BA (Hons) Philosophy, Politics and Economics

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Manchester Metropolitan University

Program Overview

If you’re fascinated by how societies function — how ideas shape decisions, how governments make policies, and how economies grow — the BA (Hons) Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) at Manchester Metropolitan University gives you the perfect platform to explore it all. This program suits curious, globally minded students who want to understand the connections between ethics, power, and money, while gaining the analytical and problem-solving skills that make them stand out in the modern world.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
Your first year lays the groundwork across all three subjects. You’ll study thought-provoking modules such as The Making of Modern Britain: Political Culture and Society, Measuring Inequality, and A Critical Introduction to the History of Philosophy. These courses introduce you to how governments operate, how economies respond to change, and how philosophical ideas influence policy and society.

Year 2
In the second year, you’ll begin to apply theory to real-world issues. You’ll explore topics like Comparative Politics, Macroeconomics and Institutions, and Ethics and Knowledge (Epistemology), strengthening your ability to debate and analyse complex global challenges. You’ll also learn advanced research methods and investigate issues like inequality, sustainability, and social justice.

Year 3
Your final year is where everything comes together. You’ll work on a major research dissertation and dive deeper into specialist modules such as Environmental Economics, Political Philosophy, or Digital Politics. By the end, you’ll be ready to apply your knowledge in policymaking, consulting, or leadership — wherever your ambitions take you.

Focus Areas: Philosophy of society, political institutions and public policy, economic systems and inequality, sustainability and ethics.

Learning Outcomes: Develop critical and interdisciplinary thinking, analyse real-world political and economic issues, conduct independent research, and communicate ideas with confidence and clarity.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): Although not tied to a specific accrediting body, this PPE degree is co-developed with MMU’s School of History, Politics & Philosophy and Business School’s Applied Economics Group, ensuring you gain practical, career-relevant skills that employers value.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): Manchester Metropolitan University is known for excellent graduate outcomes — 88% of social sciences graduates are in work or further study within 15 months of graduation

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Manchester Metropolitan University, the BA (Hons) Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) is designed to help you experience how ideas work in the real world — not just study them. You’ll take part in live projects, data-driven workshops, and engaging debates that mirror the decisions made by leaders, policymakers, and economists every day. Through group discussions, analytical tasks, and collaboration with real organisations, you’ll gain the confidence, adaptability, and critical thinking skills needed to thrive in global policy, government, or business environments.

Here’s how you’ll put your learning into action:

Live policy and research projects in partnership with real organisations such as DEFRA, Manchester City Council, and The National Trust, allowing you to tackle real-world social, political, and environmental issues.
PC-lab sessions and digital workshops where you’ll use economic and political data analysis tools to understand real case studies and enhance your digital research skills.
Collaborative seminars and group debates that build your confidence in argumentation, communication, and teamwork — core skills for leadership and public service.
Access to MMU’s award-winning library and digital databases, ensuring you have world-class resources to support your research and writing.
Opportunities to join the PPE Society and engage in networking events, guest lectures, and student-led discussions that connect you with the wider academic and policy community.

This hands-on learning approach ensures that by the time you graduate, you’re not just well-read — you’re well-prepared to make a real impact in the worlds of politics, philosophy, and economics.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating with a BA (Hons) Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) from Manchester Metropolitan University gives you the knowledge and versatility to thrive in almost any career that values critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership. Whether you want to influence public policy, work in government or finance, or shape social impact initiatives, this degree equips you with the analytical edge and communication skills employers look for. Many graduates go on to work as Policy Analysts, Public Affairs Consultants, Economic Researchers, or International Relations Officers — turning their passion for ideas into meaningful, real-world change.

Here’s how MMU supports your future every step of the way:

Personalised career support: The Careers and Employability Service offers one-to-one coaching, CV and interview workshops, and networking events with major employers, helping you plan your career with confidence.
Strong graduate outcomes: Nearly 88% of PPE and social science graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduation (Discover Uni).
Industry engagement: You’ll benefit from MMU’s close partnerships with local councils, think tanks, and public organisations like DEFRA, Manchester City Council, and The National Trust, where students often work on live projects and policy research.
Global and long-term value: Manchester Met’s reputation for employability and innovation means your degree will continue to hold value across sectors and borders.
Graduate success stories: Many PPE graduates progress into roles in government, consulting, journalism, finance, and international development — or continue into advanced academic research.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, you could pursue a Master’s in Public Policy, International Relations, Political Economy, or Philosophy, or even branch into Law, Business, or Development Studies. These advanced routes help you deepen your expertise and prepare for leadership positions in both public and private sectors.