Aberdeen: Philosophy
This is a wonderful opportunity to study Philosophy at one of Scotland's ancient universities, The University of Aberdeen.听Our Philosophy Summer School will focus on contemporary research topics in Epistemology, Ethics and Political Philosophy. Drawing on internationally recognized expertise in Social Epistemology, History of Philosophy, Applied Ethics and Political Philosophy, and a strong record of teaching excellence, the program will focus on introducing students to contemporary research topics in Analytic Philosophy. Topics may include Knowledge and the Internet, Testimonial Injustice, comparative Epistemology across Analytic and Chinese Philosophy, ethical issues concerning the use of AI, ethics and health care, and philosophical issues relating to Global Justice and International Law. The program will also feature in-class language support and a variety of co-curricular activities where students will get a chance to sample different aspects of Scottish culture and history.
SPARK GRANT:
Qualifying freshman, sophomore, and transfer students can use their SPARK Grant for this short-term study abroad program.
Program Details
Program Dates
This program will run during Summer B from July 26- August 8, 2026
Program Itinerary
Sunday, July 26
Monday, July 27
- Introduction and Welcome Session
- Enjoy a tour of the University of Aberdeen, your home for the next 2 weeks. The school is located in Old Aberdeen, a beautiful urban area in Scotland, with buildings dating back to the 15th century.
- Join a local guide on a city tour of Aberdeen. This dynamic city is a beautiful blend of old world charm and modern cosmopolitan community. Its known as the cultural center of Scotland, making it a very safe, vibrant and approachable city to get to know.听
Tuesday, July 28
- Introduction to Analytic Philosophy
- Free Evening
Wednesday, July 29
- Health Care Ethics
- Free Evening
Thursday, July 30
- Ethics of AI
- Bowling/outing to Cadonas Amusement Park, a family owned property that is an institution in the city, loved by all the locals.听
Friday, July 31听
- Environmental Ethics
- Free Evening
Saturday, August 1
- Free Day/Philosophy Research Workshop (Details TBD)
Sunday, August 2
- Field trip to Edinburgh.听Students will leave early morning and bus to Edinburgh for the day. Enjoy visiting Edinburgh Castle, one of the oldest castles in Scotland. Its history runs deep as it was a royal residence, a prison, fortress and a military garrison. This architectural gem is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, full of military relics, royal family jewels, and iconic exhibits detailing generations of Scotland's history.听
Monday, August 3
- Epistemic Injustice
- Free Evening
Tuesday, August 4
- Social Epistemology
- Free Evening
Wednesday, August 5
- Social Epistemology
- Scottish Traditional Dancing at the King's Pavillion
Thursday, August 6
- Philosophy of Time and the Open Future
- Free Evening
Friday, August 7
- Comparative Philosophy: Chinese Philosophy and Analytic Philosophy
- Farewell Dinner
Saturday, August 8
Course Overview
This is a non-credit bearing course. Students will receive a completion certificate at the end of the program. Over two weeks, the program will cover the following topics:
- "Introduction to Analytic Philosophy" with Prof. Michael Beaney.
- "Medical and Public Health Ethics" with Prof. Vikki Entwistle.
- 鈥淓thics of AI" with Dr. Paula Sweeney.
- "Environmental Ethics" with Dr. Gerry Hough.
- "Political Philosophy" with Dr. Eilidh Beaton.
- "Epistemic Justice and Injustice" with Dr. Federico Luzzi.
- "Social Epistemology" with Prof. Jesper Kallestrup.
- "The History of Philosophy at Aberdeen" with Dr. Gerry Hough and Dr. Brad Bow.
- "Comparative Philosophy: Chinese Philosophy and Analytic Philosophy" with Prof. Michael Beaney.
Accommodations
All participants will be housed in University residence halls.听
Program Costs & Funding
Funding Source:
For SPARK eligible students, you will receive the $1,500 SPARK Grant from the Center for Life's Work.听
The program cost in 2026 is 拢2,000, roughly $2,300 USD.
Price Includes:
- Tuition
- 13听nights accommodation in University halls of residence.
- Leisure and Social activities听
Not included:
- International听travel to and from the UK.
- Travel or health insurance.
- Visa costs, where applicable.
- All meal costs
Vaccination Guidance
Visit the following sites to see the recommended immunizations and medications for your program. Talk with your family and your physician to understand which ones you may need to travel.听
Application Deadline
Applications are closed for 2026. This programs fills fast each year. If you are interested in applying for 2027, please contact Josh Fess early in the Fall 2026 school year. It is rolling admissions so its best to submit your application sooner than later before the program fills up.听听