Philosophy, Politics, and Economics Major
Why Study Philosophy, Politics, and Economics at Virginia Tech?
Our world faces problems that often cut across the boundaries of academic programs. Questions concerning market regulations, responsibilities of non-profit organizations, environmental sustainability, poverty, and global justice are all concepts that can only be considered through multiple perspectives. A major in philosophy, politics, and economics provides such analysis. You will develop comprehensive solutions that are economically sound, socially, ethically, and politically informed to solve complex problems.
3
Core Academic Disiplines
50+
Courses
100%
Student Research Participation
Robert Marsters, '14
Robert, while majoring in philosophy and political science, interned with the United States Geological Survey's Landsat Remote Sensing Program. The effective communication skills learned in his classes and internship experience supported him during law school at the University of Virginia. He's currently an associate at Milbank, a V50 law firm headquartered in New York.
Meg Tylenda, ’21
Meg completed majors in philosophy and sociology with minors in global engagement and peace studies and violence prevention. She studied abroad in Switzerland through the European Affairs in the Global Context program where she completed a field study on socioeconomic divide in London boroughs through the Brexit Referendum and research for the Diplomacy Lab. Meg is attending Albany Law School with a future goal of working in international law.
Careers and Further Study
What can you do with a major in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics?
Jobs Held by Our Graduates
- Management
- Marketing
- Consulting
- Investment banking
- Finance
- Business administration
- Law
- Journalism
- Government
- Public administration
- Public policy
- Healthcare
- International affairs
- International development
- Non-profit organizations
PPE Major at Virginia Tech
07:13
Beyond the Classroom
Experiential Learning
You will develop an advanced research project that considers the interaction between philosophy, politics, and economics. You will work closely with a faculty mentor to plan a course of action, discuss your findings, and write a report on a topic that interests you.
You also have the opportunity to submit your original research to The Philosophy, Politics, and Economics Review for publication.
Study abroad at places like Oxford University or at Virginia Tech’s Steger Center. Programs offer collaborative research communities that provide immersive cultural experiences.
While working under the guidance of a faculty member and an experienced professional in the employing agency, students have the opportunity to transfer their knowledge to a profession.
You will have the opportunity to attend a speaker series that brings scholars and experts in the field to campus. Network with your peers and professionals as you integrate your classroom knowledge with real world challenges.
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Our program offers an innovative research and learning environment that allows faculty and students to work collaboratively on problems of tomorrow’s world. There are 35 faculty members from different departments who are dedicated to working with you. Whether you are interested in philosophy, political science, economics, management, or marketing, you will find a faculty member to guide you.
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Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy Degree
- Including Virginia Tech's Pathways
Philosophy, Politics and Economics Major Requirements
- Political Theory
- Comparative Political Economy
- Introduction to U.S. Government
- The Theory of Games and Economic Behavior
- Public Finance
- Economic Justice
Minor and Elective Hours
Our program gives you the opportunity to build knowledge in another area by pursuing a minor, double major, or cognate.
120 hrs
B.A. Philosophy
45 hrs
General Education
45-48 hrs
Major Requirements
27-30 hrs
Elective
Campus Life
Campus Life
Discover all that Virginia Tech has to offer inside and outside of the classroom. Our campus life aims to build communities, promote holistic education, and cultivate environments that offer opportunities for leadership, innovation, and service.