Program Overview

Politics, Philosophy, and Economics Program

The Politics, Philosophy, and Economics (PPE) major is an interdisciplinary program that combines studies in political science, philosophy, and economics. This program requires a minimum of 89-90 credits, including 41 upper-division credits.

Program Structure

When seeking a bachelor's degree in PPE, students will take a core of classes from each of the three disciplines: political science, philosophy, and economics. Students will also choose from one of the following tracks:

• Financial Economics track: Prepares students for careers in the world of finance and investments.
• International Affairs track: Best for students interested in international politics.
• Philosophy Track: Designed for students interested in more closely studying "great ideas" and the presuppositions behind many arguments.
• Law Track: For students interested in attending law school or working in a policy-making career.
• Public Administration track: Designed for those interested in pursuing careers in public or voluntary sector administration.
• Social Enterprise track: Designed for students interested in focusing on how business can directly address social problems such as poverty and/or environmental sustainability.
• Applied Economics track: Designed for students interested in studying the allocation of resources and its effects on human welfare.

Additional Competencies and Requirements

• Spreadsheet Competency requirement: Demonstration of spreadsheet competency is required of all students graduating with degrees in the School of Business, Government, and Economics.
• New Majors Dessert attendance: Newly admitted students of majors in Business; Accounting; Economics; Global Development; and Politics, Philosophy, and Economics are required to attend an orientation event.

Benefits

As a PPE major, students will have the opportunity to think about important questions and develop solutions to pressing problems from multiple perspectives. They will learn from professors who are experts in the fields of political science, philosophy, and economics in an environment that emphasizes both competence and integrity within the context of Christian faith and values.

Career Opportunities

A PPE degree will prepare students for graduate school in disciplines such as law and public affairs and to work in fields such as politics/public policy or management consulting.

Admission to the Major

Formal application and admission to the Politics, Philosophy, and Economics major is required prior to enrollment in most upper-division courses. Admission is selective and based upon prior academic performance. To meet the minimum requirements for admission, students must:

• Have attained at least sophomore standing (45 or more college credits).
• Complete at least 15 credits in the major at SPU (10 credits for transfer juniors and seniors).
• Have either a 2.70 cumulative GPA and 2.70 major GPA at SPU, or a 3.0 major GPA. Major GPA does not include transfer work, only courses completed in program at SPU.
• Submit an online application during the specified window.

Time Schedule and Course Planning

All courses and suggested course sequences are available for planning purposes.