Otago maintains an outstanding international reputation for research excellence in fields such as metaphysics, epistemology, and ethical theory. The department is known for its friendly and open atmosphere, fostering genuine interaction between staff, students, and visiting global scholars.

Students benefit from a steady stream of international visitors and a weekly seminar programme that offers unique engagement with leading contemporary philosophers. Beyond the classroom, the Philosophy Club provides a vibrant community for undergraduate students to participate in monthly debates and social events.

The teaching facilities and distinctive instructional features ensure a supportive learning environment. From informal, interactive lectures to small, collaborative tutorials led by graduate students, the programme is designed to build a strong foundation in the study of human thought and logic.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: NZD 37380 per year
• National fee: NZD 6938 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured to move from foundational concepts to independent research. Modules may include:

100-level

• Mind and Reality
• Ethical Issues
• Critical Thinking
• Radical Philosophy

200-level

• Revolutionary Philosophy
• Formal Logic
• Metaphysical Questions
• Philosophy of Science
• Morality and Politics: Hobbes to Hume
• Ethics
• Reason, Belief and the Sacred
• Early Modern Philosophy A: Descartes, Spinoza, Leibniz
• Early Modern Philosophy B: Locke, Berkeley, Hume
• Philosophy of Mind and Language
• Are there moral facts?
• Environmental Philosophy
• Philosophy of Well-being
• Epistemology: Theory of Knowledge

300-level

• Revolutionary Philosophy (Advanced)
• Advanced Formal Logic
• Are There Moral Facts?
• Metaphysical Questions
• Philosophy of Science (Advanced)
• Morals and Politics: Hobbes to Hume (Advanced)
• Ethics (Advanced)
• Reason, Belief and the Sacred
• Early Modern Philosophy A: Descartes, Spinoza, Leibniz
• Early Modern Philosophy B: Locke, Berkeley, Hume
• Philosophy of Mind and Language
• Why Be Moral?
• Philosophy of Well-being (Advanced)
• Epistemology: Theory of Knowledge (Advanced)

Careers with Philosophy

Graduates from the University of Otago find success in a diverse range of professional fields. The analytical skills gained are applicable to roles in law, journalism, diplomacy, and computing. Many alumni also pursue careers in software design, politics, and teaching.

The programme prepares students for high-level roles in both the public and private sectors. Recent graduates have secured positions in international cities such as London, Vienna, and Singapore, as well as throughout New Zealand and Australia in industries like e-commerce and social services.