Program Overview

Introduction to Philosophy, Politics and Economics

The Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) course at Oxford University is a highly interdisciplinary program that combines the study of philosophy, politics, and economics to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the world. This course is designed to develop analytical, critical, and logical thinking skills, which are highly transferable to a wide range of careers.

Course Overview

• The PPE course is a three-year undergraduate degree that offers students the opportunity to study philosophy, politics, and economics in a unique and integrated way.
• The course is highly flexible, allowing students to shape their own path and choose from a wide range of options in each of the three subjects.
• Students can choose to specialize in two branches at the end of the first year or continue with all three subjects.

Subject Requirements

• There are no specific subject requirements for admission to the PPE course, but it is recommended that candidates have studied mathematics to A-level or equivalent.
• History can provide a useful background, but it is not essential.

Admissions Requirements

• The standard admission requirements for the PPE course are AAA at A-level, with specific requirements for international qualifications.
• All candidates must take the Thinking Skills Assessment (TSA) as part of the application process.
• Admissions tutors will be looking for evidence of interest in all three subjects and the ability to think clearly and analytically.

Course Structure

Year 1

• In the first year, students study all three branches of PPE: philosophy, politics, and economics.
• The indicative courses for the first year include:
  • Philosophy: general philosophy, moral philosophy, and elementary logic
  • Politics: the theory of politics, the practice of politics, and political analysis
  • Economics: microeconomics, macroeconomics, and mathematical and statistical techniques used in economics

Years 2 and 3

• In the second and third years, students can choose to continue with all three branches or concentrate on any two, taking compulsory courses in the chosen branches along with optional courses.
• The optional courses available may change from year to year, but currently include a wide range of topics in philosophy, politics, and economics.

Assessment

• The first university examinations are taken at the end of the first year and consist of three written papers.
• The final university examinations are taken at the end of the third year and consist of eight papers, typically assessed by written examination, but in some cases by coursework.

Careers

• Many PPE graduates go on to further academic study, while others pursue careers in a wide range of fields, including:
  • Banking and finance
  • Politics
  • Journalism
  • Law
  • Teaching
  • Social work
  • Voluntary organizations and charities
  • Business management
  • Management consultancy
  • Advertising
  • University teaching and research
  • Think tanks and consultancy
  • International organizations
  • Public service

Fees and Funding

• The course fees for the PPE program are currently ｣9,790 for home students and ｣43,600 for overseas students.
• Living costs at Oxford are estimated to be between ｣1,405 and ｣2,105 per month.
• Oxford offers one of the most generous financial support packages available for UK students, including tuition fee loans and bursaries.
• Additional fees and charges information can be found on the university's website.

Studying at Oxford

• The Oxford tutorial system is central to teaching at Oxford, providing students with personalized attention from academic experts.
• College life is an important part of the Oxford experience, with each college providing a safe, supportive environment for students to focus on their studies and enjoy time with friends.
• The university offers a wide range of resources and support services to help students succeed, including academic support, welfare services, and career guidance.

Connect with Us

• The university offers a range of outreach programs and events to promote the PPE course and support talented students from all backgrounds to apply.
• Prospective applicants can sign up to receive step-by-step support with their Oxford application.
• The university's digital resource hub and Oxplore platform provide subject-specific resources and activities to support supercurricular engagement for all ages.