BA (Hons) in Philosophy, Politics and Economics, Lancaster University

Lancaster,

36 Months

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About this course

Lancaster's BA (Hons) in Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) offers a comprehensive exploration of the fundamental ideas shaping our world today. The course combines expertise across the disciplines of Philosophy, Politics, and Economics, enabling students to analyze societal issues through multiple lenses. Students will study philosophical arguments, political structures, and economic models to develop critical reasoning, articulate communication, and analytical skills. The course is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their degree with options like internship placements, overseas study trips to countries like the US, India, or China, and the opportunity for dissertation research on diverse topics such as cryptocurrencies, sustainability, or war justification. The program also emphasizes practical experience, supporting internships and study abroad opportunities, including a potential placement or year abroad in destinations such as Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, or the USA. With a strong academic grounding and practical approach, this program prepares students for careers or further academic pursuit.

Why this course is highly recommended

Lancaster's PPE program is highly regarded due to its broad scope, combining academic excellence with practical opportunities. The university ranks well in graduate prospects and student satisfaction for Economics, reflecting its commitment to quality teaching and strong industry links. Students benefit from studying in a department that includes experts in both Western and non-Western philosophical traditions, with active research tackling global challenges like climate change, health, and conflict. The program offers internship opportunities through the Richardson Institute and overseas trips to diverse countries. The interdisciplinary nature of the degree prepares students for a wide range of careers in government, media, international development, and finance, as well as further academic study.

Specialisation

The course allows students to focus on integrating key concepts across Philosophy, Politics, and Economics, with optional modules like Asian Political Culture, Environmental Economics, International Relations, Feminist Philosophy, and more. Students can also customize their dissertation topics in their third year, with previous research including cryptocurrencies, sustainability, and the ethics of war. There is flexibility to add specific interest areas through optional modules, including themes like global religious influences, social justice, and international development, giving students a truly interdisciplinary and globally-aware education.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

26.34L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants typically need A-level grades of AAB, with additional qualifications accepted including BTEC (DDD), International Baccalaureate (35 points overall), or various Scottish Highers and Advanced Highers. Specific GCSE requirements include Mathematics grade 6/B and English Language grade 4/C. The course also requires IELTS scores of 6.5 overall with at least 5.5 in each component. The entry process considers qualifications holistically, and there are pathways like foundation programs and contextual admissions available for suitable candidates.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

Career prospects

Graduates of the PPE program develop transferable skills highly valued by employers, including critical reasoning, complex idea organization, evidence analysis, and communication. Career options include the Civil and Diplomatic Services, government roles, international charities, journalism, finance, business management, and further academic research like Master’s or PhD studies. The program's emphasis on interdisciplinary analysis and practical experience also supports careers in NGOs, international relations, consultancy, and media, providing a competitive edge in a global job market.

FAQs

Are there study abroad opportunities available?

Yes, students can apply for a year abroad in countries like Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, the Netherlands, or the USA, or opt for a placement year working with organizations such as NGOs, charities, or government bodies.

What kind of research can I do for my dissertation?

In your third year, you’ll have the opportunity to define your dissertation topic with personalized research, possibly including projects like cryptocurrencies, sustainability, or the ethics of war, supported by supervision and optional external collaborations.