Bachelor's Philosophy, Politics and Economics and Arts

4 Years On Campus Dual-bachelors Program

University of Western Australia

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Philosophy, Politics and Economics and Arts at the University of Western Australia is a four-year combined degree that lets you graduate with two qualifications in one program. You’ll explore big ideas in philosophy, politics, and economics while also pursuing an Arts major that reflects your passions — giving you both depth and flexibility for future opportunities.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
Your first year sets the foundation across all disciplines. You’ll take introductory units in philosophy and ethics, political ideas, and basic economic theory, while also beginning your Arts major with classes in areas like languages, history, or creative writing. This year helps you start thinking critically and connecting ideas across fields.

Year 2:
Second year builds your analytical skills further. You’ll explore economic models and policy issues, dive into political theory, and examine philosophical approaches to justice and ethics. At the same time, your Arts major deepens your knowledge in your chosen field, linking it to social, cultural, and global contexts.

Year 3:
By third year, your PPE studies become more applied. You’ll engage in discussions and research on topics like public policy, global inequality, and ethical decision-making, while your Arts units allow more focused study in your area of interest, helping you combine specialist knowledge with a broad understanding of society.

Year 4:
In your final year, both strands of your degree come together. You’ll tackle advanced PPE units that challenge you to analyse and solve real-world problems, while your Arts major concludes with higher-level study or a capstone project that showcases your expertise and prepares you for life after graduation.

Focus Areas

Interdisciplinary social analysis, philosophical reasoning, political systems, economic theory, and specialised Arts study

Learning Outcomes

Critical thinking, analytical reasoning, strong written and verbal communication, interdisciplinary problem-solving, and cultural awareness

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

This degree is designed to give you the skills employers are looking for: problem-solving, research, and communication. UWA’s global reputation means your dual degree is respected worldwide, opening doors across public, private, and not-for-profit sectors.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

UWA consistently ranks among the world’s top universities and is known for strong teaching quality and graduate outcomes. Completing this dual degree ensures you graduate with a qualification that is valued by employers and postgraduate programs alike.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At UWA, learning isn’t just about sitting in lectures — it’s about doing, exploring, and applying your knowledge in real-world ways. Throughout the PPE and Arts degree, you’ll work on projects, solve problems with your classmates, and gain practical skills that employers value. The campus supports this with modern lecture theatres, collaborative breakout spaces, and access to UWA’s six libraries, giving you all the tools you need to research, analyse, and create. You’ll also have opportunities to connect your studies to real workplaces through professional experience units, helping you build confidence, networks, and career-ready skills before graduation.

Some of the ways you’ll gain hands-on experience include:

Work placements and internships: Gain real-world experience with over 500 organisations across government, business, and not-for-profit sectors, all while earning credit toward your degree.
Group projects and collaborative learning: Work closely with peers in case study rooms and breakout spaces on practical problem-solving exercises and interdisciplinary projects.
Independent research: Use UWA’s extensive library system and campus resources to conduct in-depth research that mirrors professional inquiry in philosophy, politics, economics, and your Arts major.
Student clubs and professional networking: Join groups like the Philosophy, Politics and Economics Union of UWA to meet peers, hear from guest speakers, and discover internship or career opportunities.
Global learning experiences: Participate in study abroad or exchange programs to broaden your perspectives and apply your learning internationally.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Philosophy, Politics and Economics and Arts leave UWA with a mix of critical thinking, practical problem-solving, and cultural insight that employers really value. You’ll be ready to step into roles like policy analyst, government advisor, communications specialist, or international development officer, where you can make a real impact. This degree gives you flexibility to work across public, private, and not-for-profit sectors, so you can choose the path that suits your passions.

Here’s how UWA helps you turn your degree into career-ready skills:

Career support services: UWA’s Careers & Employability Centre offers personalised guidance on resumes, cover letters, interview skills, job search strategies, and industry networking — giving you confidence to step into the workforce.
Strong employment outcomes: Most graduates find full-time roles within months of finishing, with competitive starting salaries in areas like public policy, social research, and creative industries.
Industry connections and partnerships: UWA works closely with government agencies, businesses, and community organisations to provide internships, placements, and networking events, so you can start building professional connections early.
Accreditation and long-term value: A combined degree from UWA is respected worldwide, signalling to employers that you’ve completed a rigorous, high-quality program that prepares you for real-world challenges.

Further Academic Progression:
Once you finish your degree, you have excellent options to continue your studies. Many students go on to master’s programs in public policy, international relations, economics, political science, or creative arts, deepening their expertise. Others pursue professional degrees like a Juris Doctor or specialist master’s in areas such as educational leadership or global development, giving them even more flexibility and career opportunities.