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Graduate (Taught)
Application code:V5UG
Department of Philosophy, Logic and Scientific Method

MSc Philosophy of Science

Explore general questions about the nature of science as well as specific foundational issues related to the individual sciences in this rigorous programme.
Discover the MSc Philosophy of Science at LSE

Overview

Introduction

With a deep and rigorous programme of coursework and research in the Department of Philosophy, Logic and Scientific Method, the MSc Philosophy of Science explores both general questions about the nature of science and specific foundational issues related to the individual sciences.

The degree consists of two kinds of courses. The first are courses in general philosophy of science which cover topics like the nature of scientific explanation, the character of laws of nature, the construction of scientific models, the role of experiments in confirming hypotheses, the use probabilities in scientific reasoning, and function of scientific evidence in policy making. The second are courses that cover foundational problems which arise in connection with the special sciences. Here students can choose from a wide range of courses on topics including the philosophy of physics, artificial intelligence, cognitive science, economics, law, and the study of gender and race.

The programme embodies the LSE’s distinctive approach to philosophy in which philosophical analysis is continuous with scientific practice. The department delivers research-led teaching, meaning that all courses are taught by faculty whose research is in the subject area of the courses they teach. The programme caters for everybody who wishes to embark on this journey. It's designed to be accessible and stimulating for two main audiences: those who have studied science as undergraduates and would now like to study the philosophical foundations and methodology of science in depth, and those who have studied philosophy and would now like to delve deeper into the philosophy of science.

Founded in 1946 by the eminent philosopher of science Sir Karl Popper, LSE’s Department of Philosophy, Logic and Scientific Method is the ideal place to explore conceptual, methodological and foundational issues in the sciences. Along with the closely related Centre for Philosophy of Natural and Social Science (CPNSS), it enjoys an international reputation for its cutting-edge research, bustling seminar series, innovative workshops and conferences, and distinguished faculty and visitors. All events organised by the department and the centre are open to students in the programme, who will have opportunity to participate in pioneering research events and hear about new ideas from those who develop them.

Students who graduate from this programme have a wide range of options available to them. The programme provides an ideal springboard for a PhD and an academic career. But the programme also equips students with the skills to succeed in a broad range of other careers. Graduates from this programme have got into careers in the tech sector, consultancy, banking, journalism, government agencies, insurance, the construction industry; some work in think tanks of NGOs; and some have even become entrepreneurs and run their own start-up.

Entry requirements

Upper second class honours (2:1) degree or equivalent in any discipline. You should also demonstrate a considered interest in the area covered by the MSc.

Please select your country from the dropdown list below to find out the entry requirements that apply to you.

Overseas

English language requirements

The English language requirement for this programme is Higher. Read more about our English language requirements.

Competition for places at LSE is strong. So, even if you meet the minimum entry requirements, this does not guarantee you an offer of a place.

However, please don’t feel deterred from applying – we want to hear from all suitably qualified students. Think carefully about how you can put together the strongest possible application to help you stand out from other students.

Programme content

Year 1

Students on the programme write a MSc dissertation of 10,000 words (full unit), take assessed courses to the value of three units, and attend the non-assessed Dissertation Seminar.

The MSc dissertation is an independent research project on an approved topic of your own choice, which is developed under the supervision of a member of the department. To help students develop their dissertations, they attend the Dissertation Seminar. The seminar introduces students to research strategies, explains the requirements against which dissertations are assessed, and gives students the opportunity to present their own projects and discuss them with their peers.

Why study with us

Read testimonials from students who have completed our MSc programmes. Find out about their experience of the programme, what they found most valuable and how it has helped to develop their career to date.

Meet the department

Founded by Sir Karl Popper in 1946, the Department of Philosophy, Logic and Scientific Method is consistently ranked among the top places in the world to study philosophy.

Our research and teaching embody LSE’s long tradition of analytic, interdisciplinary and socially engaged philosophy.

We have particular strengths in:

  • the philosophy of natural and social sciences
  • logic
  • moral and political philosophy
  • epistemology
  • decision and game theory
  • social choice.

Some of the world’s leading thinkers and social reformers have taught or studied at LSE – including Beatrice Webb, Bertrand Russell and, of course, Karl Popper. Today, we offer a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, attracting high-calibre students from across the globe.

Located in the heart of London, LSE provides one of the most exciting places in the world to study for your philosophy degree. We were ranked second in the UK in the Good University Guide 2024 and third in the QS World University Rankings 2023.

Our research is internationally renowned. We were ranked joint third overall in the UK for the quality and impact of our research in the most recent Research Excellence Framework (2021).

LSE has some of the best outcomes for philosophy graduates in the UK. Our graduates find rewarding and interesting careers in government, the public sector, education, teaching, NGOs and charities, and research.

Learn more about our undergraduate, MSc and PhD programmes and research.

Your application

Overview

We welcome applications from all suitably qualified prospective students. At LSE, we want to recruit students with the best academic merit, potential and motivation, irrespective of background.

We carefully consider each application and take into account all the information included on your application form, such as your:

  • academic achievement (including predicted and achieved grades)
  • statement of academic purpose
  • two academic references
  • CV.

See further information on supporting documents.

You may need to provide evidence of your English language proficiency. See our English language requirements.

79
Applications
15
Intake
5:1
2023 Ratio

Fees and funding

The table of fees shows the latest tuition fees for all programmes.

You're charged a fee for your programme. At LSE, your tuition fee covers registration and examination fees payable to the School, lectures, classes and individual supervision, lectures given at other colleges under intercollegiate arrangements and, under current arrangements, membership of the Students' Union. It doesn't cover living costs or travel or fieldwork.

Home

£18,300

Home student fee (2025/26)

For this programme, the tuition fee is different for home and overseas students depending on their fee status.

Learning and assessment

How you learn

Graduate destinations

Overview

Many leading organisations give careers presentations at the School during the year, and LSE Careers has a wide range of resources available to assist students in their job search. Find out more about the support available to students through LSE Careers.

Further information on graduate destinations for this programme

Top 5 sectors our students work in:

Government, Public Sector and Policy
International Organisations
Advertising, Marketing, PR, Media, Entertainment, Publishing and Journalism
Other Professional, Scientific and Technical Activities
Information, Digital Technology and Data
This data is drawn from the 2021/22 Graduate Outcomes Survey, run by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA). Median salaries are calculated for respondents who are paid in UK pounds sterling and in full-time employment.

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