3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
The BA Philosophy, Politics and Economics at UEA gives you a unique opportunity to study the intersection of ethical thinking, political systems, and economic structures. It’s perfect for students who want to understand how societies function and develop the skills to tackle complex global challenges from multiple perspectives.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Foundations of PPE
In your first year, you’ll build a strong foundation across all three disciplines. Modules like Understanding Politics Today, Philosophy of Social Transformation, and Introductory Microeconomics & Macroeconomics help you explore societal issues, ethical questions, and economic principles. Introduction to Political Communication also introduces you to how ideas and policies are shared and debated in real-world contexts.
Year 2: Deepening Knowledge and Specialization
The second year allows you to go deeper into each field. You’ll study modules such as Intermediate Microeconomics, Intermediate Macroeconomics, Philosophy of History and Politics, and States, Institutions and Citizens. Optional modules let you focus on areas that interest you most, while developing critical thinking and analytical skills essential for interdisciplinary problem-solving.
Year 3: Independent Research and Application
In your final year, you’ll apply your knowledge to real-world challenges through independent research projects. Compulsory modules include Ethics for Third Years, while optional modules like Digital Politics, Better Worlds? Utopias and Dystopias, Capitalism and Its Critics, and Greening the World: The Politics of Energy and Climate Change let you explore current issues in depth. You’ll also complete a dissertation or consultancy project, demonstrating your ability to analyze and communicate complex ideas effectively.
Focus Areas
Ethics, Political Structures, Economic Systems, Global Challenges, Interdisciplinary Analysis
Learning Outcomes
Critical Thinking, Analytical Skills, Research Proficiency, Effective Communication, Ethical Reasoning
Professional Alignment
Accredited by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), ensuring high academic standards and relevance to professional and research careers.
Reputation
UEA ranks among the Top 20 in the UK for Philosophy (Guardian 2025) and 14th for research quality in Politics and International Studies (Times Higher Education REF 2021).
At UEA, studying Philosophy, Politics, and Economics isn’t just about lectures and essays — you get plenty of hands-on opportunities to apply what you learn in the real world. The PPE program is designed to help you develop practical skills, work on meaningful projects, and gain experiences that employers and postgraduate programs value. You’ll have the chance to collaborate with peers across disciplines, tackle real societal issues, and build both leadership and analytical skills.
Here’s how UEA brings learning to life:
Volunteering & Community Projects: Engage in local and university-led initiatives, applying your knowledge to make a positive social impact.
Student-Led Initiatives: Lead or participate in projects that address contemporary political, ethical, or economic challenges, developing leadership and teamwork skills.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Work on group projects that combine philosophy, politics, and economics, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving.
Research & Practical Applications: Access UEA’s libraries, computer labs, and research facilities to support projects, essays, and dissertations.
Workshops & Seminars: Participate in interactive workshops that enhance skills like public speaking, policy analysis, and ethical reasoning.
These experiences ensure that you graduate not only with strong academic knowledge but also with the practical skills and confidence to thrive in a range of careers or further study.
Graduates of the BA (Hons) Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) program at UEA are well-equipped to pursue diverse and impactful careers. The interdisciplinary nature of the degree fosters critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of societal issues, making graduates highly sought after in various sectors.
Typical career paths for PPE graduates include roles such as:
Policy Analyst
Economic Consultant
Political Advisor
International Relations Specialist
These roles leverage the comprehensive skill set developed throughout the program, enabling graduates to contribute meaningfully to public and private sector initiatives.
Career Support & Employability
UEA offers robust support to enhance employability and career progression:
CareerCentral Service: Provides personalized career advice, CV workshops, interview preparation, and job search assistance.
Industry Partnerships: Collaborations with organizations such as the Government Economic Service, think tanks, and NGOs facilitate networking and employment opportunities.
Employability Workshops: Regular sessions on topics like professional networking, digital literacy, and career planning.
Alumni Network: Access to a global network of UEA graduates for mentorship and career guidance.
Graduate Outcomes
Employment Rate: UEA boasts an impressive graduate employment rate, with 81% of students in professional work or further study within 15 months of graduation.
Salary Expectations: Graduates can expect competitive salaries, with starting positions in economics and politics-related fields typically ranging from £25,000 to £35,000 annually, depending on the role and location.
Long-Term Accreditation Value
The PPE program at UEA is accredited by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), ensuring that the curriculum meets rigorous academic standards and aligns with industry expectations. This accreditation enhances the degree's value and recognition in the professional world.
Further Academic Progression:
Upon completion of the BA PPE program, graduates have the opportunity to pursue advanced studies, including:
Master's Degrees: Specialize further in areas such as Public Policy, International Relations, or Development Economics.
PhD Programs: Engage in in-depth research in political economy, economic policy, or related fields.
Professional Qualifications: Pursue certifications in areas like financial analysis, public administration, or data science to enhance career prospects.
UEA's commitment to interdisciplinary education and experiential learning ensures that graduates are well-prepared for both professional success and further academic endeavors.
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