Program Overview

A degree in Philosophy, Politics and Economics unites three disciplines that are foundational to public life and policy. Nowadays, anyone hoping to understand or advance in politics has to be proficient in economics, and an understanding of the philosophical underpinnings of the various political views that jostle on the public stage has long been recognised as hugely important.

As with the three-year degree, this programme provides the opportunity to master the overlap of the three disciplines, to come to grips with some of their specialisms, to attain a very thorough grounding in mathematical economics, and to develop skills in identifying and evaluating the principles and values that underlie debates. The combination is highly sought after by employers, who appreciate the breadth of knowledge and variety of skills that it provides.

Year one will comprise entirely of compulsory modules: four from Economics, and two each from Philosophy and Politics. In year two, as well as a range of Philosophy and Politics options, you will take some compulsory modules which include SOTA260, which will prepare you for your year in industry.

Your third year will be spent on a salaried placement in a role related to your studies, giving you the opportunity to apply skills and knowledge acquired during study to a real-life situation, thus developing key life and employability skills.

In your final year you will undertake a PPE-focused dissertation, and then optional modules from each of the three subjects.

Year in Industry

• This programme is available with an optional year in industry. If you choose this option, year three is spent on a paid placement within an organisation in industry, broadly defined. You will be supported by the School of the Arts and the Department throughout, and your reflexive written account of the experience will contribute towards your final degree result. If you wish to study this programme with a year in industry, please put the option code ‘YI’ in the ‘further choices’ section of your UCAS application form.

What you'll learn

• Advanced numeracy and literacy skills
• Creative, critical, and independent thinking
• Flexibility and adaptability
• Efficient time and information management
• The ability to organise and present a persuasive case
• The ability to devise and sustain arguments, and solve problems
• Systematic knowledge and critical understanding of key aspects of Philosophy, Politics and Economics