Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

The PPE degree integrates three core disciplines so that you develop conceptual clarity, empirical skills and practical understanding. In the early stages you take foundational modules in political theory, comparative and British politics, introductory micro- and macro-economics, and core areas of philosophy such as ethics, logic and epistemology. Quantitative methods and research skills are taught alongside substantive courses so you can apply statistical and econometric techniques to political and economic questions.

Across the programme you will study a mix of compulsory and optional modules. Typical topics include:

• Political Theory and Contemporary Political Ideas
• Comparative Politics and International Relations
• Microeconomics, Macroeconomics and Public Finance
• Ethics, Political Philosophy and Philosophy of Mind
• Research Design, Quantitative Methods and Data Analysis
• Public Policy, Governance and Development
• Applied modules such as environmental policy, law and society, health policy, or media and politics

Assessment is typically by a mixture of essays, unseen examinations, data projects, group work and presentations. In the final year you usually complete a substantial piece of independent work (a dissertation or extended project) that allows you to pursue an interdisciplinary question in depth.

Many students also have the option to take a placement or sandwich year to gain work experience in government, NGOs, think tanks, or the private sector, and there are opportunities for short-term study abroad depending on available partnerships.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally have a strong set of secondary school qualifications appropriate to university entry in their country. Oxford Brookes considers a range of qualifications including A‑levels, the International Baccalaureate, BTEC, Access to HE Diplomas and equivalent international credentials. Admissions decisions take account of subject mix, personal statement, reference and any relevant experience.

Successful applicants typically demonstrate numeracy (or the willingness to develop quantitative skills), strong written and critical thinking ability, and an interest in public affairs, ethics and policy. Mature students and applicants with relevant work experience are welcomed; English language requirements apply for applicants whose first language is not English.

Career prospects

PPE graduates develop a broad skillset valued by employers: critical reasoning, written and verbal communication, statistical literacy and policy analysis. Common career paths include roles in public policy and government, civil service and local government, campaigning and advocacy for NGOs, think tanks and international organisations, and research and analysis in the private sector.

Graduates also move into journalism, public affairs and communications, management consultancy, and financial services; many go on to professional training in law or teaching, or pursue postgraduate study in subjects such as public policy, international relations, economics or philosophy.

Oxford Brookes provides careers support including employer links, placement assistance, and help preparing applications for graduate schemes and further study.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes offers a PPE programme delivered within a friendly, teaching-focused environment where students benefit from small-group seminars as well as larger lectures. The university emphasises employability and applied learning, with practical modules, research-led teaching and opportunities for work placements and internships.

Studying in Oxford gives PPE students access to a rich public life: think tanks, cultural institutions, and a range of public and private sector organisations offer guest lectures, internships and networking opportunities. The university’s library and learning services, dedicated careers team, and active student societies support academic development and extracurricular engagement across the three disciplines.

Finally, Oxford Brookes encourages interdisciplinary collaboration across humanities, social sciences and business, helping PPE students tailor their degree to specific interests—whether that is public policy, ethics, international development or economic analysis—and preparing them for a variety of graduate destinations.