A modern degree with a broad interdisciplinary focus

The PPE programme combines the subjects of philosophy, political science and economics, and aims to develop the students’ skills at understanding, reflecting on and critically evaluating complex socio-political issues from a broad perspective. The combination of these three subjects provides a theoretical basis from which to understand contemporary societal phenomena and their specific philosophical, political and economic implications.

Philosophy, political science and economics share a common history, from early theories on reason, the state, democracy and economics through the Enlightenment tradition and on. The integration of practical and theoretical philosophy in the study of philosophy at Södertörn University provides a broad education in philosophy with historical depth. In addition, the subject’s specialisation in the modern continental-European tradition offers a useful basis for a future career on the international labour market. The PPE programme at Södertörn University further offers a specialisation within the field of economics – sustainable development and environmental economics.

Study contemporary societal phenomena from wide-ranging perspectives

The programme covers three years of study. In the first year, students study philosophy and political science, and in the third semester of the programme they study economics. The three first semesters include three programme-specific PPE courses.

To maintain the programme’s interdisciplinarity, students are offered guest lectures and study visits that expand on the knowledge they gain on the courses. After the three introductory semesters, students specialise in one of the subjects with a further year of studies (60 credits), as well as 30 credits in one of the other two subjects. As part of the programme, students may also study one of the three subjects abroad for a semester.

Expertise for many different professions

Many professions now require a broad range of expertise, including knowledge in the social sciences and the humanities. As the labour market has become more individualised and where the volume of information has risen, there is increasing demand for the ability to evaluate and orient yourself in new information environments in a manner that is fit for purpose. This demands comprehensive approach and the capacity to make well-informed decisions – skills you will develop while studying this programme.

The PPE programme provides students with a solid foundation and knowledge in a broad field of the social sciences, good evaluation skills and deep insight into how humans and societies function and change. Possible areas of work include sustainable development, politics, public administration, finance, advisory services, organisations, media and education.