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Philosophy courses

Expand your critical thinking and contemplate profound questions

Help me choose a course

Introduction to Philosophy

If you’re curious about the big questions in life, you’re already thinking like a philosopher.

A philosophy degree can provide the framework your mind craves to become deeply versed in life.

When you study an online philosophy course through Open Universities Australia, not only will you broaden your thinking, you’ll have an opportunity to explore fundamental ideas about human existence, knowledge, ethics, and reason with likeminded individuals from across the country.

Compare your study options below and reach out to our student advisors if you need help choosing the right course for you.

Explore philosophy courses
Open Universities Australia student Shiree at work standing in front of a colourful notice board.
Shiree studied humanities and social studies with Griffith University, through Open Universities Australia

Discover philosophy courses

Online philosophy subjects and short courses

University of Tasmania
Study method
100% online
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Start dates
Starts 24 Feb 2025
La Trobe University

Knowledge, Individuals and Society

UndergraduateLTU-PHI2KIS

Study method
100% online
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Start dates
Starts 03 Mar 2025
La Trobe University

Politics, Philosophy and Economics

UndergraduateLTU-POL1PPE

Study method
100% online
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Start dates
Starts 03 Mar 2025
La Trobe University

Virtual Reality as Philosophy

UndergraduateLTU-PHI3VRP

Study method
100% online
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Start dates
Starts 28 Jul 2025
View all subjects

Online philosophy degrees

Macquarie University

Bachelor of Arts

UndergraduateMAQ-ART-DEG

An arts degree that no one else has

Study method
100% online
Duration
3 years full time or part time equivalent
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.

Available majors

  • Ancient History
  • Creative Writing
  • English
  • Critical Indigenous Studies
  • International Relations
  • Modern History
  • Philosophy
  • Politics
  • Sociology
La Trobe University

Make the world a healthier place. Your way.

Study method
100% online
Duration
4 years full time or part time equivalent
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.

Available majors

  • Anthropology
  • Archaeological and Heritage Studies
  • Asian Studies
  • Creative and Professional Writing
  • Crime, Justice and Legal Studies
  • Digital Media
  • English
  • Ethics and Social Justice
  • Hindi Studies Beginners
  • History
  • Human Geography
  • International Studies
  • Linguistics
  • Philosophy
  • Politics
  • Sociology
  • Sustainabilty and Development
  • Visual Cultures
  • Digital Health
  • Environmental Health
  • Health Promotion
  • Health, Wellbeing and Performance
  • Psychological Science
  • Public Health
  • Rehabillitation Counselling
Charles Sturt University

Bachelor of Arts

UndergraduateCSU-ART-DEG

Prepare for life and work with the ultimate skill set

Study method
Online & on-campus
Duration
3 years full time or part time equivalent
University of Notre Dame Australia

Deepen your understanding of the Catholic intellectual tradition

Study method
100% online
Duration
6 months full time or part time equivalent
View all bachelor degrees

Discover 54 ways to study philosophy with leading Australian universities.

Explore philosophy courses

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Philosophy study FAQs

What is philosophy?

Philosophy investigates life’s biggest questions, delving into fundamental ideas about existence, knowledge, values, reason, the mind, and language. Philosophers use critical thinking and careful analysis as a way to understand the world and our place within it.

What will I learn in a philosophy course?

Depending on your course, you’ll explore areas such as:

  • Ethical reasoning and moral philosophy
  • History and the application of philosophical thought
  • Logical reasoning and discussion
  • Philosophical issues in contemporary society
  • Philosophical perspectives on science and psychology

After graduating, you’ll have refined skills in communication, problem-solving, critical thinking and reasoning. You’ll also be skilled in methods of research and analysis, and have a deep understanding of ethical principles.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Browse related courses in religion, literature, politics or history.

Why should I study philosophy?

Studying philosophy will give you invaluable skills for the workplace and beyond.

You’ll learn how to think critically about life, which will give you a deeper appreciation for questioning and understanding the "why" behind things. You’ll understand how to construct logical arguments and grasp ethical principles, which will help you to sway decision makers and navigate moral dilemmas in your career.

These abilities will also enrich your personal life. Your new way of thinking will help you have a fresh perspective on everyday issues, which could improve your relationships.

Who should study an online philosophy course?

If you’ve got a curious mind and a desire to understand deeper truths about the world, you’ll likely be a good fit for an online philosophy course.

Whether you're just beginning your career, eager to improve your professional skills, or searching for intellectual growth, a short course or degree in philosophy can help you build important skills that are useful at any stage of life.

And by studying philosophy online through Open Universities Australia, you can access leading universities no matter where in Australia you call home.

What career opportunities can I explore as a philosophy graduate?

As a philosophy graduate you will see the world with a unique lens. You’ll complete your course with a distinct skillset that can be applied to a wide variety of careers and across multiple fields.

Jobs you can pursue include:

A philosophy qualification can also support your career in a field where ethical dilemmas are common, such as business, medicine or politics.

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We’re here to guide you to the right uni course

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Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation helping every Australian to access thousands of university courses.

Over 523,000 students have enrolled in university through us since 1993.

How we can help you

Studying through Open Universities Australia means we take care of the guesswork and administration of university study, so you can focus on learning.

You don't need a strong academic history to go to uni

We make it possible for everyone to start university through single subjects, regardless of ATAR or study experience. These subjects are covered by government loans, and can be used to upskill or gain entry into a qualification.

You have the flexibility to start at multiple points during the year

We’re not restricted by a traditional academic calendar, so you can enrol when it suits your life. You also have total control over how you study. You can scale up (or down) your study load and even pause your course if you need to.

You can rely on us as an unbiased destination for online tertiary education

As a not for profit, we have your best interests at heart. Our advisors are here 7 days a week to guide and support you. It’s our priority to get you qualified with the university of your choice.

Enrol in courses from 25 of Australia's leading universities

Edith Cowan University logoUniversity of the Sunshine Coast logo
The University of Notre Dame Australia logoSouthern Cross University logo
Murdoch University logoThe University of Queensland logo
La Trobe University logoAustralian National University logo
Macquarie University logoTorrens University Australia logo
Flinders University logoUniversity of Southern Queensland logo
University of South Australia logoBond University logo
Curtin University logoJames Cook University Australia logo
Swinburne University logoGriffith University logo
University of Tasmania logoRMIT University logo
University of Adelaide logoCharles Sturt University logo
University of New England logoThe University of Newcastle logo
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