4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
The BA (Hons) Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) with a Placement Year at UEA is an exciting, interdisciplinary degree that combines the study of critical thinking, political systems, and economic principles. It’s perfect for students who want to understand how societies function and develop the skills to make a real-world impact.
Curriculum Structure:
Year 1:
Students start with foundational modules like Rights & Wrongs: An Introduction to Social and Political Theory, Understanding Politics Today: Approaches, Issues and Case Studies, and Power, (Dis)order & Security: Understanding Global Politics 1. These courses introduce political ideas, ethical reasoning, and global politics, helping students sharpen their analytical and critical thinking skills.
Year 2:
The second year deepens understanding with modules such as Introduction to Data Analysis for Politics and International Relations, States, Institutions and Citizens, and Cooperation and Crisis: An Introduction to the European Union. Students develop skills in data analysis, international relations, and policy evaluation, preparing for more specialized study.
Placement Year:
During the third year, students complete a 9–12 month placement in a relevant organization. This hands-on experience allows them to apply their knowledge in real-world settings, gain professional insights, and significantly boost employability.
Year 4:
In the final year, students explore advanced modules like Politics and Popular Culture, Better Worlds? Utopias and Dystopias, and Data, Politics and Society. They can also undertake a dissertation or research project, giving them the chance to dive deeply into a topic they are passionate about while honing independent research and critical analysis skills.
Focus Areas: Philosophy, Politics, Economics, International Relations, Data Analysis, Political Communication
Learning Outcomes: Critical Thinking, Analytical Skills, Research Proficiency, Effective Communication, Policy Analysis
Professional Alignment (Accreditation): Recognized by professional bodies related to politics, philosophy, and economics.
Reputation (Employability Rankings): UEA ranks highly for Politics and International Studies, with strong research impact and excellent graduate employability. It sits in the top 30 UK universities according to multiple official rankings.
At UEA, the BA (Hons) Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) with a Placement Year isn’t just about lectures and textbooks – it’s designed to give you real-world experience alongside your studies. Students get to apply their learning in practical settings, develop professional skills, and explore career pathways through an immersive placement year. UEA’s focus is on helping you think critically, analyze complex problems, and communicate effectively – skills that are highly valued by employers.
To make this possible, students have access to excellent facilities and opportunities that enhance learning and employability:
Placement Year: Spend 9–12 months working in a relevant organization, applying your academic knowledge to real-world challenges.
CareerCentral: Get personalized career guidance, connect with potential employers, and access internship opportunities.
UEA Award: Recognizes and develops your extracurricular activities, volunteering, and leadership experiences.
UEA Library: State-of-the-art study spaces and extensive collections to support research and coursework.
Norwich Research Park: Opportunities to engage in research projects, innovation, and collaboration with industry professionals.
Workshops & Networking Events: Regular sessions to enhance skills like data analysis, policy evaluation, and professional communication.
These resources ensure that you graduate not just with a degree, but with practical experience, industry connections, and the confidence to succeed in your chosen career.
Graduates of the BA (Hons) Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) with a Placement Year at UEA leave equipped with a mix of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, making them highly sought-after in a range of fields. They are ready to step into roles where critical thinking, data analysis, and strategic decision-making are valued:
Typical Career Roles:
Policy Analyst
Economic Consultant
Political Advisor
Public Relations Specialist
UEA ensures graduates are supported every step of the way:
CareerCentral: Personalized career guidance, internship opportunities, and employer networking events.
UEA Award: Recognition for volunteering, leadership, and extracurricular achievements that enhance employability.
Student Support Services: Academic guidance, personal development workshops, and wellbeing support.
UEA Library: Extensive collections and study spaces to support research and learning.
Norwich Research Park: Opportunities to collaborate on innovative research projects with industry partners.
Employment Insights:
Around 90% of UEA graduates find employment or continue their studies within six months.
Average starting salaries range from £25,000 to £30,000, depending on the sector and role.
University–Industry Connections:
Partnerships with the Public Policy Institute for real-world policy work.
Collaborations with think tanks and consultancy firms for economic research experience.
Engagement with political organizations for campaign and advisory opportunities.
Accreditation & Long-Term Value:
The PPE degree is recognized by professional bodies in politics, philosophy, and economics, ensuring your qualification is respected and valuable throughout your career.
Graduation Outcomes:
UEA PPE graduates are well-prepared to take on roles in government, international organizations, financial institutions, and NGOs, bringing analytical insight and practical experience to their workplaces.
Further Academic Progression:
After graduation, students can specialize further through postgraduate programs such as:
MSc in Public Policy
MSc in International Relations
MSc in Economics
MA in Political Philosophy
These pathways allow graduates to deepen expertise and open doors to senior roles or research-focused careers.
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