Philosophy, Politics and Economics

The degree of Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) is a springboard to a career in politics, finance or the media. The three complementary subjects have deep historical connections yet have developed as independent disciplines with distinctive methods. PPE students will leave the programme with an understanding not just of modern societies and their political institutions, but how rigorous critical evaluation can bring about significant social and political change.

PPE is a joint honours degree for students who have broad horizons and are interested in social and political studies and the humanities. The varied yet supporting nature of the three parts (containing courses from mathematical statistics to Aristotelian ethics) make it an interesting and dynamic programme. The variety provides students with three foundations from which to move forward. And, due to the intellectual connections that can be drawn between the disciplines, the knowledge and skills gained from each lends support to the others.

PPE students have a broad knowledge base:

An understanding of modern societies and their political institutions.

An understanding of the choices that political systems must make.

An understanding of how consumers, businesses and government make decisions and how these decisions collectively determine the allocation of resources.

An understanding of how rigorous critical evaluation can bring about significant social and political change.

And an impressive skills set:

Numeracy and data analysis skills

Reasoning and critical thinking skills

The ability to evaluate the concepts and values employed in political analysis

The ability to develop and express their views clearly