Program Overview

 Explore and analyse contemporary issues and complex dynamics in today’s world using three disciplinary perspectives on our BA Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) degree.

PPE at the University of Reading equips you with a wide range of key and complementary skills from the fields of Philosophy, Politics and Economics. This will enable you to critically assess and address some of the world’s most pressing problems from a theoretical, practical, and ethical point of view. You will be a member of three departments meaning you will receive support from each and benefit from optional modules which enable you to specialise in areas that interest you the most. During your first year you’ll develop a strong grounding in philosophy, politics and economics and have the flexibility to continue with all three subjects in your second and final years or focus on two.
Philosophy

Explore and challenge some of our most fundamental ideas about truth, reality and ethical judgements while developing a deep understanding of the central principles, concepts, problems of philosophy. You will be taught by experts who research a wide range of areas spanning applied philosophy – from business ethics and the philosophy of law, to traditional areas of western and global philosophy. 
Politics

Examine ethical and moral issues that arise when political authority is exercised and gain a strong grounding in political ideas and democratic processes. You will learn from academics who regularly feature in academic literature and the media, offering their expertise on current issues and engaging in real-world politics. 

Economics

In economics, you will study both applied and practical issues, focusing on the relationship between economics and society. Benefit from research-led teaching by tutors who have informed policy decisions made by governments, major multinational organisations, and agencies such as the UN and the World Bank. 

This course places less emphasis on mathematical and statistical content than some Economics courses do; instead you will focus on the relevance of these techniques to applied problems. You will still learn necessary maths skills in your core modules, but extensive support is available should you need it.