About this course
On this joint BA Philosophy and Music degree, you’ll engage with some of the biggest questions in Western philosophy while developing advanced skills in musical performance, composition and analysis. You’ll gain an in-depth understanding of the fundamentals of both subjects, and have the freedom to pursue your own interests through optional modules covering topics as varied as existentialism, studio techniques and 19th century Italian opera. You'll also get to spend a placement year abroad.
This degree will give you an excellent education in philosophy and music. In your degree you can:
-
develop an understanding of philosophical questions such as ethics, reason and responsibility
-
apply philosophical thought to language, morality, sex and other important aspects of life
-
explore a range of music from European music in the Renaissance and Baroque periods right through the the music of the 20th century and global hip hop
-
understand the principles of Western tonal music, including harmony and counterpoint
-
learn how to write and present dissertations and research
You’ll be taught in small groups in a relaxed and friendly environment, and benefit from the expertise of both visiting performers and academic staff whose researches feed directly into the course content.
You can also improve your musical skills and performance through:
-
workshops with professional performers
-
submitting original compositions
-
managing the administration of public music events
You can take modules from other disciplines such as anthropology or psychology, studying a language, or choosing from a range of cross-disciplinary modules.
Course location
This course is based at Avenue.
Awarding body
This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.
Download the Course Description Document
The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.
Changes due to COVID-19
Although the COVID-19 situation is improving, any future restrictions could mean we might have to change the way parts of our teaching and learning take place in 2021 to 2022. We're working hard to plan for a number of possible scenarios. This means that some of the information on this course page may be subject to change.
Find out more on our COVID advice page.
Entry requirements
For Academic year 202122
A-levels
ABB including Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
A-levels additional information
Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. Our preferred subjects are Philosophy, History, English, Religious Studies, Classical Civilisation, Sociology, Government and Politics.
*Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology.
We do not accept Music Technology in lieu of a Music Level 3 qualification (A level, BTEC etc). We can accept a pass in Grade 6 Music Theory where Music is not studied as a Level 3 qualification.
We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
A-levels with Extended Project Qualification
If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A level offer:
BBB including Music, and grade A in the EPQ, and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
A-levels contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all applicants with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise an applicant's potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience.
Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme, as follows:
BBB including Music, and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with 32 points overall with 16 points at Higher Level, including 5 at Higher Level in Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information
Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. Our preferred subjects are Philosophy, History, English, Religious Studies, Classical Civilisation, Sociology, Government and Politics.*Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology.We do not accept Music Technology in lieu of a Music Level 3 qualification (A level, BTEC etc). We can accept a pass in Grade 6 Music Theory where Music is not studied as a Level 3 qualification.We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
International Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement
Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements.
Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
BTEC
BTEC additional information
Our preferred subjects are Philosophy, History, English, Religious Studies, Classical Civilisation, Sociology, Government and Politics.
*Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology.
We do not accept Music Technology in lieu of a Music Level 3 qualification (A level, BTEC etc). We can accept a pass in Grade 6 Music Theory where Music is not studied as a Level 3 qualification.
We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
Access to HE Diploma
60 credits with a minimum of 45 credits at Level 3, of which 30 must be at Distinction and 15 credits at Merit, to include 6 Distinctions in Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
Access to HE additional information
Our preferred subjects are Philosophy, History, English, Religious Studies, Classical Civilisation, Sociology, Government and Politics.
*Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology.
We do not accept Music Technology in lieu of a Music Level 3 qualification (A level, BTEC etc). We can accept a pass in Grade 6 Music Theory where Music is not studied as a Level 3 qualification.
We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
Irish Leaving Certificate
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2016)
Irish certificate additional information
Our preferred subjects are Philosophy, History, English, Religious Studies, Classical Civilisation, Sociology, Government and Politics.
*Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology.
We do not accept Music Technology in lieu of a Music Level 3 qualification (A level, BTEC etc). We can accept a pass in Grade 6 Music Theory where Music is not studied as a Level 3 qualification.
We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
Scottish Qualification
Offers will be based on exams being taken at the end of S6. Subjects taken and qualifications achieved in S5 will be reviewed. Careful consideration will be given to an individual’s academic achievement, taking in to account the context and circumstances of their pre-university education.
Please see the University of Southampton’s Curriculum for Excellence Scotland Statement (PDF) for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
Cambridge Pre-U
D3 M2 M2 in three principal subjects including Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
Cambridge Pre-U additional information
Our preferred subjects are Philosophy, History, English, Religious Studies, Classical Civilisation, Sociology, Government and Politics.
*Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology.
We do not accept Music Technology in lieu of a Music Level 3 qualification (A level, BTEC etc). We can accept a pass in Grade 6 Music Theory where Music is not studied as a Level 3 qualification.
We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
Welsh Baccalaureate
ABB from 3 A levels including Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
or
AB from two A levels including Music and B from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
Welsh Baccalaureate additional information
Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. Our preferred subjects are Philosophy, History, English, Religious Studies, Classical Civilisation, Sociology, Government and Politics.
*Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology.
We do not accept Music Technology in lieu of a Music Level 3 qualification (A level, BTEC etc). We can accept a pass in Grade 6 Music Theory where Music is not studied as a Level 3 qualification.
We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
Welsh Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
European Baccalaureate
77% overall including grade 8 in Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
Other requirements
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C) and mathematics (minimum grade 4/C)
Find the equivalent international qualifications for our entry requirements.
English language requirements
If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:
IELTS score requirements
- overall score
- 6.5
- reading
- 6.0
- writing
- 6.0
- speaking
- 6.0
- listening
- 6.0
We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.
You might meet our criteria in other ways if you do not have the qualifications we need. Find out more about:
-
our Access to Southampton scheme for students living permanently in the UK (including residential summer school, application support and scholarship)
-
skills you might have gained through work or other life experiences (otherwise known as recognition of prior learning)
Find out more about our Admissions Policy.
For Academic year 202223
A-levels
ABB including Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
A-levels additional information
Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. Our preferred subjects are Philosophy, History, English, Religious Studies, Classical Civilisation, Sociology, Government and Politics. *Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology. We do not accept Music Technology as meeting our Music subject requirement. We can accept a pass in Grade 5 Music Theory or Grade 8 Music practical where Music is not studied as an accepted Level 3 qualification. This applies to all BTEC Music courses and similar including UAL and Rockschool. We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
A-levels with Extended Project Qualification
If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A level offer: BBB including Music, and grade A in the EPQ, and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
A-levels contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all applicants with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise an applicant's potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme, as follows: BBB including Music, and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with 32 points overall with 16 points at Higher Level, including 5 at Higher Level in Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information
Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. Our preferred subjects are Philosophy, History, English, Religious Studies, Classical Civilisation, Sociology, Government and Politics. *Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology. We do not accept Music Technology as meeting our Music subject requirement. We can accept a pass in Grade 5 Music Theory or Grade 8 Music practical where Music is not studied as an accepted Level 3 qualification. This applies to all BTEC Music courses and similar including UAL and Rockschool. We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
International Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement
Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements. Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
BTEC
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
BTEC additional information
Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. Our preferred subjects are Philosophy, History, English, Religious Studies, Classical Civilisation, Sociology, Government and Politics. *Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology. We do not accept Music Technology as meeting our Music subject requirement. We can accept a pass in Grade 5 Music Theory or Grade 8 Music practical where Music is not studied as an accepted Level 3 qualification. This applies to all BTEC Music courses and similar including UAL and Rockschool. We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
Access to HE Diploma
60 credits with a minimum of 45 credits at Level 3, of which 30 must be at Distinction and 15 credits at Merit, to include 6 Distinctions in Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
Access to HE additional information
Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. Our preferred subjects are Philosophy, History, English, Religious Studies, Classical Civilisation, Sociology, Government and Politics. *Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology. We do not accept Music Technology as meeting our Music subject requirement. We can accept a pass in Grade 5 Music Theory or Grade 8 Music practical where Music is not studied as an accepted Level 3 qualification. This applies to all BTEC Music courses and similar including UAL and Rockschool. We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
Irish Leaving Certificate
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)
H1 H2 H2 H2 H3 H3 including Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2016)
A2 A2 B1 B1 B2 B2 including Music at B1 and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
Irish certificate additional information
Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. Our preferred subjects are Philosophy, History, English, Religious Studies, Classical Civilisation, Sociology, Government and Politics. *Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology. We do not accept Music Technology as meeting our Music subject requirement. We can accept a pass in Grade 5 Music Theory or Grade 8 Music practical where Music is not studied as an accepted Level 3 qualification. This applies to all BTEC Music courses and similar including UAL and Rockschool. We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
Scottish Qualification
Offers will be based on exams being taken at the end of S6. Subjects taken and qualifications achieved in S5 will be reviewed. Careful consideration will be given to an individual’s academic achievement, taking in to account the context and circumstances of their pre-university education.
Please see the University of Southampton’s Curriculum for Excellence Scotland Statement (PDF) for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
Cambridge Pre-U
D3 M2 M2 in three principal subjects including Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
Cambridge Pre-U additional information
Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. Our preferred subjects are Philosophy, History, English, Religious Studies, Classical Civilisation, Sociology, Government and Politics. *Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology. We do not accept Music Technology as meeting our Music subject requirement. We can accept a pass in Grade 5 Music Theory or Grade 8 Music practical where Music is not studied as an accepted Level 3 qualification. This applies to all BTEC Music courses and similar including UAL and Rockschool. We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
Welsh Baccalaureate
ABB from 3 A levels including Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard* or AB from two A levels including Music and B from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
Welsh Baccalaureate additional information
Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. Our preferred subjects are Philosophy, History, English, Religious Studies, Classical Civilisation, Sociology, Government and Politics. *Equivalence to grade 8 is ascertained via audition. This can be done in person or by sending a video. We welcome students onto our programmes who are not at this level if their interests focus on other areas, such as composition, music technology and/or music history and ethnomusicology. We do not accept Music Technology as meeting our Music subject requirement. We can accept a pass in Grade 5 Music Theory or Grade 8 Music practical where Music is not studied as an accepted Level 3 qualification. This applies to all BTEC Music courses and similar including UAL and Rockschool. We recognise Music practical and theory exams from ABRSM, Trinity, Rockschool and LCM.
Welsh Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
European Baccalaureate
77% overall including grade 8 in Music and Grade 8 Music Practical or demonstrated equivalent standard*
Other requirements
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C) and mathematics (minimum grade 4/C)
Find the equivalent international qualifications for our entry requirements.
English language requirements
If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:
IELTS score requirements
- overall score
- 6.5
- reading
- 6.0
- writing
- 6.0
- speaking
- 6.0
- listening
- 6.0
We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.
You might meet our criteria in other ways if you do not have the qualifications we need. Find out more about:
-
our Access to Southampton scheme for students living permanently in the UK (including residential summer school, application support and scholarship)
-
skills you might have gained through work or other life experiences (otherwise known as recognition of prior learning)
Find out more about our Admissions Policy.
Got a question?
Please contact our enquiries team if you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
Course structure
You’ll have the freedom to shape your degree to suit your interests by choosing modules from a wide range of options, including modules outside philosophy and music.
You don't need to choose your modules when you apply - your academic tutor will help you to customise your course.
You’ll also have the opportunity to broaden your studies, by selecting:
Year 1 overview
Compulsory modules give you a strong foundation in the philosophical concepts of:
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reason and argument
-
freedom and responsibility
-
appearance and reality
The compulsory modules will give you a springboard to choose your own areas of interest through optional modules. By choosing carefully, you’ll achieve a fascinating combination of philosophy and music.
You can learn the fundamentals of analysis, counterpoint and harmony - core principles of Western tonal music. You can go on to choose from an array of options, including 20th century music, Greek philosophy or musical technology.
There are also ample opportunities for individual or group tuition so that you can lift your own performance to a new level, or be exposed to a new discipline such as conducting.
Year 2 overview
Your knowledge is extended in the second part by a further compulsory module in the history of philosophy.
In addition, you'll take seven optional modules in philosophy and music, allowing you to build the course around your developing interests. Topics include moral philosophy, aesthetics, epistemology, philosophy of religion and logic.
Year 3 overview
You’ll consolidate your knowledge and skills by writing a philosophy dissertation or doing research into music. The topic may be musical (historical, analytical, critical) or it may relate music to another art or discipline (for example, music and architecture, acoustics, psychology of music).
You can choose make your own performance part of your research project.
A module on commercial composition allows you to work closely with a course tutor to in one-to-one tutorials to develop a portfolio of original work.
You’ll also select further optional modules. These usually cover topics which academic staff are actively researching, introducing you to the latest thinking. Options include studying the work of Nietzsche or Heidegger or looking at classical Indian or Islamic philosophy.
There are also opportunities to get involved in local performances and to add to your CV by gaining work experience in schools.
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
Changes due to COVID-19
Although the COVID-19 situation is improving, any future restrictions could mean we might have to change the way parts of our teaching and learning take place in 2021 to 2022. We're working hard to plan for a number of possible scenarios. This means that some of the information on this course page may be subject to change.
Find out more on our COVID advice page.
For entry in Academic Year 2021-22
Year 1 modules
You must study the following modules in year 1:
We all make moral judgements every day. Today you might have decided not to push into a queue because it would be unfair. You might think that murder is wrong but that it is still not permissible for the state to take an innocent life in retribution. You ...
Offering a broad overview of European music in the Renaissance and Baroque periods, this module will also allow you to develop your academic writing skills. Lectures introduce styles and genres of the period, including the polyphonic Mass, the sonata, the...
According to rationalists, we can discover important truths about reality through the use of reason alone. The Rationalists of the 17th century, such as Descartes, Malebranche, Spinoza, and Leibniz, helped to found modern philosophy. In their seminal work...
This module introduces music performance skills. You undertake individual tuition in your chosen performance specialism* (8 hours of lessons) along with a variety of workshops exploring topics from across the performance spectrum. With the help of y...
One of the main reasons the study of Philosophy is valued by employers is that it develops an ability that is invaluable in all sorts of contexts: the ability to reason rigorously and correctly. All Philosophy modules aim indirectly to develop this skill,...
You must also choose from the following modules in year 1:
Philosophy has always progressed by being aware of its past, and it has been said that the legacy of the ancient Greek thinkers to Western philosophy is nothing less than Western philosophy itself. The ancients invented our subject, and Plato and Aristotl...
In both public and private life, we face difficult and pressing ethical questions every day. Should we give a proportion of our wealth to those in developing countries? Should we allow doctors to perform abortions or euthanasia and, if so, under what circ...
Composition Fundamentals will introduce you to a range of compositional techniques and principles. We will consider different ways of creating musical ideas and different approaches to structuring, varying and developing musical ideas. In particular, we w...
Reinforcing and developing the skills developed in MUSI1002 Antique Music Roadshow 1: Materials of Music History c.1500-1750, this module aims to introduce you to some of the major musical forms, techniques and styles cultivated between 1750 and 1900. Dur...
Debates between believers and non-believers are often fierce and can appear intractable, while the differences between them leads to social tension, conflict, and even war. Non-believers frequently charge believers with irrationality; in response, believe...
Ensemble performance is a crucial skill in any musician's portfolio, in addition to being one of the most rewarding aspects of musical life. In this module you will prepare a 15-20 minute programme of instrumental, vocal or mixed ensemble music of your...
This module explores the history of key twentieth and twenty-first musical styles and practices including jazz, popular and art musics. Its scope is global, with the aim of "provincialising" European and North American experiences. In addition the module ...
This module allows you to develop your music performance skills to a new level. A combination of individual tuition in your chosen performance specialism* (12 hours of lessons) and a variety of workshop and public performance opportunities provide you ...
States impose many demands upon their citizens through the law and the magistrates and police who enforce it. But are there good reasons why citizens should comply with these demands, or do they act merely out of a fear of punishment? Some states we seem ...
Both individuals and society attach great importance and value to certain works of art, including poems, novels, films, plays, symphonies, and paintings. Most of us spend a considerable amount of our limited time and resources acquiring, creating, experie...
Year 2 modules
You must study the following module in year 2:
The 17th and 18th centuries, a period of great intellectual and social upheaval, saw the rise of Modern Philosophy. In continental Europe, the 'Rationalism' of Descartes, Spinoza and Leibniz argued for the capacity of reason to arrive at knowledge and und...
You must also choose from the following modules in year 2:
This module is based on a selection of recent and innovative scholarly writings on music, which challenge the reader to examine their assumptions about the nature of both scholarship and music as cultural practices. It is taught together with MUSI6022 Adv...
You might watch a stunning film, hear a delightful song, enjoy a beautiful sunset, read a dreadful poem, attend an elegant dance, or see a garish building. Experiences like this can stimulate thoughts and feelings of great depth, and provide pleasure or d...
This module focuses on the detailed 'hands-on' analysis of works of European art music, guided by a selection of classic and contemporary theoretical and analytical writings that challenge assumptions about the inner structure of musical works. Extramusic...
This module explores important historical and contemporary techniques and approaches to composition to give you a range of ways of thinking about creating, varying, transforming and organising musical materials. We will look at examples of compositional i...
This module covers basic gestures used in duple, triple, compound, mixed and asymmetric metres; cueing of players and singers, and introducing expressive gestures for dynamics, phrasing etc.; basic approaches to rehearsal and score-marking technique.
In this module students prepare two programmes, lasting 20 to 25 minutes, of instrumental, vocal, or mixed-ensemble music of their own choice, which is coached regularly by members of staff. Entry to this course, which extends over a year, is subject to ...
Epistemology is dedicated to questions about the nature and structure of knowledge and justified belief. Some central questions in epistemology include: - What is knowledge? Why is it valuable? - To gain knowledge from a reliable source, does one n...
Ethics of Global Poverty examines the duties of affluent people towards those living in poverty around the world. Among the questions we will examine are: What obligations do we have to help strangers in need? What bases might such obligations have? Are s...
This module involves the ethical evaluation of public policies. Note that it is not primarily concerned with how public policies are made and implemented, nor with non-ethical assessment of them, such as how effective they are in achieving their aims. The...
Hip-hop is one of the most ubiquitous, lucrative and popular musics in the world. Although it emerged in the South Bronx (New York City) in the 1970s, the history of hip-hop goes far beyond the USA and includes myriad transnational exchanges. Hip-hop has ...
How will the arts get working again after Covid-19? This is a critically important question for everyone who cares about them, artists and audiences alike. If you’re a student considering a career in the arts you’ll want to know where fresh opportunities ...
Interactive music and sound can be found in diverse forms, from video games and interactive installations through to data driven sonic art and works with audience/performer interventions. Such situations provide composers and sound artists with both exci...
Among philosophers in the modern era, Immanuel Kant is widely acknowledged as the most important, original and influential. His challenging book, Critique of Pure Reason, asks what we can know about the nature of reality at the most fundamental level. Can...
Ever since Aristotle, philosophers have been interested in developing formal systems of logic to refine our ability to distinguish valid from invalid arguments and to further our understanding of the nature of logic and validity. The aim of this module is...
We all make moral judgments and think about moral questions. For instance, you might think that torture is typically wrong but wonder whether it may sometimes be right. Whereas normative ethics tries to answer these questions, metaethics is concerned with...
Metaphysics is the study of what kinds of things there and what they are like in the most general terms. We have both a common sense picture of the world and a scientific picture of the world, and sometimes these two appear to conflict. Part of the job of...
Moral philosophy is concerned with questions of right and wrong, good and bad, virtue and vice. Such questions are familiar: can it be right to lie to someone to avoid hurting their feelings? Is it okay to favour my friends and family, or should I be impa...
This module explores how music therapy uses music very differently to the entertainment industry, introducing you to the unique use of music as a powerful clinical tool in health and education settings. Using clinical music therapy techniques, music can b...
This module allows you to explore basic multi-track recording and production techniques. The module is based in the University’s recording studios and music computing facilities where you will explore a range of techniques and equipment from both theoreti...
This module allows you to continue to develop your music performance skills. A combination of individual tuition (10 1hr lessons) and a variety workshop and public performance opportunities provide you with the chance to study new repertoire, improve yo...
Can there be a proof that God exists? Or might phenomena such as suffering serve to show that an omniscient, omnipotent and omnibenevolent being cannot exist? Such questions are central to the philosophy of religion; attempting to answer them leads us to ...
We build our world on scientific knowledge, in fact we stake our lives on it. Every time we board a train, send an email or take a medical drug we reaffirm our trust in the products of science. But what, if anything, gives science the authority it seems t...
This module offers a practical introduction to organising, arranging for, rehearsing and performing with groups of singers of any level, from beginners to professionals. It is particularly aimed at students who are interested in community music or music e...
This module introduces you to the history of the American Musical and examines some of the issues connected with race, exoticism, gender and national identity as they were articulated in this multimedia entertainment between the late nineteenth century an...
Philosophy of mind explores questions about the nature of the mind and mental states – states such as perceptual experiences, beliefs, desires, and emotions. What is the mind? Is it an immaterial substance? Is it the brain? Is it something like a computer...
In this module you will explore the operas by Benjamin Britten, one of Britain’s most influential composers. Britten’s operas are among the few 20th-century works that hold a central position in today’s operatic canon. They are produced regularly by world...
This module gives students a chance to compose for jazz and jazz influenced ensembles. This module will embrace the rich tradition of jazz writing and its conventions as heard in the works of the great jazz composers, such as Duke Ellington, Herbie Han...
Year 3 modules
You must study the following modules in year 3:
You will be introduced to a series of techniques and processes that can be applied to a wide range of commercial musics in the first semester; in the second semester you will work closely with course tutors in one-to-one tutorials to develop a portfolio o...
With a mixture of lectures and individual supervision, Composition Portfolio is the final stage of the undergraduate pathway in concert-music based composition. Building upon the skills gained in first and second year creative music based modules, the lec...
Students taking this module undertake research on a philosophical topic of their choice (subject to approval by the Department), and write a dissertation of 8,000 words on that topic.
This module is based on a topic chosen by the student, completed under the supervision of a member of staff and culminating in a detailed dissertation. The topic may be musical (historical, analytical, critical) or it may relate music to another art or di...
You must also choose from the following modules in year 3:
This module is based on a selection of recent and innovative scholarly writings on music, which challenge the reader to examine their assumptions about the nature of both scholarship and music as cultural practices. It is taught together with MUSI6022 Adv...
This module focuses on the detailed 'hands-on' analysis of works of European art music, guided by a selection of classic and contemporary theoretical and analytical writings that challenge assumptions about the inner structure of musical works. Extramusic...
Philosophy flourished in classical India for well over a millennium, with figures in this tradition producing works that are on a par with those of figures in ancient Greece and late antique and medieval Europe. In fact, figures in classical India contri...
This module explores important historical and contemporary techniques and approaches to composition to give you a range of ways of thinking about creating, varying, transforming and organising musical materials. We will look at examples of compositional i...
This module covers basic gestures used in duple, triple, compound, mixed and asymmetric metres; cueing of players and singers, and introducing expressive gestures for dynamics, phrasing etc.; basic approaches to rehearsal and score-marking technique.
The aim of this module is to familiarise you with several important, but competing, theories of justice. Such theories give guidance on important questions of distributive justice (who ought to get what, when and why?), and provide, to varying degrees, gr...
In this module students prepare two programmes, lasting 20 to 25 minutes, of instrumental, vocal, or mixed-ensemble music of their own choice, which is coached regularly by members of staff. Entry to this course, which extends over a year, is subject to a...
We are all familiar with fictions from Romeo and Juliet to Jaws, from The Hobbit to Harry Potter. Despite this familiarity, the nature of fiction and of our engagement with it appears puzzling. On the one hand, fictional characters do not exist. On the ot...
Hip-hop is one of the most ubiquitous, lucrative and popular musics in the world. Although it emerged in the South Bronx (New York City) in the 1970s, the history of hip-hop goes far beyond the USA and includes myriad transnational exchanges. Hip-hop has ...
It seems clear that people’s lives can go well or badly. But what is it for one’s life to go well? Does it consist in feeling good more often than feeling bad? Or getting most of what you want? Or does it consist in achievement, friendship, knowledge and ...
How will the arts get working again after Covid-19? This is a critically important question for everyone who cares about them, artists and audiences alike. If you’re a student considering a career in the arts you’ll want to know where fresh opportunities ...
Interactive music and sound can be found in diverse forms, from video games and interactive installations through to data driven sonic art and works with audience/performer interventions. Such situations provide composers and sound artists with both exci...
This module explores how music therapy uses music very differently to the entertainment industry, introducing you to the unique use of music as a powerful clinical tool in health and education settings. Using clinical music therapy techniques, music can b...
The aim of this module is to look beneath the surface - challenging assumptions made about music being therapeutic and exploring how to prove music is effective as therapy. Drawing on the knowledge gleaned in the second year module, the module aims to dev...
This module allows you to explore basic multi-track recording and production techniques. The module is based in the University’s recording studios and music computing facilities where you will explore a range of techniques and equipment from both theoreti...
Reading the works of Friedrich Nietzsche is both exciting and troubling. He sets out to undermine the basis of many of our beliefs about values. Christianity, he believed, has had a powerfully negative effect on the potential of human beings. His method o...
This module allows you to expand your music performance skills to a high standard. A combination of individual tuition (10 1hr lessons) and a variety workshop and public performance opportunities provide you with the chance to study new repertoire, impr...
The science of psychology and the project of artificial intelligence raise profound philosophical issues as they attempt to understand, simulate and even go beyond human thought. Some concern the kind of explanation that these ventures seek: If we underst...
In this module you will explore some major philosophical questions related to sex. We will begin by considering the nature of sex, discussing a range of theories of sex including the traditional view of sex as essentially connected to reproduction and “pl...
Socrates wants to cross a river and comes to a bridge guarded by Plato, who says: “Socrates, if you say something true, I will permit you to cross. But if you speak falsely, I shall throw you into the water.” Socrates answers: “You will throw me into the ...
The aims of this module are to explore some central issues about the relationship between action, reason, and ethics. Questions we shall consider may include: What is an action? What is it to act intentionally? What are reasons for action? Do all, some, o...
We seem to know our own minds - our beliefs, desires, intentions, thoughts, feelings and sensations - in a distinctively secure and immediate way, without having to rely on observation of our own behaviour. Such self-knowledge seems different from knowled...
This module offers a practical introduction to organising, arranging for, rehearsing and performing with groups of singers of any level, from beginners to professionals. It is particularly aimed at students who are interested in community music or music e...
This module introduces you to the history of the American Musical and examines some of the issues connected with race, exoticism, gender and national identity as they were articulated in this multimedia entertainment between the late nineteenth century an...
The climate crisis is one of the most urgent issues facing humanity. Climate change is having an increasing impact on individual lives, and on social and political relations and institutions. This module examines the moral and political philosophical issu...
In this module you will explore the operas by Benjamin Britten, one of Britain’s most influential composers. Britten’s operas are among the few 20th-century works that hold a central position in today’s operatic canon. They are produced regularly by world...
This module gives students a chance to compose for jazz and jazz influenced ensembles. This module will embrace the rich tradition of jazz writing and its conventions as heard in the works of the great jazz composers, such as Duke Ellington, Herbie Han...
It is commonplace to hear people say such things as, ‘You shouldn’t believe that God exists—look at all the evil in the world’, or ‘You ought to believe that there is life on other planets—it’s entirely probable’, and the like. These judgements concerning...
Wittgenstein is the most important philosopher of the twentieth century. He offers a sustained critique of many of the most common assumptions underlying much contemporary philosophy of mind and language. He explores, among other things, the questions of ...
Learning and assessment
The learning activities for this course include the following:
- lectures
- classes and tutorials
- coursework
- individual and group projects
- independent learning (studying on your own)
Course time
How you'll spend your course time:
Year 1
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 1:
How we'll assess you
- compositions
- composition portfolios
- debates
- developing websites
- dissertations
- essays
- individual and group projects
- oral presentations
- written exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 1:
Year 2
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 2:
How we'll assess you
- compositions
- composition portfolios
- debates
- developing websites
- dissertations
- essays
- individual and group projects
- oral presentations
- written exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 2:
Year 3
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 3:
How we'll assess you
- compositions
- composition portfolios
- debates
- developing websites
- dissertations
- essays
- individual and group projects
- oral presentations
- written exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 3:
Academic support
You’ll be supported by a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor.
Course leader
Jonathan Way is the course leader.
Careers
You’ll graduate with a wide range of transferable skills such as research, critical thinking, analysis and team working. Career skills are embedded at every stage of our courses and certain modules offer specific teaching in reasoning and communication.
Our philosophy graduates have secured roles as diverse as:
-
project manager
-
teacher
-
human resources (HR) coordinator
-
investment analyst
-
digital marketing coordinator
-
tax consultant
-
data analyst
Our philosophy degrees are also a good foundation for further study at Masters or PhD level.
Careers services at Southampton
We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2019). Our Careers and Employability Service will support you throughout your time as a student and for up to 5 years after graduation. This support includes:
work experience schemes
CV and interview skills and workshops
networking events
careers fairs attended by top employers
a wealth of volunteering opportunities
study abroad and summer school opportunities
We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture and our dedicated start-up supporter, Futureworlds, is open to every student.
Work in industry
You can choose to spend a year in employment during this course.
Fees, costs and funding
Tuition fees
Fees for a year's study:
- UK students pay £9,250.
- EU and international students pay £18,520.
What your fees pay for
Your tuition fees pay for the full cost of tuition and all examinations.
Find out how to:
Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. Explore:
Bursaries, scholarships and other funding
If you're a UK or EU student and your household income is under £25,000 a year, you may be able to get a University of Southampton bursary to help with your living costs. Find out about bursaries and other funding we offer at Southampton.
If you're a care leaver or estranged from your parents, you may be able to get a specific bursary.
Get in touch for advice about student money matters.
Scholarships and grants
You may be able to get a scholarship or grant that's linked to your chosen subject area.
We award scholarships and grants for travel, academic excellence, or to students from underrepresented backgrounds.
Support during your course
The Student Services Centre offers support and advice on money to students. You may be able to access our Student Support fund and other sources of financial support during your course.
Funding for EU and international students
Find out about funding you could get as an international student.
How to apply
When you apply use:
- UCAS course code: VW53
- UCAS institution code: S27
What happens after you apply?
We will assess your application on the strength of your:
- predicted grades
- academic achievements
- personal statement
- academic reference
You'll need to show you're proficient to grade 8 or equivalent, either by auditioning or sending a video.
Some candidates will be invited to a selection day, which will include an interview. If the admissions tutor decides to invite you to a selection day you'll receive an email. This will include information on how to prepare and what to expect during the session.
We aim to respond to you within 2 to 6 weeks with a decision about your application.
Equality and diversity
We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.
Got a question?
Please contact our enquiries team if you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
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