phd in politics philosophy and economics

School of Philosophy, Politics and Economics

PhD in Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE)

Take the chance to explore multiple disciplines within your research, challenged by experts in the field.

October 2023 ( semester dates )

Apply for this PhD

International fees

2022/23 international fees

Meet us online or on campus and find out more about postgraduate study at York.

Our PhD programme offers high-quality training and a supportive environment in which to pursue your passion for research with internationally respected experts in the field from different disciplines.

Your research

Our PhD programme offers you the chance to become an agent of change, having the chance to explore multidisciplinary opportunities in research. You will be supported in your research by internationally respected experts in the field who will challenge you academically to enhance your PPE knowledge, skills, and experiences.

The PhD programme is aimed at those who wish to research areas such as:

• Political economy
• Economic philosophy
• Political philosophy

Supervision for your research projects will be across disciplines, meaning you will have access to support across at least two of our three highly regarded departments; Philosophy , Politics and Economics .

You should speak to potential supervisors before making your application, and you should say in the application who they are. If you need help in identifying potential supervisors please contact Professor Greg Currie, who is in charge of admissions to the programme. He is happy to talk through your ideas with you.

[email protected] +44 (0)1904 324167

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International reputation

As one of the first universities to offer a Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) degree, we have an established and strong reputation around the world.

Inspiring and innovative

We combine intellectual rigour with a friendly and inclusive atmosphere. You will have access to support, resources, and facilities across our three innovative departments.

Explore funding for MPhil/PhD researchers and wider postgraduate support.

Supervision

You will be supported by academic supervisors. Supervisors will normally share or complement your research interests.

Training and support

The PhD programme is undertaken over three years (full-time), with progression points at the end of the first and second year.

Throughout this time, your supervisors will guide you through the process of clarifying and completing your doctoral thesis.

In addition, during the first year, a range of subject-specific research training modules will be available to support your through the exploratory phase of this programme.

Course location

You will be based in the  School of Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE)  located on  Campus West . 

You should live in or near York during your PhD programme, whether part-time or full-time. We do not offer distance learning arrangements for this programme.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a 2:1 at undergraduate degree level, and have or be completing a Masters degree. Fields of previous study may be Philosophy, Politics or Economics (singularly or in combination).

Other fields of study may be considered, however, it should be clear from your academic record that you are suitably prepared for the research that you propose to do. If your area of previous study is another field, please make sure to discuss this with potential supervisors to ensure you are suitable to apply for this PhD programme.

You should also be able to demonstrate proven interdisciplinary PPE skills and experience.

English language requirements

If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence of your ability.

Apply for the PhD in Philosophy, Politics and Education (PPE)

Take a look at the  supporting documents  you may need for your application.

Identify a supervisor

You should speak to potential supervisors before making your application, and you should say in the application who they are. They should be academics whose research overlaps with the area you wish to study.

You can find details on the research interests of our academic staff and how to contact them by using the following:

• Staff research interests for Philosophy
• Staff research interests for Politics
• Staff research interests for Economics

If you need help in identifying potential supervisors please contact Professor Greg Currie , who is in charge of admissions to the programme. He is happy to talk through your ideas with you. 

If your application is unsuitable for interdisciplinary supervision, we may encourage you to submit a single-subject application instead. 

Submitting your application

You will be required to submit the following documents:

• Application form
• Research proposal
• Academic transcripts
• Details of two referees
• Your curriculum vitae (CV)
• Personal statement

You can apply and send all your documentation electronically through our online system. You don’t need to complete your application all at once: you can start, save and finish it later.

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Home » PPE Programs Around the World

PPE Programs Around the World

International ppe programs.

Listed below is a compilation of university PPE programs around the world, with links to their program websites.

We hope this can be useful when thinking about the exponential growth of PPE internationally in recent years.

If you know of an institution not listed below, or if you would like to request an update, please email us at  [email protected] .

If you have not filled out the PPE Program survey , please do so.

To see a cross sample of PPE Programs and information about them, generated from the survey above,  visit our spreadsheet.

Jump to: Africa | Asia | Australia and New Zealand | Europe | North America | South America

• Afe Babalola University
• Obafemi Awolowo University

South Africa

• Stellenbosch University
• University of Cape Town
• University of KwaZulu-Natal
• University of South Africa
• University of Johannesburg
• University of Pretoria
• University of Witwatersrand
• Asian University for Women
• Tsinghua University
• Peking University
• Renmin University of China
• Amity University, Noida
• Ashoka University
• Bangalore University, Bangalore
• Lucknow University, Lucknow
• The Open University of Israel
• University of Haifa
• Hebrew University of Jerusalem
• Tel Aviv University  ( PPEL with law)
• Waseda University
• National University of Singapore

South Korea

• Korea University
• Sogang University  ( PEP )
• Hanyang University  ( PPEL with law )
• Rangsit University
• Thammasat University
• Istanbul Bilgi University  ( Political Economy and Social Philosophy )

Australia and New Zealand

• Australian National University
• Deakin University
• La Trobe University
• Monash University
• Murdoch University
• University of Adelaide
• University of New South Wales
• University of Queensland
• University of Technology, Sydney
• University of Western Australia
• University of Wollongong

New Zealand

• University of Otago
• Victoria University Wellington
• Central European University
• University of Graz  ( MA in Political, Economic and Legal Philosophy “PELP” )

Czech Republic

• Charles University, Prague   (BA & MA)
• American University of Paris
• European School of Political and Social Sciences (ESPOL)
• Institutes for Political Studies (Sciences Po)
• Karlshochschule International University  ( BA )
• Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich
• University of Bayreuth
• University of Düsseldorf
• University of Hamburg  ( M.Sc. in Politics, Economics and Philosophy “PEP” )
• University of Saarland
• Witten/Herdecke University  ( BA and MA )
• Corvinus University, Budapest
• Bifröst University
• Maynooth University  (MA)
• University of Dublin
• Free University of Bolzano
• Ca’ Foscari University of Venice  (Philosophy, International and Economic Studies “PISE”)
• Libera Università Internazionale degli Studi Sociali Guido Carli, Rome
• The University of Bari Aldo Moro (MA in PPE in Med)
• University of Milano  (MA in Politics, Philosophy, and Public Affairs or  Economics and Political Science )

Netherlands

• Erasmus University College
• Leiden University
• University of Amsterdam
• University of Groningen
• VU University Amsterdam
• Portuguese Catholic University
• University of Bucharest   (MA in PPE)
• National Research University – Higher School of Economics, Moscow  (MA in P.E.P.)
• Charles III University of Madrid
• Autonomous University of Madrid
• Autonomous University of Barcelona
• Pompeu Fabra University
• Francisco de Vitoria University
• IE University
• Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona 
• University of Navarra
• University of Deusto, Basque Country
• Ramon Llull University, Barcelona
• Comillas Pontifical University, Madrid
• Lund University

Switzerland

• University of Zurich  ( MA in Economic and Political Philosophy )
• University of Lucerne
• University of Bern  ( MA in Political, Legal and Economic Philosophy “PLEP” )
• Ukrainian Catholic University, Lviv  (Ethics, Politics, Economics “EPE”)

United Kingdom

• Durham University
• Goldsmiths University of London
• Keele University (Philosophy and Politics)
• King’s College London
• Lancaster University
• London School of Economics
• The Open University
• Queen’s University Belfast
• Royal Holloway, University of London
• SOAS – University of London
• Swansea University
• University College London
• University of Aberdeen
• University of East Anglia
• University of Essex
• University of Exeter
• University of the Highlands and Islands
• University of Hull
• University of Leeds
• University of Liverpool
• University of Manchester
• University of Nottingham
• University of Oxford
• University of Reading
• University of Sheffield
• University of Southampton
• University of Stirling
• University of Sussex
• University of Warwick
• University of Winchester
• University of York

North America

• Mount Allison University
• Queen’s University
• The King’s University
• University of British Columbia – Okanagan Campus
• University of Regina
• University of Western Ontario

United States

• Adelphi University
• Austin College
• Binghamton University
• Bowie State University
• Bowling Green State University
• Bridgewater State University
• Brown University
• Calvin University
• Carroll University
• Carnegie Mellon University
• Claremont McKenna College
• Criswell College
• Dartmouth University (Political Economy Project)
• Denison University
• Drexel University
• Duke University
• Eastern Oregon University
• Elon University
• Emory & Henry College
• Florida State University
• George Mason University 
• Georgia State University (BIS and MIS)
• Juniata College
• The King’s College (NY)
• La Salle University
• Mercer University
• Minnesota State University, Mankato

(U.S. cont.)

• Mount St. Mary’s University
• Northeastern University
• Pomona College
• Rhodes College
• Rutgers University
• Seattle Pacific University
• St. John’s University
• Suffolk University
• The Ohio State University
• Taylor University
• Transylvania University
• Tulane University
• University of Alabama – Birmingham
• University of Akron
• University of Arizona
• University at Buffalo
• University of California, Irvine
• University of Idaho
• University of Iowa
• University of Michigan
• University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
• University of Notre Dame
• University of Pennsylvania
• University of Pittsburgh
• University of Richmond
• University of San Diego
• University of Southern California
• University of Virginia
• University of Washington – Tacoma
• University of Washington – Bothell
• Virginia Tech
• Wabash College
• Wesleyan University
• Western Washington University
• Xavier University
• Yale University

South America

• Universidad Torcuato Di Tella  ( Ciencia Sociales, Orientación en Política y Economía )
• Universidad del Desarrollo
• Universidad de Las Américas
• Universid ad de Montevideo

• Philosophy, Politics and Economics Program >

Graduate Study in PPE

Study PPE by getting your PhD in philosophy.

The Department of Philosophy has a nationally recognized strength in philosophy, politics and economics. Our graduate students have a unique opportunity to receive training in core areas of PPE and extensive training in formal modeling approaches such as game theory, computational modeling, and experimental methods. Students learn to integrate these tools with a deep understanding of social and political philosophy. 

To learn more about our philosophy PhD program, visit the  graduate study in philosophy page .

• Work with leading researchers
• Explore a wide variety of research programs and topics of interest
• Study, apply, and integrate multiple methods of inquiry
• Hone your technical skills while developing a deep understanding of political theory

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Political Economics

The political economics field is an interdisciplinary field focusing on the collective, political activity of individuals and organizations.

The PhD Program in political economics prepares students for research and teaching positions by providing rigorous training in theoretical and empirical techniques. The intellectual foundation for the program is positive political economy, which includes formal models of rational choice, collective action, political institutions, political competition, and behavioral political economy. Development and extensions of theories are often combined with empirical analysis, including the identification of causal effects.

Students become involved in research early in the program. They begin their own research during the first year and are required to write research papers during the summers following the first and second years. The program is flexible and allows ample opportunity to tailor coursework and research to individual interests. The program is small by design to promote close interaction between students and faculty.

Fields of Inquiry

Specific fields of inquiry include:

• Bureaucratic politics
• Comparative institutions
• Constitutional choice
• Government and business
• Interest groups
• Judicial institutions
• Law and economics
• Legislative behavior and organization
• Macro political economy
• Political economy of development
• Political behavior and public opinion

Cross-Campus Collaboration

The program, embedded in the larger community of political economics scholars at Stanford University, combines the resources of Stanford GSB with opportunities to study in the departments of economics and political science .

Drawing on the offerings of all three units, students have a unique opportunity to combine the strengths of economic methods and analytical political science and to apply them to the study of political economy. The program involves coursework in economic theory, econometrics, game theory, political theory, and theories of institutions and organizations.

Preparation and Qualifications

Faculty selects students on the basis of predicted performance in the PhD Program. Because of the rigorous nature of the program, a substantial background or ability in the use of analytical methods is an important factor in the admission decision.

In many instances, successful applicants have majored in economics, mathematics, or political science as undergraduates. However, this background is not a prerequisite for admission.

Students are expected to have, or to obtain during their first year, mathematical skill at the level of one year of calculus and one course each in linear algebra, analysis, probability, optimization, and statistics.

The successful applicant usually has clearly defined career goals that are compatible with the purposes of the program and is interested in doing basic research in empirical and/or theoretical political economics.

Faculty in Political Economics

Jonathan bendor, steven callander, katherine casey, dana foarta, andrew b. hall, bård harstad, saumitra jha, daniel p. kessler, neil malhotra, gregory j. martin, condoleezza rice, emeriti faculty, david p. baron, david w. brady, keith krehbiel, recent publications in political economics, trading stocks builds financial confidence and compresses the gender gap, effects of a u.s. supreme court ruling to restrict abortion rights, asymmetric ideological segregation in exposure to political news on facebook, recent insights by stanford business, studying news junkies reveals insights into online reading and info bubbles, the gap between the supreme court and most americans’ views is growing, the federal government pays farmers. that doesn’t mean farmers are fans..

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MPhil/PhD Philosophy

• Graduate research
• Department of Philosophy Logic and Scientific Method
• Application code V7ZP
• Starting 2024
• Home full-time: Closed
• Overseas full-time: Closed
• Location: Houghton Street, London

The Department of Philosophy, Logic and Scientific Method is a world-leading centre for research in three broad areas of philosophy: rational choice theory and formal epistemology; philosophy of science; and moral and political philosophy.

We accept MPhil/PhD students wishing to work in any field of research in which the department has special expertise, including philosophy of the natural sciences (especially physics and biology); distributive justice and normative ethics; philosophy and public policy; philosophy of the social sciences (especially economics); decision theory, evolutionary and game theory; and formal epistemology.

We are committed to research that makes a difference not only to philosophy and the philosophies of the various sciences, but also to the practice of the sciences themselves – from economics and political science to physics, biology and medicine – as well as to the wider world. The Department’s teaching is research-led: courses cover cutting-edge material and are taught by some of the field’s leading scholars.

On this programme you will work towards producing a substantial piece of work that makes an original contribution to the subject and is of a sufficient standard to give rise to publications in professional academic journals.

You will benefit from the department’s close association with the Centre for Philosophy of Natural and Social Science , which hosts leading visiting scholars and supports a range of research projects, seminars and lecture series, and The Forum for Philosophy , which runs a full and varied programme of philosophy and interdisciplinary events. You will also have the opportunity to attend and take part in the Department’s regular seminar and lecture series, including the Choice Group on decision theory and social choice, and the Sigma Club on the philosophy and foundations of modern physics.

As a Philosophy MPhil/PhD student you will be given the chance to teach the undergraduate discussion classes that are run in parallel with lectures. An essential part of becoming a good philosopher is learning how to teach, share and discuss ideas with those interested in philosophy at all levels, and the discussion classes you lead at LSE will provide ample opportunity.

The department  is currently recruiting one research student for a fully funded 4-year PhD degree, as part of the ‘Not in My Name!’ project . Applications close on 15 January 2024 for a September 2024 start date.

Programme details

For more information about tuition fees and entry requirements, see the fees and funding and assessing your application sections.

Entry requirements

Minimum entry requirements for mphil/phd philosophy.

The minimum entry requirement for this programme is a taught master’s degree (or equivalent) in philosophy (or a sufficiently relevant discipline). We normally accept only those who achieve the equivalent of a distinction overall and in the dissertation component of their master's degree.

Competition for places at the School is high. This means that even if you meet our minimum entry requirement, this does not guarantee you an offer of admission. 

If you have studied or are studying outside of the UK then have a look at our  Information for International Students  to find out the entry requirements that apply to you.

Assessing your application

We welcome applications for research programmes that complement the academic interests of members of staff at the School, and we recommend that you investigate  staff research interests  before applying.

We carefully consider each application on an individual basis, taking into account all the information presented on your application form, including your:

- academic achievement (including existing and pending qualifications) - statement of academic purpose - references - CV - outline research proposal - sample of written work.

Research proposal

This is an important document, which should provide a description of your likely research topic for your PhD. (There is scope for changes in this topic during the first year. In consultation with your academic supervisor, you will need to settle on a definite research topic by the end of that year.) So long as you provide a brief summary of your entire research project at the outset, it is not a problem to exceed the suggested 1,500 word limit even by a significant amount. If you already have a well-worked-out PhD project, you are in fact encouraged to supply a detailed description, which may include chapter by chapter summaries. If you would like your project to be supervised by a particular member or members of the Department, please indicate this in your proposal. Contrary to LSE's general guidance on research proposals, you do not need to provide either a description of the methodology you will employ or case studies, as these particular guidelines are for dissertations in the social sciences rather than philosophy.

Please note that a precise research topic can be accepted only if someone in the Department is well-placed to supervise such a project.

Writing sample

This is another important document. It is not a problem to include a writing sample that exceeds 3,000 words even by a significant amount, so long as you indicate, at the outset, a 3,000 word subset of this longer piece of writing on which the selection committee should focus their attention. It is not necessary to provide a scanned copy of your writing sample. You may, for example, simply upload a Word file.

See further information on supporting documents

You may also have to provide evidence of your English proficiency. You do not need to provide this at the time of your application to LSE, but we recommend that you do.  See our English language requirements  for further information.

When to apply

The application deadline for this programme is 15 January 2024 . However, to be considered for any LSE funding opportunity, you must have submitted your application and all supporting documents by the funding deadline. See the fees and funding section for more details.

Fees and funding

Every research student is charged a fee in line with the fee structure for their programme.  The fee covers registration and examination fees payable to the School, lectures, classes and individual supervision, lectures given at other colleges under intercollegiate arrangements and, under current arrangements, membership of the Students' Union. It does not cover living costs or travel or fieldwork.

Tuition fees 2024/25 for MPhil/PhD Philosophy

Home students: £4,829 for the first year (provisional) Overseas students: £22,632 for the first year

The fee is likely to rise over subsequent years of the programme. The School charges home research students in line with the level of fee that the Research Councils recommend. The fees for overseas students are likely to rise in line with the assumed percentage increase in pay costs (ie, 4 per cent per annum).

The Table of Fees shows the latest tuition amounts for all programmes offered by the School.

Fee status​

The amount of tuition fees you will need to pay, and any financial support you are eligible for, will depend on whether you are classified as a home or overseas student, otherwise known as your fee status. LSE assesses your fee status based on guidelines provided by the Department of Education.

Further information about fee status classification.

Scholarships, studentships and other funding

This programme is eligible for  LSE PhD Studentships . Selection for the PhD Studentships is based on receipt of an application for a place – including all ancillary documents, before the funding deadline. 

The department is also currently recruiting one research student for a fully funded 4-year PhD degree, as part of the ‘Not in My Name!’ project . 

Funding deadline for the LSE PhD Studentships and the fully-funded 'Not in My Name!' project: 15 January 2024 . 

In addition to our needs-based awards, LSE also makes available scholarships for students from specific regions of the world and awards for students studying specific subject areas.  Find out more about financial support.

External funding 

There may be other funding opportunities available through other organisations or governments and we recommend you investigate these options as well.

Further information

Fees and funding opportunities

Information for international students

LSE is an international community, with over 140 nationalities represented amongst its student body. We celebrate this diversity through everything we do.  

If you are applying to LSE from outside of the UK then take a look at our Information for International students . 

1) Take a note of the UK qualifications we require for your programme of interest (found in the ‘Entry requirements’ section of this page). 

2) Go to the International Students section of our website. 

3) Select your country. 

4) Select ‘Graduate entry requirements’ and scroll until you arrive at the information about your local/national qualification. Compare the stated UK entry requirements listed on this page with the local/national entry requirement listed on your country specific page.

Programme structure and courses

In addition to making progress on your PhD project, you are expected to take the listed training and transferable skills courses. You may take courses in addition to those listed and should discuss this with your supervisor. All programmes of study should be agreed with your supervisor at the start of the year.

The first “coursework” year prepares students for research in philosophy and the completion of a central thesis chapter. At the end of this first year the progress of students is reviewed, to establish that they are on track to upgrade from MPhil to PhD status. In consultation with their academic supervisors, PhD students also settle on a definite research topic by the end of the first year.

Training courses

Compulsory (examined/not examined)  Philosophical Problems Seminar Examines a range of classic papers in contemporary analytic philosophy that might not otherwise be covered in LSE Philosophy Department courses.  Either Logic and Probability Aims to give a precise formulation of correct deductive reasoning – of what it means for a sentence to follow from a set of other sentences taken as premises – and to investigate on this basis other important logical notions such as that of consistency.  Or One further master's-level course not already taken

Either one further  master's-level course not already taken And Courses to the value of one unit of PhD Seminars Or   Three term units of PhD level seminars with associated coursework

Optional (not examined) Transferable skills courses offered by the Teaching and Learning Centre or the Methodology Institute.

Second year

Years 2–4 is the time when PhD students dive deep into the research and writing of their thesis. While writing the thesis students attend the Department’s Popper Seminar, but also any of the wealth of regular research seminars that may be relevant to their research.

Students in their 2nd year aim to write two or three further chapters beyond the chapter they completed in their first year.

Optional (not examined) Research Seminar in the Philosophy of Natural Sciences This is a special topics course on the philosophy of physics. It meets weekly, and has two components. The first component (roughly half the meetings) will consist in lectures on the philosophy of physics. The remaining component will consist in attending cutting-edge lectures by professional philosophers of physics, and in some cases by other philosophers of science.

Research Seminar in the Philosophy of Economics and Social Sciences Covers philosophical issues in economics and the social sciences. Research Methods in Philosophy Covers topics in contemporary philosophy. Optional (examined/not examined)  Transferable skills courses offered by the Teaching and Learning Centre or the Methodology Institute.

In the 3rd year students produce a draft of the entire thesis, while writing papers, submitting to conferences, and getting to know the dynamic field of philosophy and their place in it. In the 4th year, students polish their material and prepare to go on the job market.

Optional (not examined)

Research Seminar in the Philosophy of Natural Sciences This is a special topics course on the philosophy of physics. It meets weekly, and has two components. The first component (roughly half the meetings) will consist in lectures on the philosophy of physics. The remaining component will consist in attending cutting-edge lectures by professional philosophers of physics, and in some cases by other philosophers of science.

Research Seminar in the Philosophy of Economics and Social Sciences Covers philosophical issues in economics and the social sciences. Research Methods in Philosophy Covers topics in contemporary philosophy.

Optional (examined/not examined)  Transferable skills courses offered by the Teaching and Learning Centre or the Methodology Institute.

Fourth year

Optional (examined/not examined)  Transferable skills courses offered by the Teaching and Learning Centre or the Department of Methodology.

For the most up-to-date list of optional courses please visit the relevant School Calendar page.  

You must note, however, that while care has been taken to ensure that this information is up to date and correct, a change of circumstances since publication may cause the School to change, suspend or withdraw a course or programme of study, or change the fees that apply to it. The School will always notify the affected parties as early as practicably possible and propose any viable and relevant alternative options. Note that the School will neither be liable for information that after publication becomes inaccurate or irrelevant, nor for changing, suspending or withdrawing a course or programme of study due to events outside of its control, which includes but is not limited to a lack of demand for a course or programme of study, industrial action, fire, flood or other environmental or physical damage to premises.  

You must also note that places are limited on some courses and/or subject to specific entry requirements. The School cannot therefore guarantee you a place. Please note that changes to programmes and courses can sometimes occur after you have accepted your offer of a place. These changes are normally made in light of developments in the discipline or path-breaking research, or on the basis of student feedback. Changes can take the form of altered course content, teaching formats or assessment modes. Any such changes are intended to enhance the student learning experience. You should visit the School’s  Calendar , or contact the relevant academic department, for information on the availability and/or content of courses and programmes of study. Certain substantive changes will be listed on the  updated graduate course and programme information page.

Supervision, progression, and assessment

Supervision.

PhD students in the Department work with two supervisors from the  academic faculty , to ensure a wide range of advice. The choice of secondary supervisor can be quite flexible (and occasionally includes academics from outside the Department). The primary supervisor is a senior member of staff. Both primary and secondary supervisory arrangements can change in the course of the degree as your thesis develops. 

Progression and assessment

Successful completion of work required for each year is a necessary condition for re-registration in the following year; and for upgrading from MPhil to PhD status. During the first year you must write a first chapter of the thesis as well as an outline (research plan) of the rest of the thesis. The chapter should be around 40 pages; the research plan around ten pages. This upgrading will normally take place after the successful completion of Year One requirements in Case A, and after the successful completion of Year Two requirements in Case B. In both cases, once you are registered for the PhD that registration will be backdated to the start of your MPhil/PhD studies.

Student support and resources

We’re here to help and support you throughout your time at LSE, whether you need help with your academic studies, support with your welfare and wellbeing or simply to develop on a personal and professional level.

Whatever your query, big or small, there are a range of people you can speak to who will be happy to help.  

Department librarians   – they will be able to help you navigate the library and maximise its resources during your studies. 

Accommodation service  – they can offer advice on living in halls and offer guidance on private accommodation related queries.

Class teachers and seminar leaders  – they will be able to assist with queries relating to specific courses. 

Disability and Wellbeing Service  – they are experts in long-term health conditions, sensory impairments, mental health and specific learning difficulties. They offer confidential and free services such as  student counselling,  a  peer support scheme  and arranging  exam adjustments.  They run groups and workshops.  

IT help  – support is available 24 hours a day to assist with all your technology queries.   

LSE Faith Centre  – this is home to LSE's diverse religious activities and transformational interfaith leadership programmes, as well as a space for worship, prayer and quiet reflection. It includes Islamic prayer rooms and a main space for worship. It is also a space for wellbeing classes on campus and is open to all students and staff from all faiths and none.   

Language Centre  – the Centre specialises in offering language courses targeted to the needs of students and practitioners in the social sciences. We offer pre-course English for Academic Purposes programmes; English language support during your studies; modern language courses in nine languages; proofreading, translation and document authentication; and language learning community activities.

LSE Careers  ­ – with the help of LSE Careers, you can make the most of the opportunities that London has to offer. Whatever your career plans, LSE Careers will work with you, connecting you to opportunities and experiences from internships and volunteering to networking events and employer and alumni insights. 

LSE Library   –   founded in 1896, the British Library of Political and Economic Science is the major international library of the social sciences. It stays open late, has lots of excellent resources and is a great place to study. As an LSE student, you’ll have access to a number of other academic libraries in Greater London and nationwide. 

LSE LIFE  – this is where you should go to develop skills you’ll use as a student and beyond. The centre runs talks and workshops on skills you’ll find useful in the classroom; offers one-to-one sessions with study advisers who can help you with reading, making notes, writing, research and exam revision; and provides drop-in sessions for academic and personal support. (See ‘Teaching and assessment’). 

LSE Students’ Union (LSESU)  – they offer academic, personal and financial advice and funding.  

PhD Academy   – this is available for PhD students, wherever they are, to take part in interdisciplinary events and other professional development activities and access all the services related to their registration. 

Sardinia House Dental Practice   – this   offers discounted private dental services to LSE students.  

St Philips Medical Centre  – based in Pethwick-Lawrence House, the Centre provides NHS Primary Care services to registered patients.

Student Services Centre  – our staff here can answer general queries and can point you in the direction of other LSE services.  

Student advisers   – we have a  Deputy Head of Student Services (Advice and Policy)  and an  Adviser to Women Students  who can help with academic and pastoral matters.

Student life

As a student at LSE you’ll be based at our central London campus. Find out what our campus and London have to offer you on academic, social and career perspective. 

Student societies and activities

Your time at LSE is not just about studying, there are plenty of ways to get involved in  extracurricular activities . From joining one of over 200 societies, or starting your own society, to volunteering for a local charity, or attending a public lecture by a world-leading figure, there is a lot to choose from. 

The campus 

LSE is based on one  campus  in the centre of London. Despite the busy feel of the surrounding area, many of the streets around campus are pedestrianised, meaning the campus feels like a real community. 

Life in London 

London is an exciting, vibrant and colourful city. It's also an academic city, with more than 400,000 university students. Whatever your interests or appetite you will find something to suit your palate and pocket in this truly international capital. Make the most of career opportunities and social activities, theatre, museums, music and more. 

Want to find out more? Read why we think  London is a fantastic student city , find out about  key sights, places and experiences for new Londoners . Don't fear, London doesn't have to be super expensive: hear about  London on a budget . 

Quick Careers Facts for the Department of Philosophy, Logic and Scientific Method

Median salary of our PG students 15 months after graduating: £34,500

Top 5 sectors our students work in:

• Education, Teaching and Research            
• Government, Public Sector and Policy   
• Consultancy      
• Health and Social Care  
• International Organisations

The data was collected as part of the Graduate Outcomes survey, which is administered by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA). Graduates from 2020-21 were the fourth group to be asked to respond to Graduate Outcomes. Median salaries are calculated for respondents who are paid in UK pounds sterling and who were working in full-time employment.

Students who successfully complete the programme often embark on an academic career. Recent doctoral graduates have also gone into careers in consulting, teaching and business. 

The Department maintains a placement record of its former PhD students.

Further information on graduate destinations for this programme

Support for your career

Many leading organisations give careers presentations at the School during the year, and LSE Careers has a wide range of resources available to assist students in their job search. Find out more about the  support available to students through LSE Careers .

Find out more about LSE

Discover more about being an LSE student - meet us in a city near you, visit our campus or experience LSE from home. 

Experience LSE from home

Webinars, videos, student blogs and student video diaries will help you gain an insight into what it's like to study at LSE for those that aren't able to make it to our campus.  Experience LSE from home . 

Come on a guided campus tour, attend an undergraduate open day, drop into our office or go on a self-guided tour.  Find out about opportunities to visit LSE . 

LSE visits you

Student Marketing, Recruitment and Study Abroad travels throughout the UK and around the world to meet with prospective students. We visit schools, attend education fairs and also hold Destination LSE events: pre-departure events for offer holders.  Find details on LSE's upcoming visits . 

How to apply

Virtual Graduate Open Day

Register your interest

Visit the Philosophy website

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Msc philosophy and public policy.

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MSc Philosophy of Economics and the Social Sciences

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Graduate Program

Pushing the Scholarly Frontier

PhD in Political Science

Our doctoral students are advancing political science as a discipline. They explore the empirical phenomena that produce new scholarly insights—insights that improve the way governments and societies function. As a result, MIT Political Science graduates are sought after for top teaching and research positions in the U.S. and abroad. Read where program alumni are working around the world.

How the PhD program works

The MIT PhD in Political Science requires preparation in two of these major fields:

• American Politics
• Comparative Politics
• International Relations
• Models and Methods
• Political Economy
• Security Studies

We recommend that you take a broad array of courses across your two major fields. In some cases, a single course may overlap across the subject matter of both fields. You may not use more than one such course to "double count" for the course distribution requirement. Keep in mind that specific fields may have additional requirements.

You are free to take subjects in other departments across the Institute. Cross-registration arrangements also permit enrollment in subjects taught in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences at Harvard University and in some of Harvard's other graduate schools.

Requirements

1. number of subjects.

You will need two full academic years of work to prepare for the general examinations and to meet other pre-dissertation requirements. Typically, a minimum of eight graduate subjects are required for a PhD.

2. Scope and Methods

This required one-semester seminar for first-year students introduces principles of empirical and theoretical analysis in political science.

3. Statistics

You must successfully complete at least one class in statistics.

You must successfully complete at least one class in empirical research methods.

5. Philosophy

You must successfully complete at least one class in political philosophy.

6. Foreign language or advanced statistics

You must demonstrate reading proficiency in one language other than English by successfully completing two semesters of intermediate-level coursework or an exam in that language, or you must demonstrate your knowledge of advanced statistics by successfully completing three semesters of coursework in advanced statistics. International students whose native language is not English are not subject to the language requirement.

7. Field research

We encourage you to conduct field research and to develop close working ties with faculty members engaged in major research activities.

8. Second Year Paper/workshop

You must complete an article-length research paper and related workshop in the spring semester of the second year. The second-year paper often develops into a dissertation project.

9. Two examinations

In each of your two elected fields, you must take a general written and oral examination. To prepare for these examinations, you should take at least three courses in each of the two fields, including the field seminar.

10. Doctoral thesis

As a rule, the doctoral thesis requires at least one year of original research and data collection. Writing the dissertation usually takes a substantially longer time. The thesis process includes a first and second colloquium and an oral defense. Be sure to consult the MIT Specifications for Thesis Preparation as well as the MIT Political Science Thesis Guidelines . Consult the MIT academic calendar to learn the due date for final submission of your defended, signed thesis.

Questions? Consult the MIT Political Science Departmental Handbook or a member of the staff in the MIT Political Science Graduate Office .

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Headed by experts in the field of behavioral change, Penn SONG (Social Norms Group) provides specialized research, strategy, and training services to organizations attempting to positively impact human behavior.

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Politics, Philosophy and Economics

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Course Overview

It is impossible to fully understand the modern world without knowledge of politics, philosophy and economics. They have long been recognised as overlapping and informing one other and it was only relatively recently in intellectual history that the three subjects were separated from one another. Politics, Philosophy and Economics (PPE) brings together these subjects to help you understand and engage with the world. You will develop essential skills of reasoning, inquiry and analysis that are applicable to a wide range of careers, including banking and finance, law, academia and teaching, journalism and politics. 

Birkbeck's interdisciplinary MSc Politics, Philosophy and Economics introduces you to the basics of the three subjects and it will hone your ability to understand, evaluate and analyse real-world information. The study of philosophy will introduce you to critical reasoning and some of the most profound questions it is possible to ask about humanity. The study of politics will acquaint you with modern governing structures in the UK, EU and further afield and with the concepts and ideas that underpin the theory and practice of politics. The study of economics will help you grasp how business, finance and politics intersect and determine how we live and work. 

You can choose from a wide range of option modules and your learning will be informed by the cutting-edge research and expertise of academics across the three subject areas at Birkbeck. 

You will also receive one-to-one dissertation supervision on a topic of your choosing.

Discover the career opportunities available by taking Politics, Philosophy and Economics (MSc).

Key information and modules

Politics, philosophy and economics msc: 1 year full-time, on campus, starting october 2024.

Central London

Politics, Philosophy and Economics MSc: 2 years part-time, on campus, starting October 2024

Find another course:

• This is the only PPE course available for part-time evening study in the UK. 
• Birkbeck has a strong international research reputation in politics, philosophy and economics.
• Birkbeck Library has large politics, philosophy and economics collections, including the major specialist journals, and provides you with access to an extensive range of online materials. 
• You can also take advantage of the rich research collections nearby, including Senate House Library , which is right next door to Birkbeck, the British Library , which is five minutes’ walk away, and the British Library of Political and Economic Science at the London School of Economics, which is also walkable from Birkbeck.

Birkbeck makes all reasonable efforts to deliver educational services, modules and programmes of study as described on our website. In the event that there are material changes to our offering (for example, due to matters beyond our control), we will update applicant and student facing information as quickly as possible and offer alternatives to applicants, offer-holders and current students.

Entry Requirements

A second-class honours degree (2:2) or above in any subject; prior exposure to at least one of the three component subjects would be a distinct advantage, but it might be possible for able students to acquire the relevant knowledge as part of this course.

Applications are reviewed on their individual merits and your professional qualifications and/or relevant work experience will be taken into consideration positively. We actively support and encourage applications from mature learners.

On your application form, please list all your relevant qualifications and experience, including those you expect to achieve.

Apply now  to secure your place. The earlier you apply, the sooner your application can be considered and you can enrol. You do not need to have completed your current qualification to start your application.

English language requirements

If English is not your first language or you have not previously studied in English, our usual requirement is the equivalent of an International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic Test) score of 6.5, with not less than 6.0 in each of the sub-tests.

If you don't meet the minimum IELTS requirement,  we offer pre-sessional English courses and foundation programmes to help you improve your English language skills and get your place at Birkbeck.

Visit the International section of our website to find out more about our  English language entry requirements and relevant requirements by country .

Visa and funding requirements

If you are not from the UK and you do not already have residency here, you may need to apply for a visa.

The visa you apply for varies according to the length of your course:

• Courses of more than six months' duration: Student visa
• Courses of less than six months' duration: Standard Visitor visa

International students who require a Student visa should apply for our full-time courses as these qualify for Student visa sponsorship. If you are living in the UK on a Student visa, you will not be eligible to enrol as a student on Birkbeck's part-time courses (with the exception of some modules).

For full information, read our visa information for international students page .

Please also visit the international section of our website to find out more about relevant visa and funding requirements by country .

Please note students receiving US Federal Aid are only able to apply for in-person, on-campus programmes which will have no elements of online study.

Credits and accredited prior learning (APL)

If you have studied at university, you may have accumulated credits through the modules you studied. It may be possible to transfer these credits from your previous study to Birkbeck or another institution.

Politics, Philosophy and Economics MSc: 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time, on campus, starting in academic year 2024-25

Academic year 2024–25, starting october 2024.

Part-time home students: £6,075 per year Full-time home students: £12,150 per year Part-time international students : £9,915 per year Full-time international students: £19,830 per year

Students are charged a tuition fee in each year of their course. Tuition fees for students continuing on their course in following years may be subject to annual inflationary increases. For more information, please see the College Fees Policy .

If you’ve studied at Birkbeck before and successfully completed an award with us, take advantage of our Lifelong Learning Guarantee to gain a discount on the tuition fee of this course.

Discover the financial support available to you to help with your studies at Birkbeck.

International scholarships

We provide a range of scholarships for eligible international students, including our Global Future Scholarship. Discover if you are eligible for a scholarship .

At Birkbeck, most of our courses are taught in the evening and all of our teaching is designed to support students who are juggling evening study with work and other commitments. We actively encourage innovative and engaging ways of teaching, to ensure our students have the best learning experience.

Teaching may include formal lectures, seminars, and practical classes and tutorials. Formal lectures are used in most degree programmes to give an overview of a particular field of study. They aim to provide the stimulus and the starting point for deeper exploration of the subject during your own personal reading. Seminars give you the chance to explore a specific aspect of your subject in depth and to discuss and exchange ideas with fellow students. They typically require preparatory study.

In addition, you will have access to pastoral support via a named Personal Tutor.

Methods of teaching on this course

Lectures, guided reading and small-group seminars. You will also have one-to-one dissertation supervisions and intensive training in academic writing.

Teaching hours

Our evening hours are normally between 6pm and 9pm (6-7.30pm and 7.30-9pm). Some programmes also offer teaching during the day and this will be clearly signposted to you where it is available.

On our taught courses, you will have scheduled teaching and study sessions each year. Scheduled teaching sessions may include lectures, seminars, workshops or laboratory work. Depending on the modules you take, you may also have additional scheduled academic activities, such as tutorials, dissertation supervision, practical classes, visits and field trips. On our taught courses, the actual amount of time you spend in the classroom and in contact with your lecturers will depend on your course, the option modules you select and when you undertake your final-year project (if applicable).

Alongside your contact hours, you will also undertake assessment activities and independent learning outside of class. The amount of time you need to allocate to study both for taught sessions (this might include online sessions and/or in-person sessions) and personal study will depend on how much you are studying during the year and whether you are studying full time or part time.

Birkbeck’s courses are made up of modules and allocated ‘credit’. One credit is equivalent to ten hours of learning time. Modules are usually in 15, 30 or 60 credit units. A 15-credit module will mean around 150 hours of learning, including taught sessions and independent study or group work. This is spread out over the whole period of that module and includes the time you spend on any assessments, including in examinations, preparing and writing assessments or engaged in practical work as well as any study support sessions to help you in your learning.

On our distance-learning and blended-learning courses, discussion, collaboration and interaction with your lecturers and fellow students is encouraged and enabled through various learning technologies.

Timetables are usually available from September onwards and you can access your personalised timetable via your My Birkbeck Profile online (if you have been invited to enrol).

Indicative class size

Class sizes vary, depending on your course, the module you are undertaking, and the method of teaching. For example, lectures are presented to larger groups, whereas seminars usually consist of small, interactive groups led by a tutor.

Independent learning

On our taught courses, much of your time outside of class will be spent on self-directed, independent learning, including preparing for classes and following up afterwards. This will usually include, but is not limited to, reading books and journal articles, undertaking research, working on coursework and assignments, and preparing for presentations and assessments.

Independent learning is absolutely vital to your success as a student. Everyone is different, and the study time required varies topic by topic, but, as a guide, expect to schedule up to five hours of self-study for each hour of teaching.

Study skills and additional support

Birkbeck offers study and learning support to undergraduate and postgraduate students to help them succeed. Our Learning Development Service can help you in the following areas:

• academic skills (including planning your workload, research, writing, exam preparation and writing a dissertation)
• written English (including structure, punctuation and grammar)
• numerical skills (basic mathematics and statistics).

Our Disability and Dyslexia Service can support you if you have additional learning needs resulting from a disability or from dyslexia.

Our Counselling Service can support you if you are struggling with emotional or psychological difficulties during your studies.

Our Mental Health Advisory Service can support you if you are experiencing short- or long-term mental health difficulties during your studies.

Assessment is an integral part of your university studies and usually consists of a combination of coursework and examinations, although this will vary from course to course - on some of our courses, assessment is entirely by coursework. The methods of assessment on this course are specified below under 'Methods of assessment on this course'. You will need to allow time to complete coursework and prepare for exams.

Where a course has unseen written examinations, these may be held termly, but, on the majority of our courses, exams are usually taken in the Summer term, during May to June. Exams may be held at other times of the year as well. In most cases, exams are held during the day on a weekday - if you have daytime commitments, you will need to make arrangements for daytime attendance - but some exams are held in the evening. Exam timetables are published online.

Find out more about assessment at Birkbeck, including guidance on assessment, feedback and our assessment offences policy.

Methods of assessment on this course

Essays, or examinations supplemented with coursework assignments.

Careers and employability

Graduates can pursue career paths in:

• the Civil Service
• international development
• think tanks. 

We offer a comprehensive careers service - Careers and Enterprise - your career partner during your time at Birkbeck and beyond. At every stage of your career journey, we empower you to take ownership of your future, helping you to make the connection between your experience, education and future ambitions.

You apply directly to Birkbeck for this course, using the online application link.

You will need to prove your identity when you apply - read more about suitable forms of identification .

When to apply

You are strongly advised to apply now, to ensure there are still places on your chosen course and to give you enough time to complete the admissions process, to arrange funding and to enrol.

You don't need to complete your current programme of study before you apply - Birkbeck can offer you a place that is conditional on your results.

You will also receive information about subject-specific induction sessions over the summer.

Help and advice with your application

Get all the information you need about the application, admission and enrolment process at Birkbeck.

Our online personal statement tool will guide you through every step of writing the personal statement part of your application.

Apply for your course

Apply for your course using the apply now button in the key information section .

Related courses

• Philosophy (MA, MRes, PG Cert, PG Dip)

Course structure

Course structure listing, course structure and modules for politics, philosophy and economics msc: 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time, on campus, starting october 2024.

You complete modules worth a total of 180 credits comprising:

• one compulsory module in economics (30 credits)
• one option module in politics (30 credits)
• one option module in philosophy (30 credits)
• one option module chosen from politics, philosophy or economics (30 credits)
• a 12,000-15,000-word dissertation due in September (60 credits).

Compulsory module

• Economics: Theory, Policy and Institutions

Politics option modules

• Emerging Powers in World Politics
• Food, Politics, and Society (Level 7)
• Global Politics, Governance and Security
• International Political Economy
• Middle East Politics
• Modern British Politics
• Nationalism and Ethno-Religious Conflict
• Political Communication and Citizen Engagement in a Digital World
• Political Theory and Contemporary Politics
• Public Policy: Interests, Ideas, Institutions
• The European Union: Integration, Politics and Policy
• The Geopolitics of Environment and Resources
• The Politics of Population Change: Immigration, Ageing and Conflict

Philosophy option modules

• Contemporary Epistemology (Level 7)
• Ethical Traditions (Level 7)
• Evolution, Science and Morality (Level 7)
• Free Will and Moral Responsibility (Level 7)
• Language and Metaphysics (Level 7)
• Metaphysical Traditions, Ancient and Modern (Level 7)
• Philosophy of Mind and Cognitive Science (Level 7)
• Philosophy of Science (Level 7)
• Philosophy, Art and Literature (Level 7)
• Philosophy, Business and Society (Level 7)
• Political Philosophy (Level 7)
• The Biology of Evil (Level 7)
• The Ethics of Life and Death: Humans, Animals and the Environment (Level 7)
• The Idea of Freedom (Level 7)
• The Philosophy of Nietzsche (Level 7)
• Themes in Twentieth-Century French and German Philosophy (Level 7)
• Theories of Value: Aesthetics and Ethics (Level 7)
• Topics in Early Modern Philosophy (Level 7)
• Women in Philosophy (Level 7)

Economics option modules

• Economics of Public Policy
• Financial Markets, Banking and Regulation
• Industrial Economics I
• International Economics I
• Monetary Economics
• Topics in Economic Policy

MSc PPE Dissertation (choose one)

• Dissertation MSc PPE
• Dissertation MSc PPE Philosophy
• Dissertation MSc PPE Politics

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• Diversity and inclusion
• Undergraduate
• Postgraduate
• PhD research
• Research Centres and Groups

Our connections

• International profile
• Student societies

PhD Research

We are the only dedicated Department of Political Economy in the UK, with a large faculty of over 70 staff who research and teach at the intersections of politics, economics and philosophy. We welcome Postgraduate Research students interested in undertaking doctoral research in our unique interdisciplinary environment. Within our programmes students have the opportunity to study both theoretical and empirical topics, using a wide range of quantitative and qualitative research methods.

You can also find information on the main King's website regarding  fees and funding  for postgraduate programmes. The main funding scheme is the LISS DTP studentship, find out more  here .

Please visit King's Centre for Doctoral Studies to find out more about our postgraduate training facilities. If you have any questions, visit our  FAQ page . 

The Department of Political Economy offers four PhD programmes:

Political Economy Research, option of joint PhD with NUS

MPhil or PhD Political Economy Research in the Department with Political Economy, with the option of a join PhD with NUS, at King's College London.

View course

Politics and Contemporary History

MPhil/PhD Contemporary History at King's College London.

Politics Research

MPhil/PhD in Politics Research in Department of Political Economy at King's College London.

Public Policy Research

MPhil/PhD Public Policy Research at King's College London.

How to apply

Step 1: identify supervisor(s)  .

Before applying for a PhD with the Department of Political Economy, you will need to consider potential supervisors for your project, since all PhD students will generally have both a primary and secondary supervisor. To identify prospective supervisors, you can examine the department’s  academic profiles , which contain more information on the supervisory interests of our academic staff. 

You might also wish to examine our  research groups  to narrow down which staff are likely to be most suitable. Note that each PhD student is requested to join at least one research group, and joining multiple research groups is encouraged. There are ten main research groups within the department:

• Public Policy and Regulation  for those who wish to conduct research on policy and regulatory responses to important political, social and economic issues, and (individual-level) responses to these policies;
• Quantitative Political Economy  for those interest in researching politics and/or public policy using quantitative methods;
• Political Theory  for those who want to write a thesis in political philosophy, the history of political ideas, or related fields;
• Political Economy of Peace and Security  for those interested in the dynamics of armed conflict, political violence, and peace and development;
• Politics, Philosophy and Economics  for those interested in interdisciplinary questions spanning these three disciplines;
• Comparative Politics  for those who wish to research political institutions, representation and regimes;
• Global South  for those interested in global political and economic trends, south-south comparisons, and political and economic developments in Africa, Latin America, the Middle East and Asia;
• Environment and Public Policy for those interested in on environmental issues and the energy transition.
• History and Political Economy  for those who use the interpretative methods of political economy to conduct historical enquiry, and/or work on historical material to investigate political economy questions
• British Politics and Government  for those interested in historical or contemporary developments in politics and economics within the UK. 

If, after looking at the groups, you are still not sure which supervisor fits your research interest you can contact the PhD Director,  Dr Rubén Ruiz-Rufino .  

Step 2: Contact Potential Supervisor(s)  

It is important to contact a prospective primary supervisor(s) prior to making an application to King’s, to see if they are available and interested in supervising your proposed research. In general, supervisors will want to see your CV and a draft of your research proposal (see below) to help them decide if they are a good fit for your proposed research. 

You do not need to secure a secondary supervisor’s support prior to making an application to King's, but you should explicitly nominate one or more potential primary/secondary supervisors in your application (there is a space on the application form for this, and you can also list them in your research proposal). You can contact prospective secondary supervisors in advance if you wish.

Most of our PhD students have both their primary and secondary supervisor based within the Department of Political Economy. However, it is possible for one of the two supervisors to be based in another department at King’s College London.

Note that a supervisor expressing an interest in supervising your PhD is only provisional and is not itself sufficient to ensure your acceptance onto the PhD programme.  

Step 3: Finalise Proposal and Other Application Materials  

You can begin by creating an account and application on the King's Apply registration page . Your application will need to include the following items. 

• A research proposal of up to 3,000 words, which does not include references/bibliography (appendices and substantive footnotes do count towards the word limit). There are many ways of structuring proposals but in one way or another your proposal should cover the following things:  a)what you want to study; b) why it matters; c)how you want to study including (where relevant) theoretical framework, methodology/methods, case selection, dependent and independent variables etc;  d) how other people have studied it and how your approach differs. Please note, in this department we often ask for revisions to the proposal at the application stage.
• A personal statement of up to 1,000 words: This should explain your motivation for undertaking the PhD, and specify how you see it fitting into your broader life and career plans. You should also explain why the Department of Political Economy at King’s College London is the right place to conduct your proposed research.
• Two supportive references: These should ideally both be academic, with at least one from a scholar who taught you on your Master's (your referees will be contacted by King's and asked to submit a reference electronically).
• One or two samples of your written work: We would generally expect these to total between 5,000 and 10,000 words (e.g. two 2,500 word essays or one 10,000 word Masters dissertation would both be appropriate submissions of written work). You do not have to submit the original form of these samples of work (for example, if you submit an assessed essay from your Master’s degree, you could edit it further prior to including it on your application). These samples must be entirely your own work.
• An up-to-date CV/resume: This should normally be no more than three pages, and include clear information on your educational qualifications and employment history.
• A summary and/or transcript(s) of your academic performance so far (e.g 2:1 from Warwick in Economics, MA in Democracy and Governance from Georgetown with a GPA of 3.865).  

Make sure to also nominate your intended primary supervisor as part of the application form, and list any other potential supervisors, or staff you wish to work with, as part of your Research Proposal.  

Step 4: Submit  

Once your application form on the King's Apply registration page is complete, and all the required documents listed above attached, you can submit your application.

Our student community

We have a vibrant community of students drawn from many different countries. Recent graduates have gone on to postdoctoral positions at New York University, Brown University, the European University Institute, and the University of Birmingham; and to teaching positions at the University of Buckingham, Utica College (USA) and here at King’s College London.

• Hear from our students about what it's like to join the Department of Political Economy for PhD research

News & Events from the Department of Political Economy

8 March 2024

New head of department announced

The new head of the Department of Political Economy has been announced.

Experts examine the role of women in elections around the world this year

To mark International Women’s Day, the Faculty of Social Science & Public Policy hosted a panel…

4 March 2024

Call for papers issued ahead of fifth annual workshop

A call for papers has been issued ahead of the fifth annual Economics and Politics of Migration…

South African Elections

04 April 2024

In this bumper year of elections, one of the most significant in Africa will be in South Africa.

Philosophy, Politics and Economics

• Admissions Requirements
• Fees and Funding
• Studying at Oxford

Course overview

UCAS code: L0v0 Entrance requirements: AAA Course duration: 3 years (BA)

Subject requirements

Required subjects: Not applicable Recommended subjects: Maths Helpful subjects: History

Other course requirements

Admissions tests:  TSA Written Work: None

Admissions statistics*

Interviewed: 35% Successful: 11% Intake: 232 *3-year average 2021-23

Tel: +44 (0) 1865 288564 Email:  [email protected]

Unistats information for this course can be found at the bottom of the page

Please note that there may be no data available if the number of course participants is very small.

About the course

Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) arose from the belief that the advanced study of all three subjects would transform students’ intellectual lives, to great social benefit. This conviction remains as firm today as it was then. As the world has evolved, so has PPE. The course brings together some of the most important approaches to understanding the world around us, developing skills useful for a wide range of careers and activities.

PPE is a highly flexible degree which allows you to shape your own path through it. You may choose to specialise in two branches at the end of the first year, or continue with all three. You can also explore a wide variety of disciplines under the overarching headings of Philosophy, Politics and Economics. For example, you can specialise in Sociology or International Relations by choosing the relevant Politics options. 

The three subjects each make a distinctively valuable contribution to the degree. Studying philosophy develops analytical, critical, and logical rigour – a highly transferable skill – through discussion of deep, puzzling questions such as 'what can we (really) know?' and 'why be moral?' that are fascinating in their own right.

In turn, the study of politics provides a thorough understanding of the impact of political institutions on modern societies. It helps you to evaluate the choices that political systems must regularly make, to explain the processes that maintain or change those systems, and to examine the concepts and values used in political analysis.

Economics is the study of how consumers, firms and government make decisions that collectively determine how resources are allocated. An appreciation of economics has become increasingly necessary to make sense of governmental policy-making, the conduct of businesses and the enormous economic transformations throughout the world. 

All three branches of PPE at Oxford have an international reputation, supported by more than 200 renowned scholars. 

Astrophoria Foundation Year

If you’re interested in studying PPE but your personal or educational circumstances have meant you are unlikely to achieve the grades typically required for Oxford courses, then choosing to apply for PPE with a Foundation Year might be right for you.

Visit our Foundation Year course pages for more details. 

Unistats information

Discover Uni  course data provides applicants with Unistats statistics about undergraduate life at Oxford for a particular undergraduate course.

Please select 'see course data' to view the full Unistats data for PPE. 

Please note that there may be no data available if the number of course participants is very small. 

Visit the Studying at Oxford section of this page for a more general insight into what studying here is likely to be like.

A typical week

Your weekly timetable will usually include six to eight lectures and two to three tutorials and classes, supplemented by private study, which will be mainly spent preparing essays or problem sets for tutorials and classes.

Tutorials typically involve two to four students and a tutor. Class sizes may vary depending on the options you choose.

Teaching in all three PPE subjects is normally done in tutorials rather than classes. Where a class does form part of the teaching for a paper, it will typically include around six to ten students, although one computer-based training course in Politics may have up to 24 students in it. 

Most tutorials, classes, and lectures are delivered by staff who are specialists in their subject. Many are world-leading experts with years of experience in teaching and research. Some teaching may also be delivered by postgraduate students, typically doctoral students who are also expert in the relevant field.

To find out more about how our teaching year is structured, visit our  Academic Year  page.

Course structure

Years 2 and 3.

The content and format of this course may change in some circumstances. Read further information about potential course changes .

Academic requirements 

Wherever possible, your grades are considered in the context in which they have been achieved.

View further information on  how we use contextual data .

* Although a background in Mathematics is not an essential requirement for admission, it is recommended, and   PPE applicants should have sufficient interest in, and aptitude for, mathematics to cope with the mathematical elements of the course. Mathematics is a particular advantage for the Economics component of the course, as well as for the first year logic course in philosophy, and for understanding theories and data in politics. It is recommended to have learnt the basics of differentiation before starting your university course in PPE. Many successful applicants have studied Maths to at least AS-level, or another equivalent.

You may like to consider taking Maths to AS-level, or an equivalent qualification such as IB Standard Level, even if you do not pursue it further. However, we do understand that these qualifications may not be available to all students.

Extra tuition will be available to students that have not studied Maths A-Level who require any assistance. View the  PPE admissions statistics  for information on the success rates for applicants applying with different A-level subjects.

If a practical component forms part of any of your science A‐levels used to meet your offer, we expect you to pass it.

If English is not your first language you may also need to meet our English language requirements .

If your personal or educational circumstances have meant you are unlikely to achieve the grades listed above for undergraduate study, but you still have a strong interest in the subject, then applying for PPE with a Foundation Year might be right for you.

Visit the Foundation Year course pages for more details of academic requirements and eligibility.

Admissions tests

All candidates must take the paper-based Thinking Skills Assessment (TSA) as part of the application. 

Guidance on how to prepare can be found on the  TSA page . 

New arrangements for 2024 admissions tests and beyond are still to be confirmed but will be communicated as soon as possible and no later than the start of the new admissions cycle in early Spring. 

Written work

You do not need to submit any written work when you apply for this course.

What are tutors looking for?

Admissions tutors will want to find out if you can think clearly and analytically. They are less concerned with what you know than with how you think and use your knowledge. They will seek evidence of interest in all three subjects. 

Visit the PPE website for more detail on the selection criteria for this course.

Many PPE graduates go on to further academic study. The careers most commonly chosen by PPE graduates are in:

• banking and finance
• broadcasting and new media
• political activism and campaigning
• social work
• voluntary organisations and charities
• accountancy
• business management
• management consultancy
• advertising
• university teaching and research
• think tanks and consultancy
• work in international organisations
• and the many branches of public service.

Ella was managing director of Abel & Cole, the organic food retailer. She says:

'I first saw a video of the Amazon rainforest burning when I was at school in the early 1990s. From that moment, I urgently wanted to protect the natural world. I didn’t know how, though. PPE was invaluable in helping me understand how economic and political systems work, and how they drive such damage to nature. PPE also gave me confidence to evaluate solutions to these problems, and to articulate my responses. The degree gave me credibility when I was starting out, and it helped me navigate my way to a constructive career. I feel proud of what I achieved at Abel & Cole. I’m sorry to say that the Amazon is still burning, though, and that there is a great deal more work to be done.'

Rayan went on to pupillage at a leading barristers’ chambers in London. He says:

'PPE encouraged me, more than anything else, to think critically about the social world and our place in it. It taught me how to test and challenge arguments and disentangle their constituent parts. That experience has been crucial to my pursuing a career as a barrister. First, because the philosophical skills that I acquired have proven invaluable in thinking about, developing, and challenging legal arguments in practice. And second, because it's helped me to continuously reflect upon the social impact of the law and its relationship with political power.'

Note: These annual fees are for full-time students who begin this undergraduate course here in 2024. Course fee information for courses starting in 2025 will be updated in September.

We don't want anyone who has the academic ability to get a place to study here to be held back by their financial circumstances. To meet that aim, Oxford offers one of the most generous financial support packages available for UK students and this may be supplemented by support from your college.

Further details about fee status eligibility can be found on the fee status webpage.

For more information please refer to our  course fees page . Fees will usually increase annually. For details, please see our  guidance on likely increases to fees and charges.

Living costs

Living costs at Oxford might be less than you’d expect, as our  world-class resources and college provision can help keep costs down.

Living costs for the academic year starting in 2024 are estimated to be between £1,345 and £1,955 for each month you are in Oxford. Our academic year is made up of three eight-week terms, so you would not usually need to be in Oxford for much more than six months of the year but may wish to budget over a nine-month period to ensure you also have sufficient funds during the holidays to meet essential costs. For further details please visit our  living costs webpage .

• Financial support

**If you have studied at undergraduate level before and completed your course, you will be classed as an Equivalent or Lower Qualification student (ELQ) and won’t be eligible to receive government or Oxford funding

Fees, Funding and Scholarship search

Additional Fees and Charges Information for Philosophy, Politics and Economics

There are no compulsory costs for this course beyond the fees shown above and your living costs.

Contextual information

Unistats course data from Discover Uni provides applicants with statistics about a particular undergraduate course at Oxford. For a more holistic insight into what studying your chosen course here is likely to be like, we would encourage you to view the information below as well as to explore our website more widely.

The Oxford tutorial

College tutorials are central to teaching at Oxford. Typically, they take place in your college and are led by your academic tutor(s) who teach as well as do their own research. Students will also receive teaching in a variety of other ways, depending on the course. This will include lectures and classes, and may include laboratory work and fieldwork. However, tutorials offer a level of personalised attention from academic experts unavailable at most universities.

During tutorials (normally lasting an hour), college subject tutors will give you and one or two tutorial partners feedback on prepared work and cover a topic in depth. The other student(s) in your tutorials will be doing the same course as you. Such regular and rigorous academic discussion develops and facilitates learning in a way that isn’t possible through lectures alone. Tutorials also allow for close progress monitoring so tutors can quickly provide additional support if necessary.

Read more about tutorials and an Oxford education

College life

Our colleges are at the heart of Oxford’s reputation as one of the best universities in the world.

• At Oxford, everyone is a member of a college as well as their subject department(s) and the University. Students therefore have both the benefits of belonging to a large, renowned institution and to a small and friendly academic community. Each college or hall is made up of academic and support staff, and students. Colleges provide a safe, supportive environment leaving you free to focus on your studies, enjoy time with friends and make the most of the huge variety of opportunities.
• Porters’ lodge (a staffed entrance and reception)
• Dining hall
• Lending library (often open 24/7 in term time)
• Student accommodation
• Tutors’ teaching rooms
• Chapel and/or music rooms
• Green spaces
• Common room (known as the JCR).
• All first-year students are offered college accommodation either on the main site of their college or in a nearby college annexe. This means that your neighbours will also be ‘freshers’ and new to life at Oxford. This accommodation is guaranteed, so you don’t need to worry about finding somewhere to live after accepting a place here, all of this is organised for you before you arrive.
• All colleges offer at least one further year of accommodation and some offer it for the entire duration of your degree. You may choose to take up the option to live in your college for the whole of your time at Oxford, or you might decide to arrange your own accommodation after your first year – perhaps because you want to live with friends from other colleges.
• While college academic tutors primarily support your academic development, you can also ask their advice on other things. Lots of other college staff including welfare officers help students settle in and are available to offer guidance on practical or health matters. Current students also actively support students in earlier years, sometimes as part of a college ‘family’ or as peer supporters trained by the University’s Counselling Service.

Read more about Oxford colleges and how you choose

FIND OUT MORE

• Visit the PPE website
• Visit the Philosophy Faculty's website
• Visit the Politics Department's website
• Visit the Economics Department's website

Our 2024 undergraduate open days will be held on 26 and 27 June and 20 September.

Register to find out more about our upcoming open days.

RELATED PAGES

• Which Oxford colleges offer my course?
• Your academic year
• Foundation Year

RELATED COURSES

• Economics and Management
• Foundation Year (PPE)
• History and Economics
• History and Politics
• Human Sciences
• Philosophy and Modern Languages
• Philosophy and Theology

Feel inspired?

You might like to read some of the following sources:

Thomas Nagel’s  What Does it all Mean? and Jennifer Nagel’s Knowledge: A Very Short Introduction are useful introductions to Philosophy.

Jonathan Wolff’s An Introduction to Political Philosophy , the Palgrave Macmillan series Developments in British [French, German, East European, etc.]  Politics and Adrian Leftwich’s What is Politics? are good introductory texts for Politics.

The best introduction to Economics is to read the economics and business pages of newspapers.

Tim Harford’s Undercover Economist and Paul Krugman’s The Accidental Theorist are also recommended.

Follow us on social media

Follow us on social media to get the most up-to-date application information throughout the year, and to hear from our students.

Center for Philosophy, Politics, and Economics

Political economy.

The Political Economy and Institutions research cluster examines the interplay between politics and economics. It is a field of study that focuses on the ways in which political institutions, policies, culture, and geography interact in shaping the observed variation in economic and political outcomes across the globe. Shedding light on how legacies of the past shape contemporary economic, cultural, and political institutions can help us better understand the forces that generate persistence and as well the catalysts for change. Scholars working within political economy often also take into account the distribution of power and resources within a society and how these factors shape various institutions. 

Robert Blair

Donghyun Danny Choi

Pedro Dal Bó

Gemma Dipoppa

Brian Knight

Stelios Michalopoulos

David Skarbek

PPE Workshop - Eduardo Montero (Chicago, Public Policy)

February 7, 2024 at 25 George Street

PPE Workshop - Alexandra Cirone (Cornell, Political Science)

February 21, 2024 at 25 George Street Providence RI

Related Courses

Will examine relationships and interactions among institutions, criminal actors, and violence. State-based institutions play an important role in explaining the level of disorganized or organized crime. Organized crime groups, in turn, influence both state-based institutions (for example, through corrupting officials) and other criminal activity, often by creating the “rules of the game” by which other criminals can act. Finally, both state-based and criminal actors and institutions influence the level of violence in society. Each of these three influences, and is influenced by, the others. This course offers the opportunity to better understand how these three factors relate to each other.

This interdisciplinary course provides an overview of some of the core conceptual tools used to analyze issues at the intersection of philosophy, politics, and economics (PPE). A range of theoretical topics are covered, including: game theory, property, markets, distributive justice, public choice theory, voting, and more. We will read classical and contemporary sources on these topics as well as explore their applications to contemporary social problems (including: climate change, healthcare rationing, price gouging, universal basic income, pharmaceutical regulations, and others).

Why are some societies rich and others poor? While typical answers emphasize proximate causes like factor accumulation, technological progress, and demographic change, weighing the shadow of history on contemporary economic performance occupies an increasing part of the agenda among growth and development economists. This course will critically survey the recent empirical literature highlighting the role of historical events and geographic endowments in shaping social, political, and cultural factors and the process of development.

Weighing the shadow of history on contemporary economic performance occupies an increasing part of the agenda among growth and development economists. This course will focus on recent contributions in the literature of the historical determinants of comparative development paying particular attention on how to integrate the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in the research inquiry. The goal is to get you thinking about the big historical processes that have shaped the modern world. We will go over background concepts, critically review recent works and talk about new research designs, like that of spatial regression discontinuity.

This course is designed to provide students with an overview of major theories and empirical approaches to the study of identity politics. Throughout the semester we will read a combination of the classics and cutting-edge research in political science, economics, psychology, exploring a range of topics with implications for politics and societies around the world. These topics include: how identity should be conceptualized and measured; why some forms of identity are activated, mobilized, and contested; how identities are represented politically; how racial and ethnic identities intersect with other salient identities; how social diversity and civil society are interrelated; what factors affect the integration of immigrants; and which varieties of democracy enable the flourishing of plural identities. Readings for these topics will focus on the United States and the other parts of the world, including Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.

A theoretical and empirical examination of economic growth and income differences among countries. Focuses on both the historical experience of countries that are currently rich and the process of catch-up among poor countries. Topics include population growth, accumulation of physical and human capital, technological change, natural resources, income distribution, geography, government, and culture.

Featured Research

Religion and educational mobility in africa.

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M.A. in Philosophy, Political Science and Economics (PPE)

The M.A. program in Philosophy, Political Science and Economics (PPE) provides students with a broad yet thorough education in its three constitutive fields. The objective of the program is to train students to evaluate critically individual and collective decision-making and public policy. The study of Philosophy equips students with tools to reason rigorously and facilitates ethical reflection. The study of Economics provides tools for evaluating individual and collective decision-making. And the study of Political Science provides an understanding of the real contexts in which ethical and economic principles must be applied. Thus, the three disciplines that make up PPE are mutually supportive, and a background in each is needed if one is to gain a robust understanding of social phenomena. The 4+1 M.A. in PPE may be of considerable interest to students who would like to pursue further study in ethics, logic, decision-making, or public policy. The program is also excellent preparation for students considering law school. A full description of the program, with relevant application information, can be found on the Graduate Program webpage of the Department of Logic and Philosophy of Science.

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PhD in Political Economy & Government

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Beginning in Fall 2022, the PhD in Political Economy and Government (PEG) will no longer be admitting students.  Students may apply to the PhD program in Public Policy (PPOL) , or consider the PhD Programs in the Economics Department or the PhD Program in Government . 

The PEG program will continue with the outlined course requirements for students who matriculated in Fall 2021. HKS will continue to fully fund and support all current PEG students until they have completed the program and graduated. However, going forward, prospective students will no longer be able to apply to or be admitted to the PEG program.

As of Fall 2021, prospective students interested in focusing on an economics or political science perspective of political economy are encouraged to apply to the PhD programs offered by the Department of Economics and the Department of Government at the  Graduate School of Arts and Sciences or the newly created PhD program in Public Policy (PPOL) tracks: Economics and Politics and Institutions (Political Science) . 

History of the PhD in Political Economy and Government

Dating to the 1930s, the PhD Program in Political Economy and Government (PEG) was initiated with the objective of fostering research at the intersection of Economics and Political Science. A collaborative program between Harvard Kennedy School, the Department of Economics, and the Department of Government, PEG emphasized positive—as opposed to normative—political economy. The PEG program combines rigorous training in economics, formal theory, and quantitative empirical methods with a substantive focus on the interaction between economic and political institutions and processes. Students combine coursework from the Department of Economics  and the Department of Government for an interdisciplinary program of study.

Students and faculty members in the PEG program share an intellectual interest in the impact of politics on economic processes and outcomes, and the reciprocal influence of economic conditions on political life. It covers research areas as diverse as international economic relations, financial economics, political development, political and economic institutions, institutional transition and reform, the economic importance of culture, economic performance, environmental resource policies, and social policy.

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Politics, Philosophy, and Economics Interdisciplinary Degree

The Politics, Philosophy, and Economics (PPE) major at Northeastern University brings together three of the most important approaches to understanding the world around us: political science, philosophy, and economics.

The PPE major is an interdisciplinary degree that not only provides students with the analytic tools from three different disciplines but also teaches students to make connections across disciplines and to keep multiple perspectives in mind when analyzing complex social phenomena. This interdisciplinary perspective and set of skills are indispensable in our increasingly interconnected world and are essential in addressing the kinds of complex global problems future leaders will need to tackle.

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Philosophy, Politics and Economics

How shall we govern ourselves, deal with one another and value the planet’s resources? How will we resolve disparities between the haves and the have nots? In our interconnected yet divided world, these are critical issues. Philosophy, politics and economics is an interdisciplinary program bringing together faculty from politics, business and religious studies to examine the way the world works.

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About the Philosophy, Politics and Economics Major

In Carroll University’s philosophy, politics and economics program, you’ll explore contemporary questions about wealth and poverty, the market economy and the relationship between the economic, political and legal orders in the context of philosophy, political science and economics.

In philosophy, you’ll learn the ideas and theories that shaped society and culture, and practice the intellectual tools needed for ethical reflection. In politics, you’ll learn the variety of political structures that govern society and the complexities involved in political choices. And in economics, you’ll learn about market forces and the social issues related to economic trends and decision-making.

Your main course of study will include core classes in the history and principles of philosophy, political theory, government structures and policy, macro and microeconomics and economic history. You’ll be encouraged to seek internships related to your career goals and have opportunities for international study to broaden your perspective and obtain real-world experiences. And in your final year, you’ll undertake a senior research project designed and completed under the individual supervision of a faculty mentor that will integrate your learning in all three fields.

You’ll emerge with a deeper understanding of how people shape societies, govern themselves and determine their values. An education in this program will prepare you for law school, numerous graduate programs or for careers in fields such as foreign service, politics, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), journalism or international business.

In addition to the major, Carroll offers a minor in philosophy that complements many areas of study:

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College is a big investment in a bright future. Learn more about the industries and careers our majors pursue, and the workplaces and experiences of the alumni from our program. See where yours may take you.

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• Philosophy, Politics and Economics

Become an intellectual powerhouse. Major in PPE at ONU. We’ve fused three foundational disciplines – philosophy, political science and economics - into one exceptional major. You’ll graduate with unique insight into the human experience and the political and economic structures that shape our world.

• Programs of Study

Our PPE program exposes you to many different professors and courses. In your philosophy coursework, you’ll explore the big questions of life and learn to think deeply. In your political science courses, you’ll learn how political systems operate in the U.S. and abroad. Finally, in your economic courses – delivered through the Dicke College of Business Administration – you’ll analyze the market forces that impact social issues.

Although you’ll study three subjects, you’ll still graduate in four years. Guaranteed. In fact, if you can’t complete the program in four years through no fault of your own – we’ll pick up the tab for the rest. 

Be prepared to learn just as much outside the classroom as you do inside. You’ll have lots of opportunities to read, write, solve problems, communicate complex ideas, and make informed and ethical decisions. You’ll graduate with a flexible skillset that will stand out in the marketplace.

Large institutions just can’t provide the individualized attention and opportunity you’ll find here. You could serve in student government or co-author research papers with your professors. You could study abroad, attend the Republican or Democratic National Convention, or spend a summer interning in Washington, D.C. You could head up a student organization or honorary society, play on a sports team, or perform with music groups.

At ONU, you’ll enjoy small class sizes and amazing friendships with your classmates. Our dedicated and distinguished professors will get to know you. They will support you in your coursework, research, internships, and post-graduate or career preparations. They will become personally invested in your success and open doors for you.

Our PPE program prepares you for three distinct paths: law school; a career in the public, nonprofit or private industry sector; or graduate school. Whichever path you choose, you’ll be ready!

COURSES, CURRICULUM & PROGRAM RESOURCES

The PPE major requires you to take courses from three disciplines. Take classes like: Introduction to American Politics, Introduction to International Relations, Philosophy of Law, Microeconomic Foundations for Business Planning, and Managerial Economics.

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Ignite your Passion

Find an internship you’ll love.

We’ll connect you with strategic internships for you future. Our professors have national and international connections that lead to cool opportunities.

Get involved and go places

If you’re ready to take learning beyond the classroom, you’ve come to the right place. PPE majors have opportunities for research, study abroad, student organizations and more.

Northern Pollsters

Gain firsthand experience in the art and science of political polling. The Northern Poll gauges citizen perceptions and policy positions, giving students the chance to learn about the polling process, how to draft and organize questions, and how to review and report results. Recently, ONU political science students conducted a poll on the 2020 Presidential election, and their results were covered in The Columbus Dispatch, The Dayton Daily News, the Lima News and radio stations in Toledo and Cincinnati.

Gain perspective on the U.S. justice system by participating in Mock Trial. You’ll develop research and communication skills and prepare for law school. Each year, we send ONU teams to the American Mock Trial Association’s intercollegiate mock trial competitions. Each team prepares either a civil or criminal case for litigation before a panel of two or three judges. With the resources of our Pettit College of Law, our Mock Trial teams receive excellent preparation and they excel at these competitions.

Learn about diplomacy and multiculturalism by participating in Model UN. Model UN is an academic organization that simulates the actions of the United Nations. Each year, ONU’s team attends different conferences and represents one of the countries currently recognized by the UN. Our team prepares to represent that country’s stance on real-world issues in mock committees at international competitions in Chicago and New York City in the fall and spring semesters.

The Washington Center

Find yourself in the center of activity in the nation’s capital by participating in The Washington Center (TWC) program. TWC’s goal is to be a bridge between higher education and professional careers. TWC provide opportunities to work in the heart of government, meet people from all over the world, develop professional skills, build your resume and create a network of contacts. Many ONU students find full-time employment through their TWC experiences.

Study Abroad

Expand your worldview and experience different cultures. We encourage our history majors to spend a semester or summer living, studying and traveling in another country. ONU’s extensive Study Abroad program has direct arrangements with several universities across the world. Our students have studied in Spain, South Korea, Cuba, England, Chile, France, China, Germany, Scotland, Costa Rica and Iceland.

Ethics Club

Are you ready to grapple with the biggest ethical issues of our times? If the answer is yes, the Ethics Club is for you. The club meets once a week to explore and discuss complex ethical cases and to prepare for the Intercollegiate Ethics Bowl. There are no winners or losers in its discussions, only thinkers and seekers. The atmosphere is respectful and honest. The club examines each issue from multiple viewpoints and discusses the ethical principles and values that could be applied to each case. Recent topics have included the ethical issues associated with self-driving cars, intersex athletes competing in the Olympics, the television series about teen suicide called “Thirteen Reasons Why,” and the possibility of “brain re-animation” to bring dead people back to life, among others.

Ethics Bowl

Every year, the ONU Ethics Club has the opportunity to participate in the Intercollegiate Ethics Bowl sponsored by the Association for Practical and Professional Ethics. Teams from across the U.S. and Canada participate in 11 regional competitions in the fall and winners attend nationals. During each competition, teams from different colleges must argue and defend a position on an ethical question. Questions address a wide variety of topics, from business ethics to personal relationships, social issues to political affairs.Teams are judged by how well they understand the facts of the case, articulate the ethical concerns, present an effective argument and respond to any challenges from the opposing team.

Student Organizations/Honorary Societies

Join a student organization or honorary society.  Membership opens the door to opportunities for professional development, attendance at regional and national conferences, networking and more. For example, students in the Philosophy Club meet once a week to discuss life’s deep questions. The conversations are always respectful and enlightened. The atmosphere is always relaxed, and sometimes pizza is served. The Philosophy Club gives you a chance to encounter different viewpoints and to explore what you believe and why.

End game: a fulfilling career

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Academic Catalog 2023-2024

Politics, philosophy, and economics, bs.

617.373.3636 617.373.4359 (fax)

The PPE major at Northeastern University brings together three of the most important approaches to understanding the world around us: political science, philosophy, and economics. This major is an interdisciplinary degree that not only provides students with the analytic tools from three different disciplines but also is designed to teach students to make connections across disciplines and to keep multiple perspectives in mind when analyzing complex social phenomena. This interdisciplinary perspective and set of skills are indispensable in our increasingly interconnected world and are essential in addressing the kinds of complex global problems future leaders will need to tackle.

Students may choose from several concentrations in accordance with their own backgrounds and interests. These include:

Environment and energy policy

International political economy

Law and justice

Logic and game theory

Political philosophy

Public and economic policy

Racial justice 

Complete all courses listed below unless otherwise indicated. Also complete any corequisite labs, recitations, clinicals, or tools courses where specified and complete any additional courses needed beyond specific college and major requirements to satisfy graduation credit requirements.

Universitywide Requirements

All undergraduate students are required to complete the  Universitywide Requirements .

NUpath Requirements

All undergraduate students are required to complete the  NUpath Requirements .

Politics, Philosophy, and Economics Major Requirements

Major electives, concentration.

Complete one of the following concentrations:

• Environment and Energy Policy
• International Political Economy
• Law and Justice
• Logic and Game Theory
• Political Philosophy
• Public and Economic Policy
• Racial Justice

Supporting Courses 

Major gpa/credit requirement.

Complete 68 semester hours in the major with a 3.000 GPA.

Course Distribution Requirement

Complete at least four courses in each of the following subject areas: ECON, PHIL, and POLS.

Experiential Liberal Arts

All students in this College of Social Sciences and Humanities program are required to complete the Experiential Liberal Arts Requirement .

Program Requirement

128 total semester hours required

Concentrations

Concentration in environment and energy policy, concentration in international political economy, concentration in law and justice, concentration in logic and game theory, concentration in political philosophy, concentration in public and economic policy, concentration in racial justice , sample plan of study: four years, two co-ops summer 2/fall, print options.

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ACTA Designates the Philosophy, Politics, & Economics minor program as a Hidden Gem for its Robust Liberal Arts Curriculum

By Jo Garrett

Please read the full article here .

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School of Arts & Sciences

Department of Political Science

• Undergraduate Program

Major in Politics, Philosophy, and Economics (BA)

Politics, Philosophy, and Economics (PPE) is an interdisciplinary course of study that originated at Oxford University in the 1920s. It has spread to many other universities in the United Kingdom and is increasingly popular at universities and colleges in the United States and elsewhere. The PPE major aims to provide students with the ability to apply the tools of ethical, microeconomic, and quantitative analysis to a wide array of fundamental social, political, and economic problems in the contemporary world.

For a sense of how the PPE degree is seen in the United Kingdom (and beyond) you might find this essay from The Guardian (UK) and this handful of replies to the essay helpful. Interested in the range of matters covered by PPE? Have a look at this anthology or this text . You might also want to check out the journal Politics, Philosophy and Economics , the new PPE book series at Oxford University Press, or the PPE Society page .

The Department of Political Science and the Department of Philosophy are the parent departments for the PPE major. The faculty PPE coordinator in each department is:

Political Science Professor James Johnson 312 Harkness Hall [email protected]

Philosophy Professor Rosa Terlazzo 521 Lattimore Hall [email protected]

Students who want to declare a PPE major or who are just curious about pursuing a PPE major should see Professor Terlazzo or Professor Johnson.

Requirements for the Major

Students are strongly encouraged to take three gateway courses, and they must take 12 other courses, for a total of 15 courses, achieving a minimum overall GPA of 2.0 in these courses. No course used to fulfill one component of the requirements can also be used to fulfill any other component.

Gateways (Three Courses, Strongly Recommended)

Recommended: At least one course from each of the three disciplines.

• Economics: ECON 108 Principles of Economics (Normally necessary as a prerequisite for ECON 207, which is required for the PPE major)
• Philosophy: Either PHIL 102 Introduction to Ethics or PHIL 103 Contemporary Moral Problems
• Political Science: Either PSCI 101 Introduction to Comparative Politics, PSC 104 Introduction to Political Philosophy, PSCI 105 Introduction to American Politics, or PSCI 107 Introduction to Positive Political Theory

Core Courses (Three Courses, Required)

• PSCI 287 : Theories of Political Economy
• PHIL 223: Social and Political Philosophy
• ECON 207: Intermediate Microeconomics

Analytical Methods (Two Courses, Required)

• PHIL 105: Reason and Argument
• PSCI/ECON 288 : Game Theory

Statistics (One Course, Required)

One of the following:

• PSCI 200 : Data Analysis I
• PSCI 205 : Data Analysis II
• ECON 230: Economic Statistics
• STAT 212: Applied Statistics I
• STAT 213: Probability and Mathematical Statistics

Seminar (One Course, Required)

• PPHE/PHIL/PSCI 293 : Politics, Philosophy, and Economics

Thematic Concentration (Five Courses, Required)

Choose an additional five courses in a thematic concentration, which is a set of courses tied together conceptually, oriented toward a particular problem or area of particular interest to the student. At least three of these five courses must be at the 200 level or higher. The aim of this requirement is to encourage students to focus their major in an imaginative, individualized way. Possibilities include Urban Ecologies; Sustainability – Economic and Environmental; Scientific Inquiry, Expertise and Democratic Politics; Poverty and Economic Inequality; Political-Economic Development; Personal Liberty and Public Health in a Pandemic. The range of possibilities is very wide. Students are expected to formulate the thematic concentration for their major in consultation with their major advisor.

Paper Presentation

Each student must complete a research paper for one of their theme courses and, in spring semester of their senior year, present the paper to all PPE majors and affiliated faculty. Attendance at paper presentations is required, except in extenuating circumstances. The program faculty coordinators will arrange a colloquium for this purpose.

Upper-Level Writing

Take at least two courses designated as ‘W’ courses.

Humanities or Social Sciences?

Students will designate their PPE major as either social sciences or humanities for distributional purposes. That determination will be made in consultation with their major advisor. The general rule will be that at least six of the student’s major courses would be from the relevant division—humanities or social sciences—not including PPHE/PHIL/PSCI 293 (Politics, Philosophy, and Economics), which, for the sake of this determination is assigned to neither division.  In no case can the PPE major be used to meet the natural sciences distribution requirement.

A student majoring in PPE who wishes to undertake an honors project during their senior year must do so via the established processes in either Political Science or Philosophy . This means meeting the eligibility criteria that each department has established. The expectation is that students who opt to identify their major as social sciences would pursue honors in Political Science while those who identify their major as humanities will do so in Philosophy.

Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, and Transfer Credit

Questions regarding credit for AP and IB courses and for courses transferred from other institutions will be governed by the rules established by the relevant department (Philosophy or Political Science) for their own majors. Decisions regarding such credit will be made by the program advisors. Students may be approved to use IB and AP courses or transfer courses to meet gateway recommendations, the statistics requirement, or as part of a thematic concentration. With very rare exceptions, students are not allowed to use courses transferred from other colleges or universities to replace core courses, analytical methods, or the PPE seminar. In no instance will more than three courses transferred from elsewhere (including AP and IB credit) count toward the PPE major.

Overlap Policy

PPE majors are subject to the College's "overlap policy" with respect to double majors and a major and minor. The policy applies to all students in the College. No more than three courses may overlap between any two majors, and no more than two courses may overlap between a minor and either a major or another minor. If a cross-listed course (such as PSCI/ECON 288) is listed under two majors, it counts toward the overlap limit even if it is listed under the Political Science number in one case and a cross-listed number in the other case.

PPE Undergraduate Student Ambassadorships 2024-2025

Each academic year, the Kellogg Center selects several undergraduate students to serve as ambassadors for the Center.  PPE Undergraduate Student Ambassadors  work closely with faculty and staff of the Kellogg Center, serve as student contact for PPE events and activities, and participate in the Center’s  undergraduate research journal .

Please see here for more information about the many opportunities for  student engagement  that the Center offers.

The application process for next academic year’s PPE Undergraduate Student Ambassadorships is open now. All students who are enrolled in a PPE degree program (major or minor) and do not also serve on the leadership team of the PPE Club next academic year are eligible to apply. Students must be available on the Blacksburg campus for the entire academic year, and thus not be on a semester aboard.

Please submit (i) a short personal statement that explains your interest in becoming a PPE Undergraduate Student Ambassador (including whether you are a PPE major or minor and anticipated graduation year) and (ii) your resume. The ambassadorships come with a small compensation.

Please direct any questions related to the student ambassadorships to  Holly Belcher . Application materials must be submitted to her ( hollymb2@ null vt.edu ) by March 29, 2024.

Kellogg Center for Philosophy, Politics, and Economics 820 University City Blvd (0348) Suites 2 and 3 Virginia Tech Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA

Email: [email protected]

"I'm excited to support this academic opportunity for Virginia Tech's students and scholars and look forward to seeing their impactful work." David Kellogg, Managing Director of Kellogg Capital, LLC

Two funded opportunities under Sydney-Glasgow Joint PhD program

The University of Sydney’s Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences and the University of Glasgow’s College of Social Sciences have unveiled two new joint PhD projects, providing opportunities for aspiring PhD candidates from across the world to work alongside leading research supervisors. The successful candidates will be jointly enrolled at both institutions, with Glasgow as the home institution and the University of Sydney as the host institution.

The funded Joint PhD opportunities

The health and wellbeing impacts of the energy transition for low-income renters: a comparative uk-australia study .

This project will advance understanding of the health and well-being impacts for low-income renter households of energy transition measures proposed by governments, and design solutions to redress identified adverse impacts as integral to these proposed measures while also generating co-benefits more broadly for society. It will conduct a comparative study between two locations which are increasingly experiencing extreme weather events with significant adverse population impacts and have high concentrations of low- income renter households – Glasgow, Scotland and Sydney, Australia.

Project will be co-hosted by:

• Professor Lynne Chester , School of Social and Political Sciences, University of Sydney
• Professor Gerard McCartney , School of Social and Political Sciences, University of Glasgow
• Professor Harriet Thomson , School of Social and Political Sciences, University of Glasgow
• Professor Robert McMaster , Adam Smith Business School, University of Glasgow

For more information, please visit the University of Glasgow Student Funding Opportunities page .

The Socio-Economic Impacts of Colonialisation in Australia

Since the early European settlements in the late 18th century, the economic history of Australia is very deeply linked to its colonisation. This project will create a rich dataset to measure the impact that British colonialisation had on its Australian colonies on a range of economic outcomes in the short and long run. Using British and Irish records of settlers, Australian arrival records and subsequent censuses, together with current and recent rich administrative health records and surveys, the project will:

measure the mortality, morbidity, and characteristics of settlers travelling to Australia in the short run and understand how the selection of surviving settlers still impacts the health of current Australians. 

 analyse the impact of the relative arrival of free versus convict settlers across different areas in Australian on the severity and incidence of indigenous massacres and current political views. 

• Professor Michele Battisti , Adam Smith Business School, University of Glasgow
• Dr Jordi Vidal Robert, School of Economics, University of Sydney 
• Associate Professor Marian Vidal-Fernandez , School of Economics, University of Sydney
• Professor Sayantan Ghosal , Adam Smith Business School, University of Glasgow

Award Details

The program will commence in October 2024. The funding is provided by the University of Glasgow and is available as a scholarship for the maximum of 3.25 years. The full funding package includes:

• An annual maintenance grant (stipend) at the UK Research and Innovation rate (UKRI).
• Tuition fees at the University of Glasgow (including fee-waiver at the University of Sydney).
• Successful candidates can also draw on a Research Training Support Grant, up to a maximum of approximately £940 per year.
• A one-off travel grant of up to £3,000 to facilitate the required travel between Glasgow and Sydney.

Candidates with the relevant research interests from across the world, are encouraged to apply. Applications close on 19 April 2024 .

Banner image: The University of Glasgow cloister by Adobe Stock Images.

The health and wellbeing impacts of the energy transition

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Press Releases | Civic Literacy

Acta designates the philosophy, politics, & economics minor program as a hidden gem for its robust liberal arts curriculum.

Washington, DC—The American Council of Trustees and Alumni (ACTA) is proud to designate the Philosophy, Politics, & Economics minor program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill as a Hidden Gem. ACTA’s Hidden Gems initiative shines a light on honors programs, major degree programs, minor degree programs, and certificate programs that guide students through a high-quality and coherent interdisciplinary education across the liberal arts. Philosophy, literature, politics, history, and the Great Books of Western Civilization are topics that are often focal points. The rigorous interdisciplinary PPE minor program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consists of five courses in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics, an interdisciplinary Senior Capstone, semester-long reading groups, and an active speaker series.

“The PPE Program focuses on understanding how social, political, and economic institutions, as well as considerations of justice, rights, and liberty, have, do, and should interact and shape one another. At its heart is the recognition that philosophy, political science, and economics are each individually important to understanding the world in which we live—but that bringing the three disciplines together illuminates issues that otherwise are obscured by the shadows cast by relying solely on one or the other,” says Geoffrey Sayre-McCord, founding director of the PPE program. “We are proud, to say the least, to counted among ACTA’s Hidden Gems.”

Gabriella Hsu, ACTA’s Senior Program Manager for Curricular Improvement says, “ACTA’s Hidden Gems program highlights major, minor, and certificate programs that offer students an unparalleled education in the liberal arts. Hidden Gems programs are so named for the high caliber of their faculty, thoughtfully structured curricula, and commitment both to the challenges and rewards of liberal education. Students enrolled in Hidden Gems programs are drawn into community and discussion rooted in the rich interdisciplinary study of the liberal arts and sciences. In its mission to support academic excellence, ACTA believes that the Hidden Gems program is an invaluable resource for students seeking a robust, collegial, and enriching education.”

ACTA’s Hidden Gems initiative serves as a complement to our What Will They Learn?® (WWTL) project. WWTL rates the core curriculum requirements at over 1,100 schools to determine which institutions provide a rigorous, liberal arts-oriented general education. Programs designated as Hidden Gems offer a robust liberal arts education regardless of their home institution’s core curriculum. WWTL and Hidden Gems help prospective students locate universities and programs that will prepare them for successful careers, informed citizenship, and human flourishing.

See a comprehensive list of all Hidden Gems here .

MEDIA CONTACT: Gabrielle Anglin EMAIL: [email protected]

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