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Politics, Philosophy and Economics at University of Birmingham - UCAS

Course options

Course summary

Study Politics, Philosophy and Economics (PPE) and explore the critical global challenges of our time - from climate change and inequality, to poverty and democratic decline. Gain the skills and knowledge to make a real impact in the world. By studying PPE, you will develop a broad and interdisciplinary perspective, combining analytical and critical thinking with an understanding of philosophical arguments, political institutions and economic systems. As you progress, you’ll have the freedom to specialise in areas that match your interests, from sustainability, to social justice, to global ethics or public economics, preparing you to drive meaningful change. Why study this course? Our Politics, Philosophy, and Economics (PPE) degree brings together three powerful disciplines to help you make sense of the world’s most pressing issues. You’ll explore how governments make decisions, how economies function, and how philosophical ideas shape society.

  • Think across disciplines: Explore global challenges from multiple perspectives by integrating political analysis, economic reasoning, and philosophical inquiry.
  • Gain real-world skills: Develop expertise in research, debate and critical analysis through a curriculum that explores campaigns, elections, policy debates, and protest movements, preparing you for a range of careers in today’s competitive job market.
  • Engage in international diplomacy: Take part in Model NATO events in Washington DC, London, and Lisbon, where you'll broaden your global perspective and decision-making skills in an international setting.
  • Tailor your degree: Choose from a wide selection of optional modules to specialise in areas that align with your interests and career ambitions.
  • Learn from world-class academics: Be taught by renowned experts in politics, philosophy, and economics, gaining insights that will shape your thinking and future prospects.
Career opportunities As the most sought-after UK university by top graduate employers (High Fliers report, The Graduate Market 2024), our Politics, Philosophy and Economics (PPE) degree opens doors to a wide range of career paths. Whether you're interested in government, public policy, economics or global debates, this interdisciplinary degree equips you with the analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills employers value. PPE graduates go on to careers in government, international organisations, public affairs, finance, consultancy, journalism, and beyond. The versatility of this degree means you can explore roles in policy analysis, economics research, diplomacy, political advising, and making a real impact in today’s rapidly changing world.

Qualified teacher status (QTS)

To work as a teacher at a state school in England or Wales, you will need to achieve qualified teacher status (QTS). This is offered on this course for the following level:

  • Course does not award QTS

How to apply

Application codes

Course code:
L0V0
Institution code:
B32
Campus name:
Main Site
Campus code:
-

Points of entry

The following entry points are available for this course:

  • Year 1

Entry requirements

Qualification requirements


Student Outcomes

Operated by the Office for Students

There is no data available for this course. For further information visit the Discover Uni website.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

England £9535* Year 1
Northern Ireland £9535* Year 1
Scotland £9535* Year 1
Wales £9535* Year 1
Channel Islands £9535* Year 1
Republic of Ireland £9535* Year 1

*This is a provisional fee and subject to change.

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .

Additional fee information

The Government has yet to confirm the tuition fees payable by Home students for 2026/27 and subsequent years. The provisional tuition fee shown above relates to the academic year 2025/26. If Parliament agrees on an increase in tuition fees, the University will increase fees for each year of study normally in line with these changes and will communicate any change in the fees without delay. For details of the annual tuition fee for International Students please see the course web page listed in the 'course details' section above. If you are made an offer to study by the University, the yearly tuition fee will be stated in your offer letter.
Politics, Philosophy and Economics at University of Birmingham - UCAS