Philosophy Level 3 (QLS) Course

Embark on a transformative learning journey with the UK’s most innovative home study provider, offering courses designed to unlock your true potential and facilitate the career change you desire. Access our distance learning courses directly from anywhere, anytime, and acquire industry-recognised Professional Qualifications essential for advancing in your career.

Specifically, explore the flexible and convenient Philosophy (Level 3) course, an ideal way to gain a diploma qualification. Whether you aim for further education, improved job prospects, or expanded knowledge, this comprehensive course allows you to prepare thoroughly for exams or careers through home study. Plus, it’s structured to be accessible and beneficial even if you have no prior knowledge in Philosophy.

Studying philosophy is not just intellectually stimulating; it also cultivates essential skills that are highly beneficial both personally and professionally. The OLC College Level 3 Diploma in Philosophy offers a comprehensive exploration of various philosophical topics, laying a solid foundation for further academic pursuits and career advancement. Philosophy serves as a cornerstone for understanding the fundamental questions of existence, morality, and knowledge, making it a crucial discipline for individuals seeking a deeper understanding of the world around them.

One of the key advantages of studying philosophy is its interdisciplinary nature. Philosophical inquiry enhances critical thinking skills, which are invaluable in fields ranging from science to business. For example, scientists benefit from understanding the underlying philosophical assumptions guiding their research, allowing them to contextualise their work within broader intellectual frameworks. Similarly, professionals in diverse fields can apply philosophical reasoning to ethical dilemmas, strategic decision-making, and problem-solving, enhancing their effectiveness and adaptability in the workplace.

The Level 3 Diploma in Philosophy provides students with a thorough grounding in key philosophical concepts, texts, and methodologies. Through engaging with a diverse range of philosophical issues, students not only expand their knowledge but also sharpen their analytical abilities and argumentative skills. This course fosters a culture of critical inquiry, encouraging students to challenge assumptions, evaluate evidence, and construct coherent arguments—a skill set that is highly sought after in today’s knowledge-based economy.

Furthermore, philosophy offers more than just intellectual stimulation; it fosters personal growth and self-reflection. By grappling with profound questions about existence, morality, and the nature of reality, students gain insight into their own beliefs and values, fostering a deeper sense of self-awareness and empathy. The Level 3 Diploma in Philosophy empowers students to navigate life’s complexities with greater clarity and confidence, equipping them with the tools to engage meaningfully with the world and contribute positively to society.

In essence, the study of philosophy is not just an academic pursuit; it is a transformative journey that enriches both the mind and the soul. The Level 3 Diploma in Philosophy offers students a unique opportunity to explore the timeless questions that have shaped human thought for centuries, while also honing essential skills that are invaluable in today’s rapidly changing world. Whether you’re pursuing further academic studies or seeking personal enrichment, this course is sure to leave a lasting impact on your intellectual and personal development.

QLS & OPA

Digital certificate - Included

the Philosophy (Level 3) course is divided into 10 modules.

Module 1: Moral Philosophy
Why should we be moral? Is it always wrong to lie? Why should we be good?

This first module examines the central traditional and contemporary disputes in moral philosophy. Often people consider themselves to be moral relativists, but is this view always defensible? Instead of looking at the consequences of our actions should we instead consider the motives as well?

Module 2: Applied Ethics
Ethical issues are always in the news and in this module we develop the philosophical skills needed to assess them. Here then we move away from the theoretical and apply what we have learned in module 1 to some real world issues.

In the second unit of the diploma we apply what we have learned from the first module to animal ethics, environmental ethics and the controversies surrounding the abortion debate.

Module 3: Political Philosophy
In the third module of the diploma we explore the idea of a ‘social contract’ and the extent to which we are obliged to obey the authorities in our society. Should we accept any amount of inequality so long as people have well protected property rights? In this module we also examine classical philosophical texts by Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau, as well as valuable contemporary works by John Rawls and Robert Nozick. We also explore the idea of social justice and inequality.

Module 4: Epistemology
What can we know? What is the basis of our belief in an external world? Can we be certain about anything? Is it possible that we are really nothing more than our own minds?

In the fourth module of the diploma we explore epistemology, or theories of knowledge. We consider the reliability of our perceptions and examine views of this important area of philosophy as presented by Descartes, Locke, Russell, Berkeley, and Kant. In this module we ask whether a mind-independent world really exists? We also examine the major contemporary contribution to epistemology made by John McDowell in his book Mind and World.

Module 5: Philosophy of Mind
Are we composed of two, dual substances; mind and body? Or are we merely physical things?

In this module we explore several theories of Mind including mind-body dualism, the problem of other minds, and personal identity. In the fifth module of the diploma in Philosophy we explore issues relating to the Philosophy of Mind. By drawing on works of philosophers such as Descartes, Davidson, and Wittgenstein we consider whether it is possible to establish whether we can you be sure that other people have minds? Are you the same person today that you were last year?

Module 6: Metaphysics
In this sixth module of the diploma we explore two central themes in the philosophical area of metaphysics.

First we look at the problem of universals, can someone or something be said to possess universals such as bravery or goodness? Can individual inanimate objects possess universal attributes such as a colour or texture.

Secondly we consider the idea of freedom of will. Do we appear to freely decide what to do at any given time? Are our plans and aspirations essentially futile? Is free will merely an illusion?

Module 7: An Introduction to Logic
A large part of the philosopher’s task is to examine arguments. It can be important to have a grasp of an argument’s underlying logic in order to assess its merits. This module will introduce you to some of the techniques logicians use to uncover the logic behind what people say.

Module 8: Philosophy of Religion
In the eight module of this diploma we explore questions such as ‘Does God exist?’, ‘Doesn’t the existence of natural disasters show that God is a myth?’ and ‘Is there life after death?’ As we consider these questions we will explore the arguments and views of philosophers such as Descartes, Kant and Aquinas, to name a few.

Module 9: Aesthetics
In the ninth module of the diploma we explore aesthetics. The debate on what constitutes art is an ongoing one, for some art is a painting such as the Mona Lisa, for others it is an unmade bed. In this module we consider questions such as ‘What is the value of art?’ Is it simply a matter of personal taste or are there objective reasons for liking a painting, sculpture, or novel? Why are we as human beings pre-disposed to seek out inanimate objects that we find appealing? Should art be assessed according to its moral value or is art independent of morality?

Module 10: Philosophy of History
Is history merely a series of events or does it have larger meaning? What causes historical change? Is it individuals or larger changes in social structure? In the final module of the diploma we draw on what we have learned in the earlier modules in epistemology and metaphysics and religion in order to explore what history is. In this module we will draw upon various arguments by Hegel, Marx, and others to explore this question.

• The Philosophy course is designed for individuals who possess a keen interest in exploring the depths of human thought and inquiry.
• Targeted towards both aspiring philosophers and those seeking to enrich their intellectual pursuits, this course appeals to a diverse audience.
• It caters to students who wish to lay a solid foundation in philosophical concepts as part of their academic journey or personal development.
• Additionally, professionals looking to enhance their critical thinking skills and broaden their understanding of fundamental philosophical principles will find this course invaluable.
• Whether you're a student preparing for higher education in philosophy or a working professional seeking to expand your intellectual horizons, the Philosophy course offers a stimulating and enriching learning experience.

• The good news is that no prior learning knowledge or experience is essential to take this course. This course is openly available to anyone wishing to learn more about Philosophy (Level 3) and would like to take part in a highly rewarding distance learning study course.
• We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to expand their knowledge and study further, so we try to keep our entry requirements to a minimum.
• You have the freedom to start the course at any time and continue your studies at your own pace for a period of up to 12 months from initial registration with full tutor support.

As an human resources (HR) officer, your aim is to ensure that the organisation you work for can meet its objectives by having the right workforce in place