Course summary

Philosophy, Politics and Economics, known as PPE, is a joint degree delivered by the department of Politics, Philosophy and Religion and the department of Economics. You will explore philosophical, economic and political ideas in relation to one another. For example, the study of Philosophy provides a historical background and gives you the opportunity to develop your critical reasoning skills and understanding, which are directly relevant to Politics and Economics. In Politics, you will examine the history and basis of political ideas and critically reflect upon the nature and activities of political institutions. You will have the chance to learn how political decisions concern, and are influenced by, economic matters. You will also critically engage with a range of economic models and theories. The first year of your degree is designed to enable you to develop a firm grounding in each of the three disciplines through the core modules: Introduction to Philosophy; Politics in the Modern World, and Principles of Economics. In your second and fourth years, you’ll develop your skills and knowledge, choosing from a range of optional modules in the three subject areas. For example: Modern Political Thought: Liberty, Theory and Practice; The Ethics of Belief and Ignorance; Managerial Economics, International Economics and Issues in Contemporary Politics and Philosophy. To prepare students for their work placement year, our Careers and Placements Team will provide advice and guidance on: the skills required to create effective CVs, cover letters and applications; tips and techniques on how to make an impact at interviews and assessment centres; how to create a relevant digital profile; and how to research employers and career sectors of interest. In addition, there is great emphasis placed upon developing self-awareness and on how to present yourself in a professional manner to employers. This optional provision will be delivered via a blend of traditional and digital methods including face-to-face workshops, online webinars, e-courses and 1:1 appointments. The University will use all reasonable effort to support you to find a suitable placement for your studies. While a placement role may not be available in a field or organisation that is directly related to your academic studies or career aspirations, all placement roles offer valuable experience of working at a graduate level and gaining a range of professional skills. If you are unsuccessful in securing a suitable placement for your third year, you will be able to transfer to the equivalent non-placement degree scheme and continue with your studies at Lancaster, finishing your degree after your third year.