UCAS code L0V0
Philosophy, Politics and Economics unites three disciplines that are foundational to public life and policy. Nowadays, anyone hoping to understand or advance in politics has to be proficient in economics, and an understanding of the philosophical underpinnings of the various political views that jostle on the public stage has long been recognised as hugely important.
Explore the connections between Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) and develop the skills to understand and respond to some of the most important challenges facing society. This interdisciplinary degree brings together three subjects that shape public life, policy, and decision-making, giving you the opportunity to examine complex issues from different perspectives.
Year in Industry
This programme can also be studied over four years, with the third year spent on a relevant, salaried work placement (UCAS code: L0V1). Visit the BA Philosophy, Politics and Economics with a Year in Industry course page for further information.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
Students take 3 year-long 30 credit modules. These are: ECON104 Mathematics, Statistics and Data Analysis for Business and Economics; ECON105 Introduction to Economics; PHIL128 Ethics and Political Philosophy. Students also take the 15 credit modules HASS100 PPE Skills (semester 1) and POLI117 Public Policy and Ethics (semester 2).
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change. This course has been updated for 2027 entry as part of a review of all our programmes. This review has considered refining study pathways, strengthening links with employers, integrating generative AI, developing students’ research skills, and enhancing alignment with our research strengths. Please note, as at all times, the University reserves the right to make reasonable changes, including to content, entry requirements, or fees, or to discontinue programmes. Applicants will be informed of any significant change.
Students cannot take both PHIL271 Business Ethics and PHIL272 Business Ethics, but are required to do one of them. Students must take SOTA260 if doing PPE with a year in industry.
If not taking PHIL271, students take at most one of the following:
If not taking PHIL272 Business Ethics, students take at most one of the following:
The following additional module in year two will be added shortly:
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| MACROECONOMICS 1 (ECON223) | 15 |
| MICROECONOMICS FOR BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS 1 (ECON227) | 15 |
| MICROECONOMICS 2 (ECON222) | 15 |
| BEHAVIOURAL ECONOMICS (ECON251) | 15 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change. This course has been updated for 2027 entry as part of a review of all our programmes. This review has considered refining study pathways, strengthening links with employers, integrating generative AI, developing students’ research skills, and enhancing alignment with our research strengths. Please note, as at all times, the University reserves the right to make reasonable changes, including to content, entry requirements, or fees, or to discontinue programmes. Applicants will be informed of any significant change.
Students must take 60 credits in each semester. Whole year modules weighted at 30 credits count as 15 credits per semester.
All students must take HASS300 Philosophy, Politics and Economics in the Workplace or HASS301 Philosophy, Politics and Economics Dissertation (whole year modules – 30 credits). Students taking SOTA600 (Year in Industry) are not eligible for HASS300 and must take HASS301.
Across the year as a whole, students (a) may select options from any two, or all three, of the disciplines Politics, Philosophy and Economics, but (b) must in total do no more than 60 optional credits in any one discipline.
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change. This course has been updated for 2027 entry as part of a review of all our programmes. This review has considered refining study pathways, strengthening links with employers, integrating generative AI, developing students’ research skills, and enhancing alignment with our research strengths. Please note, as at all times, the University reserves the right to make reasonable changes, including to content, entry requirements, or fees, or to discontinue programmes. Applicants will be informed of any significant change.
You’ll learn through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, and guided activities, with teaching designed to encourage active participation, discussion, and independent thinking.
In your first year, teaching is highly scaffolded, helping you develop the core knowledge and skills needed for university-level study. As you progress, you’ll take part in more enquiry-led, problem-based, and collaborative learning, applying ideas and methods from Philosophy, Politics, and Economics to complex questions and real-world contexts.
Teaching takes place on the University of Liverpool’s campus, with digital technologies also supporting learning, research, data analysis, and the development of digital and AI-related skills. Small-group teaching, academic advising, formative feedback, and peer learning provide opportunities to discuss ideas, work collaboratively, and receive guidance from staff.
In your final year, there is a stronger emphasis on independent study and research-informed learning. You’ll undertake a compulsory capstone project, either a work-placement project or a dissertation, supported through supervision and structured guidance. Across the programme, you’ll be expected to become increasingly confident in directing your own learning, researching independently and applying evidence and critical judgement.
You’ll be assessed in a variety of ways throughout the degree, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of Philosophy, Politics, and Economics. Assessment includes written, oral, digital, applied, and research-based work, giving you opportunities to demonstrate your knowledge, analytical and communication skills, as well as your ability to apply ideas to complex problems.
In your first year, assessment focuses on developing core skills such as analysis, reasoning, communication, and the use of evidence. As you progress into your second year, assessments become more enquiry-led and applied, asking you to engage with more complex problems and competing perspectives.
In your final year, there is a greater emphasis on intellectual independence, interdisciplinary thinking, and sustained independent research. You complete a capstone module, choosing between a work placement and a dissertation. The capstone runs across the whole academic year and provides an opportunity to bring together knowledge and skills from across the three disciplines in a substantial piece of applied or research-led independent work.
Overall, assessment is progressively scaffolded, with formative feedback provided through activities such as workshops, seminars, and tutorials; summative feedback is normally provided within four working weeks of submission.
At Liverpool, we take a distinctive approach to education through the Liverpool Learning Framework. This means teaching that is engaging, inclusive and designed to help you succeed during your studies and beyond.
You’ll develop specialist subject knowledge alongside the skills employers value most, including:
Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:
We also embed key priorities across our curriculum, including AI literacy, employability, and sustainability, helping you prepare for the future and make a positive impact in the world.
We’re committed to creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive.
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
University of Liverpool students can choose from an exciting range of study placements at partner universities worldwide. Choose to spend a year at XJTLU in China or a year or semester at an institution of your choice.
Immerse yourself in Chinese culture on an optional additional year at Xi'an Jiaotong Liverpool University in stunning Suzhou.
Broaden your world by spending an additional year of study at a partner university abroad following your second year of study.
Take a semester of your second year of study at one of our worldwide partner institutions.
Spend a summer abroad on a study placement or research project at one of our worldwide partner institutions.
Year in industry placements give you an in-depth workplace experience where you can develop your skills and apply your learning.
If you'd like to undertake a year in industry, you can transfer to Philosophy, Politics and Economics with a Year in Industry BA (Hons) during your studies, subject to meeting the academic requirements of your course.
To spend a year in industry, you'll need to secure a placement with an organisation. If you're unable to find a placement, you'll continue with the standard version of the course without a year in industry.
Every student at The University of Liverpool can study a language as part of, or alongside their degree. You can choose:
The Department of Philosophy is based in Gillian Howie House, although teaching will take place across the campus. Gillian Howie House is an accessible and inclusive space. We have ramp and lift access to all floors, single sex, gender neutral and disabled toilets, and a Hearing Assist System in our seminar rooms. Students who require one can ask for a disability support plan and access to dedicated support.
From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:
The interdisciplinary nature appealed to me. It provided me with a wide range of angles to approach both my modules and the wider world. I really enjoyed the Political Philosophy and International Political Economy modules.
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Chat with our student ambassadors and ask any questions you have.
Graduating with a degree in philosophy will empower you to delve into the profound questions that shape human existence but also position you as a valuable asset in today’s competitive job market.
The School has its own placements and employability officer, and you will have the opportunity to undertake a work placement or a year in industry as part of your programme.
Graduates in Philosophy obtain work in fields such as:
Hear what graduates say about their career progression and life after university.
US District Judge Wendy Beetlestone described her time at University of Liverpool as a “great start” that delivered the “thought discipline” that continues to influence her professional life.
Emma is a Production Management Assistant on the One Show.
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Full-time place, per year - £10,050
Year in industry fee - £2,010
Year abroad fee - £1,508 (applies to year in China)
Full-time place, per year - £27,000
Year in industry fee - £1,955
Year abroad fee - £13,500 (applies to year in China)
The UK fees shown are for the academic year 2027/28. The international fees shown are for the academic year 2026/27 and will be subject for change for the academic year 2027/28. Please be advised that tuition fees may increase each year for both UK and international students. For UK students, this will be subject to the government’s regulated fee limits.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support. Learn more about paying for your studies.
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. You can find information on the general and subject-specific costs you could expect to incur on our study costs webpage.
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition and living expenses.
4 scholarships are available each year to support undergraduate applicants from socio-economically under-represented backgrounds who permanently reside in the Liverpool City Region. Successful applicants will receive a stipend of £5,000 per year for 3 years. Applications open in August 2026.
This scholarship will support undergraduate students from widening participation backgrounds in the Department of Languages, Cultures and Film with their year abroad.
This award offers £3,000 per year for a UK undergraduate student from an under-represented background who has successfully completed the Liverpool Scholars or Pathways to Medicine programme.
If you’re a UK student joining an undergraduate degree and have a household income below £35,000, you could be eligible for a Liverpool Bursary worth up to £2,000 for each year of undergraduate study.
Apply for an Asylum Seekers Scholarship and you could have your tuition fees paid in full and receive help with study costs. You’ll need to have applied for asylum in the UK, or be the dependant of an asylum seeker, and be joining an eligible undergraduate degree.
If you’ve spent 13 or more weeks in Local Authority care since age 14, you could be eligible for a bursary of £3,000 per year of study. You’ll need to be a UK student joining an eligible undergraduate degree and be aged 28 or above on 1 September in the year you start.
Are you a UK student with a Black African or Caribbean heritage and a household income of £25,000 or less? You could be eligible to apply for a Cowrie Foundation Scholarship worth up to £8,000 for each year of undergraduate study.
If you’re a UK student identified as estranged by Student Finance England (or the equivalent UK funding body), you could be eligible for a bursary of £1,000 for each year of undergraduate study.
Do you live in the Liverpool City Region with a household income of £25,000 or less? Did neither of your parents attend University? You could be eligible to apply for a Nolan Scholarship worth £5,000 per year for three years of undergraduate study.
Are you a UK student with a household income of £25,000 or less? If you’ve participated in an eligible outreach programme, you could be eligible to apply for a Rigby Enterprise Award worth £5,000 per year for three years of your undergraduate degree.
Are you a UK student with a household income of £26,500 or less? Did neither of your parents attend University? You could be eligible to apply for a ROLABOTIC Scholarship worth £4,500 for each year of your undergraduate degree.
Apply to receive tailored training support to enhance your sporting performance. Our athlete support package includes a range of benefits, from bespoke strength and conditioning training to physiotherapy sessions and one-to-one nutritional advice.
If you’re a young adult and a registered carer in the UK, you might be eligible for a £1,000 bursary for each year of study. You’ll need to be aged 18-25 on 1 September in the year you start your undergraduate degree.
The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| A levels |
AAB You may automatically qualify for reduced entry requirements through our contextual offers scheme. Based on your personal circumstances, you may automatically qualify for up to a two-grade reduction in the entry requirements needed for this course. When you apply, we consider a range of factors – such as where you live – to assess if you’re eligible for a grade reduction. You don’t have to make an application for a grade reduction – we’ll do all the work. Find out more about how we make reduced grade offers. |
| T levels |
T levels are not currently accepted. |
| GCSE |
GCSE Mathematics at grade 7/A and GCSE English at grade 4/C required. |
| BTEC | DDD |
| International Baccalaureate | 34 points overall with no score less than 4 or pass the IB Diploma plus 6,6,5 in 3 HL subjects. |
| Irish Leaving Certificate | H1,H1,H2,H2,H2,H3 |
| Scottish Higher/Advanced Higher | AAB |
| Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced | B in the Welsh Baccalaureate, plus grades AA at A level |
| Access | Pass relevant Access to HE Diploma with 45 Level 3 credits with 36 at Distinction and 9 at (at least) M |
| International qualifications |
Many countries have a different education system to that of the UK, meaning your qualifications may not meet our direct entry requirements. Although there is no direct Foundation Certificate route to this course, completing a Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, can guarantee you a place on a number of similar courses which may interest you. |
You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.
We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.5 overall, with no component below 5.5 |
| TOEFL iBT | If you took a TOEFL test on or before 20 January 2026, you’ll need 88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 17, writing 17, reading 17 and speaking 19. If you took a TOEFL test from 21 January 2026 onwards, when a new scoring system was introduced, you’ll need 4.5 overall, with 4 or above in all components. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted. |
| Duolingo English Test | 125 overall, with speaking, reading and writing not less than 105, and listening not below 100 |
| Pearson PTE Academic | 61 overall, with no component below 59 |
| LanguageCert Academic | 70 overall, with no skill below 60 |
| Cambridge IGCSE First Language English 0500 | Grade C overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking and listening. Speaking and listening must be separately endorsed on the certificate. |
| Cambridge IGCSE First Language English 0990 | Grade 4 overall, with Merit in speaking and listening |
| Cambridge IGCSE Second Language English 0510/0511 | 0510: Grade B overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking. Speaking must be separately endorsed on the certificate. 0511: Grade B overall. |
| Cambridge IGCSE Second Language English 0993/0991 | 0993: Grade 6 overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking. Speaking must be separately endorsed on the certificate. 0991: Grade 6 overall. |
| Cambridge ESOL Level 2/3 Advanced | 176 overall, with no paper below 162 |
| International Baccalaureate English A: Literature or Language & Literature | Grade 5 at Standard Level or grade 5 at Higher Level |
| International Baccalaureate English B | Grade 7 at Standard Level or grade 6 at Higher Level |
Do you need to complete a Pre-sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
If you don’t meet our English language requirements, we can use your most recent IELTS score, or the equivalent score in selected other English language tests, to determine the length of Pre-sessional English course you require.
Use the table below to check the course length you're likely to require for your current English language ability and see whether the course is available on campus or online.
| Your most recent IELTS score | Pre-sessional English course length | On campus or online |
|---|---|---|
| 6.0 overall, with no component below 5.5 | 6 weeks | On campus or online |
| 5.5 overall, with no more than one component at 5.0 | 10 weeks | On campus or online |
| 5.5 overall, with no component below 5.0 | 12 weeks | Online |
| 5.0 overall, with no component below 5.0 | 20 weeks | On campus |
| 5.0 overall, with no component below 4.5 | 30 weeks | On campus |
| 4.5 overall, with no more than one component at 4.0 | 40 weeks | On campus |
If you’ve completed an alternative English language test to IELTS, we may be able to use this to assess your English language ability and determine the Pre-sessional English course length you require.
Please see our guide to Pre-sessional English entry requirements for IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 5.5, for further details.
Have a question about this course or studying with us? Our dedicated enquiries team can help.
Last updated 26 August 2026 / / Programme terms and conditions