Major overview
Study philosophy and ethics and learn to analyse complex ideas and real-world issues
3 reasons to study philosophy at Murdoch University
- Apply philosophy to real-world issues with our unique focus on contemporary challenges, exploring topics such as ethics, justice, politics and the relationship between power and knowledge.
- Tailor your degree with a wide range of majors, giving you flexibility to explore your interests and expand your career options.
- Study at a university rated five stars for student support at both undergraduate and postgraduate level (Good Universities Guide 2026).
What you’ll learn
- Develop critical thinking and logical reasoning skills to analyse complex ideas.
- Examine key philosophical concepts such as ethics, knowledge and truth.
- Construct clear, persuasive arguments supported by evidence and reasoning.
- Evaluate different perspectives and challenge assumptions across a range of issues.
- Apply philosophical thinking to real-world questions in society, politics and everyday life.
- Communicate complex ideas clearly in written and verbal forms.
Having completed three semesters and my honours research in Indonesia, I was able to get a much better idea of development on the ground. I found that when I graduated, I had a more realistic idea of what to expect in the workplace.
Karis Erceg, Bachelor of Arts
Your future career using philosophy
- Policy or advisory roles
- Researcher or analyst
- Communications specialist
- Public sector professional
- Journalist or writer
- Further study in law or related fields
Start dates
| Starting period | Location | Face to Face | Online | Mixed mode |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 1, 2026 | Murdoch | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Semester 2, 2026 | Murdoch | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Semester 1, 2027 | Murdoch | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Semester 2, 2027 | Murdoch | Yes | Yes | Yes |
View the dates for our teaching periods or find out more about attendance modes.
Major Structure
Visit the Course Handbook - Get detailed information on units, prerequisites, and pathways.
To help plan the structure of your course, search for our suggested course plans.
| Unit code | Unit name | Credit points |
|---|
How to Apply
Majors are part of a degree and can't be applied on their own. Apply for a related degree first, then choose your major once enrolled.
Study a Bachelor of Arts at Murdoch University and choose from a wide range of flexible majors to tailor your degree. Apply today.
Study a Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Arts at Murdoch University. Add an arts major to your legal studies and build skills for a diverse career. Apply now.