University of Reading United Kingdom

BA Philosophy, Politics and Economics

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

Embark on the BA Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) at the University of Reading, a dynamic undergraduate degree designed to equip you with a profound understanding of the interconnected forces shaping our world. This course is ideal if you are keen to critically analyse complex societal challenges from theoretical, practical, and ethical viewpoints, drawing on the distinct yet complementary insights of philosophy, politics, and economics. You will explore fundamental ideas about truth and ethical judgements, delve into political theories and democratic processes, and study the applied and practical issues of economics, preparing you to engage meaningfully with pressing global issues.

This full-time, on-campus programme, studied over three years, allows you to build a strong foundation in all three disciplines, with the flexibility to specialise as you progress. Your learning journey will involve exploring arguments in diverse contexts, gaining analytical introductions to economic concepts, and understanding the politics of global challenges. Through compulsory modules and a wide array of optional choices, you will develop critical thinking, logic, and research skills. In your final year, you will undertake a significant independent research project, such as a dissertation, culminating in a degree that prepares you for diverse career paths in public service, policy, research, or the private sector.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA program offers a multidisciplinary approach to understanding the complexities of the modern world. Students will engage with core principles in philosophy, economics, and politics, developing critical thinking and analytical skills. The curriculum progresses from foundational concepts in the first year to more specialized and advanced topics in subsequent years, culminating in independent research and dissertations. Optional modules allow for tailored exploration of diverse areas within each discipline, fostering a comprehensive and nuanced perspective.

1 YEAR 1

Reason and Argument Compulsory
Principles of Economics 1 Compulsory
Principles of Economics 2 Compulsory
Politics of Climate Change Compulsory
Introduction to Political Ideas Compulsory
Radical Philosophy Optional
Global Justice Optional
Philosophical Skills for Life Optional

2 YEAR 2

Intermediate Microeconomics Compulsory
Intermediate Macroeconomics Compulsory
Study of Politics Compulsory
Ethical Argument Optional
Oppression, Inequality, and the Enemies of Democracy Optional
Meaning and the Mind Optional
Global Philosophies Optional
Aesthetics Optional
Philosophy through the Ages: The Minds that Shaped our World Optional
Ignorance, Doubt, and Relativism Optional
Comparative Government and Politics Optional
Global Order Optional
Political Thinking Optional
American Government and Politics Optional
Politics Classics Optional
The Media and Politics Optional
British Government and Politics Optional
War, Peace and International Ethics Optional
Intermediate Logic Optional

3 YEAR 3

Dissertation in Philosophy Compulsory
Independent Learning Module Compulsory
Dissertation in Politics Compulsory
Dissertation in Politics (mini) Compulsory
Free Will and Responsibility Optional
Philosophy of Language: Animals, Babies, Colours, and Language Death Optional
Public Economics Optional
Environmental Economics Optional
Behavioural Economics Optional
Industrial Organisation Optional
Financial Economics Optional
International Economics Optional
Development Economics Optional
Money and Banking Optional
Karl Marx Optional
Risk Optional
Politics and International Relations of the Middle East Optional
International Political Economy Optional
Feminism and Political Theory Optional
Democracy, Division and Disagreement Optional
Paradoxes Optional
Metaphysics Optional
Philosophy of Religion Optional
Early Chinese Philosophy Optional
Current Moral Philosophy Optional
Fairness Optional
Business Ethics and Social Responsibility Optional
Society and State in Ancient Greece Optional
The Scandal of Film Optional
Hume and Wittgenstein Optional
Speech Attacks: Bullshit, Lies, Propaganda Optional
Global Justice Optional
Political Behaviour around the World Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,941.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,941.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 34,941.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 104,824.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,126.00 - USD 18,832.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 645.00 - USD 1,289.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 1,934.00
Estimated Total USD 4,190.00 - USD 7,251.00

Living cost estimates are based on WhiteKnights Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accounting & AuditingAgricultural Services & ExtensionEnvironmental & Sustainable ConstructionLivestock & Animal HusbandryNutrition & DieteticsPrivate Equity & Venture CapitalProject & Construction ManagementRetail & GrocerySupply Chain & Commodity TradingWealth Management & Financial Advisory

Top Employers Hiring for this course

European commission

FAO

Kings College London

Savillis

Tesco

Why Study BA Philosophy, Politics and Economics at University of Reading

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Reading in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BA Philosophy, Politics and Economics at University of Reading

Can I work while studying?

Degree students can work up to 20 hours a week during term time and full-time during breaks without needing a separate work permit. Part-time students cannot work.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English proficiency, you can provide scores from tests like Duolingo (overall 125), IELTS (overall 7.0), or TOEFL (overall 100). Ensure you meet the specific score requirements for each section as well.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Policy Analyst, Economist, Legislative Assistant, and Business Consultant.

What will I actually study in this course?

This degree equips you with interdisciplinary skills from Philosophy, Politics, and Economics. You'll assess contemporary issues and gain insights from ethical and theoretical perspectives.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BA Philosophy, Politics and Economics program starts in September. It's important to prepare your application ahead of this date to secure your spot.
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