Philosophy Politics and Economics Major
Learn to address interdisciplinary decision-making problems that lie at the intersection of philosophy, politics, and economics. Explore markets, economic growth, social justice, and democracy.
3
CORE ACADEMIC DISCIPLINES
50+
COURSES
100%
STUDENT RESEARCH PARTICIPATION
35+
FACULTY
Total Credit Hours: 120
Philosophy, Politics, and Economics Major
Courses (45 Hours)
General Education Requirements (45 Hours)
Electives (30 Hours)
What You'll Study
- 120 credit hours for a bachelor of arts degree, including Virginia Tech's pathways.
- 24 credits of core courses, including:
- Political Theory
- Comparative Political Economy
- Introduction to U.S. Government
- The Theory of Games and Economic Behavior
- Public Finance
- Economic Justice
- 21 credits of philosophy courses, including:
- Knowledge and Reality
- Modern Logic
- Morality and Justice
- Philosophy of Mind
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What is a Degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics?
You will study some of the most important social, ethical, economic, and political problems that our contemporary societies face. Our program thinks about the wellbeing of individuals and societies in the 21st century. You will have the opportunity to take classes from many different disciplines and complete a research project.
Why Study Philosophy, Politics, and Economics?
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.
Beyond the Classroom
Undergraduate Research
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.
Internships
By working in the field, you'll earn job experience and apply your knowledge. You will have the opportunity to explore potential career paths and network with professionals.
Get Involved
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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Collaborate
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.
What Our Students Are Saying
“My experience with the PPE Program has been metamorphic, and I believe that the combination of curricula, the speaker series, and the chance to be an ambassador, make this program unrivaled.”
Tessa Dean, '18
Careers and Further Study
Tessa Dean, '18
Tessa has taken classes in subjects ranging from Philosophy of the Mind, to Geography of East Asia, to Microeconomics. In these courses, she gained a different perspective of the world and learned how to approach and resolve conflict. Tessa believes that this program prepares students to work in some of the most competitive global markets.
Melanie Sherrill, '22
Melanie served as a college representative in the Student Senate and completed research with the VT Student Success Center and Dr. Snegovaya. She has completed internships working in financial development for political nonprofits, educational nonprofits, and most recently the U.S. Department of State as an accountant. She will continue her accounting internship while completing graduate school at Virginia Tech in Agricultural and Applied Economics.
Shane Lee, '22
Shane Lee completed a dual degree in Political Science & PPE with a minor in Philosophy. Throughout his time at Virginia Tech he has served as a Recruitment Ambassador for the College of Liberal Arts and Human Science and worked with multiple cultural organizations and is a member of the Undergraduate Research Excellence Program. Through internships, Shane has worked with non-profits, large utility companies, and trade associations. After graduation, Shane will be working at a prominent non-profit in Washington D.C. working to push for Climate Policy.
What do I do with a philosophy, politics, and economics major?
Our program prepares students for a variety of careers as well as graduate and professional school.
Our graduates pursue careers in:
- Management
- Marketing
- Consulting
- Investment banking
- Finance
- Business administration
- Law
- Journalism
- Government
- Public administration
- Public policy
- Healthcare
- International affairs
- International development
- Non-profit organizations
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