Philosophy
Philosophy is the study of problems which are ultimate and very general, and which are concerned with the nature of knowledge, reality, human purpose and morality. In universities, it is studied in a manner which lays considerable emphasis on precise and careful argument. Although undergraduates in Cambridge read a wide range of philosophical authors the main aim of the course is not to impart information about which author said what: rather, the aim is that the student should acquire the kind of skill in reasoning which will enable them to solve problems of a philosophical character and to think intelligently about abstract questions generally.
Overview
Students admitted per year: 2-3
Typical offer:
A Level: A*AA
IB Diploma: 41 points, with 776 at Higher Level
Subject requirements: n/a
Useful subjects: logical disciplines such as Mathematics, Sciences and Languages
Admissions Assessment: n/a
Written work: n/a
Why choose Newnham for Philosophy?
Newnham has a lively community of philosophers and people with an active interest in philosophy and allied disciplines. The college is conveniently situated just across the road from the Philosophy Faculty. Our well-stocked Library makes for a great space to work.
Newnham has a long tradition of valuing teaching as an integral part of College life. Its current Fellows continue to uphold the ideals of their forebears in taking teaching seriously and seeking the most effective teaching methods for an individual’s style of learning. Newnham was one of the pioneers of the supervision mode of teaching, still the mainstay of any humanities degree, and an important element of the Director of Studies’ job is securing the best supervisors for students.
Academic financial support
Newnham is one of the most generous Colleges when it comes to student support. As well as being able to access support for maintenance, opportunity and sports funding, all Newnham undergraduate students can apply for our book grants and research expenses funds each term for essential purchases and expenditure relating to their studies. A proportion of expenditure on books can be reimbursed against receipts (up to a limit of £200 each year), with research expenses assessed on a case-by-case basis. Funds for essential equipment purchases are also available, for example for stethoscopes for medics. We are also fortunate to have very generous funding available for summer research and/or travel. None of these grants are means-tested, so all students can benefit. Students achieving first-class results for their end of year exams will in addition receive at least £400 as a prize or scholarship.
