Philosophy, Politics and Economics

Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) is a multidisciplinary programme that explores many intersecting topics, such as how societies function, how political and economic decisions are made, and the ethical frameworks behind them. It also covers more abstract areas, such as the nature of justice and knowledge.

This degree blends three distinct but interrelated disciplines:

• Philosophy sharpens your critical thinking and ethical reasoning. You will tackle questions about morality, justice, logic, truth and reality.
• Politics examines power, governance and public policy. It covers political theory, international relations, and the workings of institutions and groups such as governments, political parties and the United Nations.
• Economics focuses on how resources are allocated, how markets operate, and how policies affect wealth and welfare. It includes both micro and macroeconomic theory, often with quantitative analysis.

As a PPE student, you will learn to analyse complex problems from multiple angles, debate ideas rigorously, and to communicate with clarity and precision. The degree is intellectually demanding, rewarding, and enables you to develop a variety of skills and abilities, while providing you with a unique perspective on a wide range of practical and theoretical issues and debates.

You will study at our Singleton Park Campus, in beautiful parkland, overlooking Swansea Bay on the edge of the Gower Peninsula.

This PPE degree aims to provide you with a firm grounding in the core topics of philosophy, politics and economics, as well as an appreciation of how these subjects intersect. This is achieved through a careful selection of compulsory modules that ensure you can cover central issues in each subject area, along with a sufficient range of optional modules, that allow you to focus on your preferred areas of study.

In year 1, your studies will provide you with an introduction to economics. Alongside this, you will be introduced to philosophical analysis and argument, as well as examining how philosophical, political and economic issues intersect. You can choose whether to study two modules in philosophy, politics or economics, which is crucial as many 2nd and 3rd year economics modules require you to have studied earlier economics modules.

In your second year, you will learn about some of the most influential philosophers within western philosophy, as well as developing your critical reasoning and analysis. You will also learn how to apply key economic principles to the contemporary economy.

In your final year, you will complete a dissertation, as well as studies that combine philosophical, political and economic perspectives. You can choose to balance your study of the three subjects through your optional module choices.

We have a long-standing collaboration with the Senedd, which enables us to offer an educational work placement for students with an interest in policymaking within the Welsh context. The Senedd module runs across two terms in the final year and serves as a selective option instead of the dissertation. You will be placed with a Senedd Member (MS) and their team for one day a week and experience the workings of the office of a representative as well as the Welsh Parliament itself.

This programme includes opportunities to undertake a Semester or Year Abroad, enhancing your learning and offering invaluable life experience.

This course also offers you the opportunity to spend a Year in Industry, in the UK or overseas, enabling you to gain valuable workplace experience. The University advocates for paid-only placements, which on average have a salary of over £20,000. Unpaid placements are considered on a case-by-case basis.

Kickstart a bright future at Swansea University.

With around 300,000 residents, Swansea isn’t the biggest city this side of the Severn, but she’s got a big personality with a cost of living that’s refreshingly affordable compared to most other UK cities. Whether you like to explore the outdoors, take in a bit of culture, or anything in between, Swansea has something for everyone.

As a student at Swansea University, you'll benefit from a friendly, inclusive community and opportunities to gain skills that last a lifetime. Alongside first-class resources that include a mock court room, indoor athletics centre & virtual reality lab, you'll learn from leading academics, in a supportive and nurturing environment.

With 120 societies, 50 sports clubs and 12 months of must-see events, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy between lectures.

Whoever you are and whoever you want to be, you'll find yourself right at home in Swansea.