Politics, Philosophy and Economics (Honours)

Overview

Politics, philosophy and economics (PPE) are central to understanding how modern societies are organised and governed, and studying them together gives you a combination of skills that’s in high demand across the private, public and non-profit sectors. 

All three disciplines are presented in up-to-date form, covering alternative as well as ‘mainstream’ approaches and firmly rooted in the real world.

Key features of the Politics, Philosophy and Economics (Honours) course at The Open University UK 

• Explore how arguments and public policies are constructed in theory and tested in practice

• Increase your employability across the private and public sectors

• Enjoy synergies among three complementary disciplines while studying a full curriculum in each

Skills for career development

In addition to specialist knowledge of politics, philosophy and economics, this degree course will help you develop valuable transferable skills for employment, including:

• using a range of communication technologies to independently research, select and present information

• analysing and critically evaluating information and data

• writing and communicating concisely and clearly

• assembling reasoned arguments for particular audiences

• using a range of formats: essays, presentations, reports, collaborative working, online forums

• reflecting on your own learning and developing strategies to update your knowledge

• valuing critical feedback to reflect on progress and improve your work

• working on your own initiative and managing your time.

Career relevance

A degree in politics philosophy and economics is internationally recognised as providing a set of conceptual and quantitative skills particularly relevant for many areas of public service, such as the civil and diplomatic services and local government. In particular, you’ll develop skills enabling you to express your ideas clearly and logically; understand and analyse complex information; and study independently.

Other careers

This degree course is also good preparation for a wide variety of other careers, including banking and finance, politics, journalism and broadcasting, law, industry, teaching, social work, accountancy, business management, consultancy, marketing and advertising – and many graduate-level jobs are open to graduates of any discipline. Some careers may require further study, training and/or work experience beyond your degree.