Political Legal and Economic Philosophy

The Bachelor’s degree program in Political, Legal, and Economic Philosophy at the University of Bern offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary curriculum designed to explore the fundamental questions that underpin modern political, legal, and economic systems. This program aims to cultivate critical thinking, analytical skills, and philosophical understanding among students, preparing them to engage thoughtfully with complex societal issues. Throughout the course of study, students will examine various philosophical perspectives on justice, authority, individual rights, and ethical responsibilities, while also gaining insight into the legal frameworks and economic theories that shape contemporary governance and societal structures. The program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating philosophy with political science, law, and economics, providing students with a well-rounded education that fosters an understanding of the interconnectedness of these fields. Students will have the opportunity to explore topics such as democracy, human rights, global justice, economic justice, legal institutions, and political ideologies, equipping them with the tools to analyze and critically assess societal challenges. The curriculum includes lectures, seminars, and independent research projects, encouraging active participation and intellectual inquiry. Graduates of this program will be well-prepared for careers in public service, policy analysis, legal consultancy, NGOs, international organizations, or further academic research. They will possess a nuanced understanding of philosophical foundations underlying political and economic decisions, along with the analytical skills necessary to contribute effectively to debates and decision-making processes in various professional environments. The program fosters an environment that encourages free inquiry and scholarly debate, supported by the university’s renowned faculty members who are experts in their respective fields. Offered entirely in English, the program attracts an international student body, creating a diverse academic community dedicated to exploring the philosophical roots of societal issues and developing solutions for a fair and just society.

The PLEP program consists of the following two parts.

a) Coursework
b) Master thesis

Mandatory Coursework

The mandatory coursework and course achievements are as follows:

3 seminars in Philosophy (7 credit points each) Colloquium “Methods of Practical Philosophy” (4 credit points) Colloquium “Master Thesis” (4 credit points) 1 compact course from the philosophy department (4 credit points) 1 project on a philosophical topic (paper dealing with a freely chosen topic in consultation with the supervisor, ca. 8000 words, may contain preliminary work for the master thesis) (6 credit points) Freely chosen courses or course achievements in Philosophy on Master level for an amount of 21 credit points total, including: seminars (7 credit points each), colloquia (4 credit points each), compact courses (4 credit points each), conducting tutorials (6 credit points each) Courses in Economics, Political Science, and Law on the Master's level for an amount of 30 credit points total. Master thesis (30 credit points)

Master Thesis

The master thesis (ca. 25000 words, excluding bibliography, 30 credit points) is a more comprehensive treatment of a specific topic from the areas of political philosophy, philosophy of economics, philosophy of law, or of the ethics of publics affairs. It has to be written (and finished) during the last term and is supervised individually. The topic can be freely chosen in consultation with the supervisor. The master thesis has to be presented and discussed in the mandatory Colloquium Master Thesis. It can be written in German or English.

The following academic qualifications are required for admission to the specialized master’s degree program in Political, Legal and Economic Philosophy PLEP (mono):

Bachelor's degree from a recognized university with:

As regards a), if no evidence is provided of 60 ECTS credits in the branches of studies Political Sciences, Business Administration / Management and Economics or Law, suitable courses at bachelor’s level relating to the branches of studies of Political Sciences, Business Administration and Economics or Law to the value of 15 ECTS credits must be completed as admission requirements, which must be fulfilled in order to complete the master's degree program. The ECTS credits will be listed separately in the diploma supplement as extracurricular attainments.

As regards b), c) and d), if no evidence is provided of 60 ECTS credits in the branch of studies Philosophy, the following four introductory courses will need to be completed as admission requirements, which must be fulfilled during the first two semesters of study on an extra-curricular basis:

The bachelor's degree may not be more than ten years old. Exceptions are possible where justified.

Language requirements

The courses are conducted in English. Additional attainments (introductory courses etc.) are mainly conducted in German. 

English language skills

You must provide evidence of having achieved the minimum grade in one of the following language tests (the choice is yours) provided this is not more than 36 months old at the time of application. Any test with a date older than this will not be accepted.

An exemption from the English test is possible if you have completed your studies in English within a language community, in which English is the main spoken language. 

German language skills

If you are applying with a foreign academic qualification and need to satisfy admission requirements (in German) which can be completed during the program of study, you will need – before starting your studies – to demonstrate sufficient proficiency in German comparable with the German test regulations set out by the Executive Board of the University of Bern. Rules for bachelor's degree programs apply in this case. A minimum of level C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages is required.

The financing of the Political, Legal and Economic Philosophy program at the University of Bern is structured to ensure that students have access to a comprehensive and high-quality education while minimizing financial barriers. Tuition fees at the University of Bern are generally designed to be affordable relative to other Swiss universities, with specific costs applicable to international students. Swiss residents typically benefit from lower fees, and the university offers detailed information on the required payments for both local and international students. In addition to tuition fees, students may incur costs for registration, semester contributions, and administrative charges, which include access to student services and facilities.

Funding opportunities are available through a variety of channels. The Swiss government and the canton of Bern provide scholarships and grants aimed at supporting local and international students who demonstrate financial need or academic excellence. For students enrolled in the program, the university offers both merit-based scholarships and need-based financial aid, which can significantly offset tuition costs and living expenses. International students are encouraged to explore external funding options, including scholarships from their home countries or international organizations supporting study in Switzerland.

Furthermore, the university collaborates with various research institutes and projects, offering students opportunities to gain financial support through research assistantships and paid internships. Many students also seek part-time employment within Bern or nearby areas, and the university's career services department provides resources and guidance to assist students in finding suitable work placements compatible with their academic commitments.

Living expenses in Bern, including accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, and personal expenditures, should also be considered when planning financing. The university provides estimates to help students budget appropriately and offers advice on affordable accommodation options, including on-campus housing and shared apartments.

International students are often eligible for specific scholarships designed for foreign nationals, and application procedures are outlined on the university’s official website. It is essential for prospective students to carefully review the eligibility criteria, deadlines, and application procedures for these funding opportunities and to seek guidance from the university’s financial aid office. Overall, the combination of tuition fees, scholarships, external funding, part-time work, and careful budget planning allows students to finance their studies effectively at the University of Bern, ensuring that academic excellence in Political, Legal and Economic Philosophy remains accessible to motivated and qualified individuals.

The Political, Legal, and Economic Philosophy program at the University of Bern offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary education that explores the foundational issues underlying political theory, legal reasoning, and economic thought. This program is designed for students interested in understanding the complex interrelations between political ideologies, legal systems, and economic theories, emphasizing critical thinking and analytical skills. The curriculum typically includes courses in political philosophy, legal theory, ethics, economic philosophy, and methodology of the social sciences. Students are encouraged to engage with both classical and contemporary texts, fostering a deep understanding of philosophical debates that shape modern societies.

The program aims to develop students' ability to analyze complex political and legal issues from philosophical perspectives, equipping them with skills necessary for careers in academia, public policy, law, or international organizations. The program often involves a combination of lectures, seminar discussions, and research projects, encouraging active participation and independent critical inquiry. Students may have the opportunity to specialize in particular areas such as constitutional theory, human rights, justice, or economic ethics, depending on their interests.

Throughout their studies, students are expected to acquire proficiency in multiple languages relevant to philosophical and legal texts, and to develop strong analytical and argumentative skills. The program prepares students for further academic research or professional work that requires sophisticated reasoning and an understanding of the philosophical foundations of law, politics, and economics. The University of Bern's emphasis on a liberal arts and sciences approach ensures a well-rounded education, integrating historical perspectives with contemporary issues to foster a nuanced understanding of the interconnectedness of political and economic philosophies. Collaborative projects, internships, and seminars with renowned scholars may also be part of the curriculum, enhancing practical understanding and research experience. Overall, this program offers a rigorous academic environment tailored to students passionate about exploring the philosophical dimensions of societal governance and economic organization at both national and international levels.