4-Term Pathway - International Foundation Year in Social Sciences and Humanities - Continue to Bachelor of Arts - Philosophy, Politics and Economics

This program will prepare students for entry to Year 1 of an undergraduate degree in a wide range of subjects, including many based at the £10m LICA building. Popular subjects include law, film studies, sociology, linguistics and politics.

The BA (Hons) Philosophy, Politics and Economics lets students explore the events and ideas that make up the world today. How are societies and political institutions influenced by economic forces? What difference do ideas and ideologies make? How do international treaties and conflicts shape people’s lives?

Three Ways to Explore the World

In this course, students will explore philosophical arguments, analyse political structures, and engage with economic models. They’ll gain a better understanding of the world, as well as developing critical and reasoning skills and abilities to communicate clearly and articulately.

The broad scope of the department means students can study ethics and society, political institutions and financial markets. Students can explore Indian philosophical thought as well as Western approaches. They also have the option of adding an International Relations element to their politics studies to develop a truly global perspective.

Tailor the degree

With the support of their supervisor, students will have the freedom to define the topic of their dissertation in their third year. Previous students have researched a range of subjects including bitcoin and crypto currencies, long-termism and sustainability, and the justification of war.

Students can apply for one of the internships offered every year by the Richardson Institute for Peace Studies, based in the department. These are research projects in external organisations such as NGOs, think tanks, charities and faith-based organisations. They’ll also support students in finding placement opportunities in a range of organisations, from roles in arts and heritage organisations, to media and marketing agencies.

The University usually runs short, overseas study trips to give students the chance to experience a different culture. In the past these have included Malaysia, India, Ghana, China and the US, where we visited the J.F.K Presidential library, the United Nations and the 9/11 Memorial Museum.

Placement Year

Sometimes known as a year in industry, the placement year will take place between the second and final year of study and this will extend the degree to four years.