Northern Arizona University

What you'll study

This programme integrates three core areas: philosophy (formal logic, ethics, political philosophy), politics (American government, comparative politics, public policy) and economics (microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics). Students build skills in argumentation and ethical analysis, understand political structures and policy processes, and learn economic models and empirical techniques to analyse real-world problems.

• Philosophy modules typically cover logic and critical reasoning, moral and political philosophy, philosophy of law and contemporary ethical issues.
• Politics modules commonly include courses on American politics, political theory, comparative government, public administration and policy analysis.
• Economics modules usually involve microeconomic and macroeconomic theory, quantitative methods, and applied topics such as public finance or development economics.
• Research and methods components teach statistical and econometric methods, qualitative research techniques, and seminars that require original written work or projects.
• Capstone or integrative experience often requires a senior seminar, thesis, or applied project that synthesises insights from all three disciplines.

Programme structure

The degree combines core courses across the three disciplines, elective options to allow depth in a chosen area, and general education requirements. Students can expect a mix of lectures, small seminars, lab-style quantitative classes and opportunities for supervised research or internships to gain practical experience.

Entry requirements

Admission to the programme follows the university's undergraduate entry standards. Typical expectations include a completed secondary education or equivalent, satisfactory overall academic record and coursework in key preparatory subjects. Applicants with strong analytical skills who have taken mathematics, social studies and English in secondary school will be well placed.

• Standard application materials include school transcripts and any required university application forms.
• Admissions decisions may consider GPA, course rigor, personal statements and any relevant extracurricular experience such as debate, student government or volunteer work.
• Transfer students are usually able to apply previous college credit; students with AP, IB or other qualifying exam results may be eligible for advanced standing in particular courses.
• Specific programme advisement is available for applicants uncertain about course selection or preparatory requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates of a Philosophy, Politics and Economics degree develop a versatile skill set valued across multiple sectors. Employers seek their analytical reasoning, policy literacy and quantitative competence.

• Public sector and policy — roles in local, state or federal government, policy analysis, legislative staff, and public administration.
• Law and advocacy — preparation for law school, public interest organisations, NGOs and lobbying roles.
• Business and finance — positions in management, consulting, market analysis and financial services that require critical thinking and data interpretation.
• Research and academia — further study in economics, political science, philosophy or interdisciplinary fields leading to research or teaching careers.
• International and non-profit work — project management, programme evaluation and roles in international development or human rights organisations.

Why study at Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University offers an environment well suited to an interdisciplinary PPE education: relatively small class sizes that encourage discussion, faculty with interests across philosophy, politics and economics, and opportunities for applied learning in the region. Flagstaff’s proximity to state institutions and civic organisations supports internship and public engagement possibilities.

• Faculty mentorship and opportunities for collaborative research and student-led projects.
• Hands-on learning through internships, community-engaged research and practicum experiences.
• Access to quantitative training and resources, including computer labs and statistical software support, to develop empirical skills.
• Campus resources for career development, including advising for graduate school or professional pathways and support for experiential learning and internships.