Is this programme right for you?

Name: Sigrid Lindholm
From: Falun, Sweden

In my experience, the teachers always care about your development as an independent thinker, which is very important in philosophy.

Why did you choose this programme, and what did you study before?
– I completed my Bachelor’s degree in Aesthetics through the Open Bachelor's Programme in the Humanities here at Uppsala University. At first, I tried studying the history of ideas, but although it was very interesting, it wasn’t until I began studying aesthetics that I felt I had found the right field. After finishing my Bachelor’s degree, it therefore felt very natural to continue with a Master’s degree in Aesthetics. In the Master’s Programme in Aesthetics, you also get the opportunity to choose some of your courses yourself. You can, of course, choose courses in aesthetics, but there is also the option to take courses in practical and theoretical philosophy. Being able to broaden your knowledge of philosophy in this way has been a lot of fun!

What is the best thing about studying at Uppsala University?
– The dedicated teachers! In addition, since aesthetics is taught already at the undergraduate level, I had the opportunity during the past term to work as a teaching assistant by leading seminars for parts of the introductory course – a very educational experience! The Philosophy Department here in Uppsala also organises many interesting higher seminars and conferences that Master’s students are encouraged to attend. Beyond the programme itself, student life is of course also a big plus of studying at Uppsala University – if you want (and have the energy), there are fun events and activities almost every day!

What does a typical day in your programme look like?
– In general, the studies are very independent, and although it can vary somewhat depending on the course, you spend a lot of time reading articles, rereading them, and then writing essays about them. The teacher-led parts mainly consist of seminars. To make the most of that time, my classmates and I usually schedule pre-seminars to discuss what we’ve read and thereby have more focused discussions during the actual seminars. So, once you’ve read, had a seminar, and read a bit more, the day tends to be over in no time!

What has been the most challenging?
– The fact that the studies are so independent is probably the biggest challenge—you need a certain level of routine and discipline to keep up. What has helped me the most is studying together with others! That way, you can create shared routines, and the days don’t feel as lonely when you can have lunch and coffee breaks with friends. However, if you’re like me and enjoy talking about things other than philosophy, studying with others can itself be a challenge since the days might end up being spent chatting instead. That’s why I like studying in a quiet reading room: you’re studying together with others, but in a focused way.

Tell us about student life
– When people think of student life in Uppsala, they probably first think of the student nations and cheap beer. Don’t get me wrong—that’s great! But there are also many other fun student initiatives. One example is the Philosophy Student Association—which is part of the Uppsala Student Union—where I have served as a board member. It’s a lot of fun to be on the board with other philosophy students and to have the opportunity to organise guest lectures where you get to meet and talk to well-known philosophers such as Torbjörn Tännsjö or Jonna Bornemark.

What advice would you give to someone considering applying to this programme?
– If you’re like me and enjoy arguments and problem-solving, I would definitely recommend applying! A general tip would be to start thinking about a thesis topic relatively early. That way, you feel more mentally prepared when everything gets going. Another piece of advice is to find a study routine that works for you, and to give yourself breaks—otherwise studying becomes less enjoyable!

Three quick questions
Where do you prefer to study?
– The quiet reading room in the Karin Boye Library!

Best student tradition at Uppsala University?
– The cap ceremony at Carolinabacken on Walpurgis Night. I always get emotional when we sing in the spring!

Where do you see yourself in five years?
– Difficult question! Maybe working as a librarian? Or working with culture in some other way?

Spring 2026