Philosophy Politics and Economics

Explore the interdisciplinary fields of Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) at the University of Oxford, a highly regarded undergraduate degree program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental issues shaping the modern world. This course offers an integrated curriculum that combines rigorous philosophical inquiry, contemporary political analysis, and economic theory to prepare students for a wide range of careers in public policy, law, journalism, academia, and beyond. Throughout the programme, students will engage with classic texts and current debates, developing critical thinking, analytical skills, and a nuanced understanding of complex societal challenges. The philosophy component encourages examination of fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, and ethics, fostering skills in logical reasoning and argumentation. The politics element covers the structure and functioning of political systems, international relations, and policy-making processes, equipping students with insights into power dynamics and governance. Economics provides a foundation in microeconomics and macroeconomics, enabling students to understand market mechanisms and economic policy decisions. The interdisciplinary nature of PPE allows for flexibility, enabling students to tailor their studies towards particular interests or career paths. Lectures, seminars, tutorials, and a range of independent research opportunities are integral to the programme, providing students with a stimulating academic environment. The programme emphasizes the development of critical thinking, effective communication, and analytical skills, preparing graduates to think independently and act responsibly in diverse professional and societal contexts. Students also benefit from access to Oxford’s extensive resources, including world-class libraries and research centres, which support in-depth study and engagement with leading scholars. By completing this programme, graduates will gain a well-rounded perspective on political, philosophical, and economic issues, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary for careers in public service, journalism, international organizations, academia, or further postgraduate study. The University of Oxford is committed to providing an intellectually challenging education that encourages students to think deeply about the key issues facing contemporary society, fostering the skills necessary for leadership and responsible citizenship.

Your work is divided between lectures (typically six to eight a week), tutorials and classes (typically two tutorials or one tutorial and one class a week), and private study mainly spent preparing essays or problem sets for tutorials and classes.

• Attestat o Srednam Obrazovanii (Certificate of Secondary Education) would not be sufficient for candidates to make a competitive application. If your qualification is listed as being insufficient to make a competitive application to Oxford, then you will need to undertake further study if you wish to apply.You could take British A-levels (the British Council may know where you can take A-levels in your country), the International Baccalaureate (IB), or any other qualifications listed as acceptable on this page. The first year of a bachelor's degree from another university could also be an acceptable alternative.
• IELTS: overall score of 7.0 (with at least 7.0 in each of the four components)
• TOEFL (paper-based): overall score of 600 with a Test of Written English score of 5.5
• TOEFL (internet-based): overall score of 110 with component scores of at least: Listening 22, Reading 24, Speaking 25, and Writing 24.
• Cambridge English: Advanced, also known as the Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): grade A if taken before January 2015, or a score of at least 185.
• Cambridge English: Proficiency, also known as the Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): grade B if taken before January 2015, or a score of at least 185.
• English Language GCSE, or O-level: grade B (for IGCSE, please see below)
• International Baccalaureate Standard Level (SL): score of 5 in English (as Language A or B)
• European Baccalaureate: score of 70% in English.

Hill Foundation Scholarship

Russian nationals wishing to study for a second undergraduate degree. 

Palgrave Brown Scholarship

Students must be ordinarily resident in and/or educated in the following countries:

Albania; Armenia; Azerbaijan; Belarus; Bosnia and Herzegovina; Bulgaria; Croatia; Czech Republic; Estonia; Georgia; Hungary; Kazakhstan; Kyrgyz Rep.; Latvia; Lithuania; Macedonia;  Moldova; Montenegro; Poland; Romania; Russia; Serbia; Slovakia; Slovenia; Tajikistan; Turkmenistan; Ukraine; Uzbekistan. 

The Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) program at the University of Oxford is a multidisciplinary undergraduate degree designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the interconnectedness of philosophical reasoning, political theory, and economic analysis. This program aims to equip students with critical thinking skills, analytical abilities, and a broad perspective on key issues that shape modern society. The curriculum is structured to encourage intellectual curiosity and rigorous inquiry, enabling students to develop a nuanced understanding of the philosophical foundations of political ideologies, the economic principles underlying policy decisions, and the ethical considerations involved in governance and societal development. Students engage with core topics such as moral philosophy, political philosophy, microeconomics, macroeconomics, and contemporary political issues, alongside optional modules that may include history, sociology, international relations, and related disciplines. The program is characterized by its intensive tutorial system, providing personalized guidance and fostering debate and discussion. Graduates of PPE often pursue careers in politics, public policy, journalism, law, academia, and international organizations, benefiting from the versatile and analytical skill set developed during their studies. The program emphasizes critical evaluation of current affairs, the development of independent research capabilities, and the cultivation of a global outlook. Students are also encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities, such as student societies, debating clubs, and internships, to supplement their academic experience. Overall, Oxford's PPE is renowned for its rigorous academic standards, distinguished faculty, and vibrant intellectual environment that prepares students to become informed and engaged citizens and leaders.