Global Ethics and Justice (Distance Learning) (Online)MSc

You'll gain experience applying ethical theories to real-world situations which will prepare you for a PhD or a rewarding career in international affairs. 

We also offer an on-campus programme over 1-2 years. Find out more about the on-campus MSc Global Ethics and Justice.

Course structure

The course runs over 12 months full-time. You can also study this programme part-time for up to 3 years. 

• Gain practical experience by taking part in a placement with an organisation of your choice, such as a Non-Government Organisation (NGO).
• Write a practice-based dissertation which responds to real world problems so you can prepare for your future career.
• Learn from philosophy experts who explore current ethical issues and how ethical theories impact our everyday lives.
• Join a diverse online community from around the world. Access virtual learning resources to discuss course content with your fellow students and tutors.

Flexible study options

Develop your career without having to leave employment. You’ll be supported by a personal tutor and have opportunities to connect with fellow students. Choose the duration of study that works for you – from one year full-time to two or three years part-time. 

• Taught modules - each module represents a total of 200 hours of study time, including preparatory reading, homework and assignment preparation. 
• Delivered via distance learning using the University's Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) - all teaching takes place asynchronously. This means the resources are uploaded in advance so you can complete activities and take part in discussions at a time that suits you.  
• Dissertation - you can choose to undertake a 15,000-word dissertation in an area that interests you or you can undertake a practice-based dissertation involving a placement where you produce a practical output for your placement host. You’ll also write a 12,000-word report on your placement.

Please note: You can take both the Global Ethics Placement module and complete a practice-based dissertation, but we would normally expect you to undertake two separate placements in different institutions.

The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.

As a research-intensive University, our teaching is informed by the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff. For more information on the circumstances in which the University may need to make changes to modules, please refer to the Terms and Conditions for applicants.

2025/26 Session

The following must be taken:

Students choose 60 credits of Level M optional DL modules in Philosophy (see below). Contingent upon approval by the Programme Convenor, students are allowed to choose optional 40 credits of Level M optional DL modules in Theology and Religion, History, or International Development. Students should aim for an even credit balance across semesters.

You should have, or expect to get, a 2:1 Honours degree in Philosophy or a relevant subject. This can be a single or joint honours degree containing Philosophy.  

If your undergraduate degree is in another subject, you can still apply. We consider every application on its merits, and we’ll consider applicants from diverse academic backgrounds.

We may also require you to submit a writing sample. This should be around 3-4 pages long. Although it does not need to be a Philosophy essay, you should demonstrate your ability to present an argument and write in an analytical style. These skills are necessary for postgraduate level Philosophy.

 If you have been out of academia for some time, we will accept a professional reference and one academic reference, rather than the standard requirement for two academic references. 

English language requirements

If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification.

For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:

• TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
• Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component
• LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill

English Presessional Programmes

Improve your knowledge of spoken and written English in preparation for studying at Birmingham with our pre-sessional English courses. If you have a conditional offer, you can take one of these courses as an alternative to retaking IELTS or other similar qualifications.

Please note: The part-time programme can be completed over up to three years, but fees are payable over two years; in each of years one and two, the fee payable will be half the full-time rate.

We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2025 entry are above.

The fees quoted are for one year only. For those studying courses that are longer than one year, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.

Paying your tuition fees

Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.

Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.

Postgraduate Masters Loan

To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.

Scholarships

To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.

Birmingham Masters Scholarships

We want to welcome the brightest talent to our postgraduate community. That’s why our Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.

The deadline for all students applying to our distance learning courses is 31 August 2025.

Late applicants are encouraged to contact the Admissions Tutor for advice.

Our Philosophy graduates enter many roles, including:

• Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Victims Adviser
• Policy Advisor
• Deputy HR Manager
• Tutor

Employers our Philosophy graduates have worked for include:

• Regional police forces
• University of Birmingham
• Migrant Help

Careers Network

Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.

Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.