Program Overview

---

BA (Hons) Philosophy, Politics and Economics

Overview

The BA (Hons) Philosophy, Politics and Economics is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to be effective and critical leaders in various careers in the public and private sectors. The course encourages students to disrupt orthodox approaches to political, philosophical, and economic issues and address the complexities of today's environmental, social, and economic issues.

Course Information

The course is jointly delivered by the School of History, Politics and Philosophy and the Business School's Applied Economics Group, uniting deep critical insight with real-world economic expertise. It features work-integrated learning, with authentic, real-world projects embedded in every year of study, and partners with organizations such as DEFRA, Manchester City Council, and the National Trust.

Features and Benefits

• Powered by leading research schools: Jointly delivered by the School of History, Philosophy & Politics and the Business School’s Applied Economics Group.
• Work-integrated learning: Authentic, real-world projects embedded in every year of study.
• Future-ready graduates: Gain digital, professional, and critical leadership skills.
• Industry-backed curriculum: Co-designed with leading employers to ensure practical relevance and excellent graduate outcomes.
• Research-led and globally connected: Explore cutting-edge issues through research-informed teaching and international opportunities.
• Empowered, inclusive learning: Innovative teaching, co-created with students, using inclusive, tech-enhanced methods.

Year 1

In the first year, students gain foundational knowledge across philosophy, politics, and economics, learning how to critically analyze historical and contemporary issues. Core modules include:

• The Making of Modern Britain: Political Culture and Society
• Measuring Inequality
• A Critical Introduction to the History of Philosophy
• Introductory Microeconomics and Macroeconomics

Year 2

In the second year, students deepen their understanding of complex global challenges, exploring them through political, ethical, and economic lenses. Core modules include:

• Climate Crisis: Impacts and Responses
• Macroeconomics and Institutions
• Fit for the Future Option modules include:
• From Making It To Faking It: The Philosophy Of Technology
• Social and Public Policy
• Ethics and its Critics

Year 3

In the final year, students undertake an independent project that demonstrates their ability to apply philosophical, political, and economic thinking to real-world issues. Core modules include:

• Independent Project
• Critical Identities Option modules include:
• Critical Political Thought
• Political and Revolutionary Philosophy
• Information and Security

Study and Assessment

• Year 1: 30% lectures, seminars or similar; 70% independent study. 100% coursework.
• Year 2: 30% lectures, seminars or similar; 70% independent study. 100% coursework.
• Year 3: 25% lectures, seminars or similar; 75% independent study. 100% coursework.

Placements

Students may have the chance to spend a year getting a taste of professional life and show employers that they’re ready to get to work. The placement team provides links to employers and supports students in finding placement opportunities.

Entry Requirements

• Typical offer: 112-120 UCAS tariff points.
• IELTS score: 6.0 overall with no component below 5.5.
• UK students: 112-120 UCAS tariff points, with specific requirements for different qualifications (e.g., GCE A levels, Pearson BTEC National Extended Diploma).
• International students: IB Diploma with minimum 26 points overall or 112 UCAS Tariff points from Higher Level, and IELTS score of 6.0 overall with no component below 5.5.

Fees and Funding

Tuition fees for the 2026/27 academic year are still being finalized. Information on 2025/26 standard undergraduate fees for UK/Channel Islands and EU/Non-EU international students is available.

Careers Support and Prospects

• Employed or in further study: 88.7% of UK-domiciled, full-time, first-degree graduates.
• Explore your options and build sought-after skills: Through the Careers Service, students are supported and encouraged to get ready for further study or working life.
• Graduate outcomes: Graduates of philosophy, politics, and economics are highly sought after for their critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills.

Related Courses

• BA (Hons) Philosophy
• BA (Hons) Politics
• BA (Hons) Joint Honours Politics and Philosophy

Disclaimers

• Programme review: Our programmes undergo an annual review and major review (normally at 6-year intervals) to ensure an up-to-date curriculum supported by the latest online learning technology.
• Important notice: This online prospectus provides an overview of our programmes of study and the University. We regularly update our online prospectus to ensure that our published course information is accurate.