BA (Honours) Politics, Philosophy and Economics
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Degree
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Made up of
- 360 credits
Description
How do we give order to society? How can material demands be satisfied? What does justice mean, and on what basis do we define our rights? Politics, philosophy and economics – and the ideas and values that inform them – are central to how modern societies are organised and governed. This degree in politics, philosophy and economics explores fundamental questions of power and ideology, beliefs and values, and how income and wealth are produced and distributed. As well as gaining insight and knowledge of the debates that dominate the daily news, you’ll learn a range of skills and techniques to help you analyse and contribute to the discussion. These analytical and critical skills are highly valued by employers in a broad range of occupations, in both the private and public sectors. You’ll have your own specialist, subject-based support in each subject as well as opportunities to join in online communities of other students on this degree course for teaching, learning and peer support.
How to register
Registration is not yet open for this qualification. For an autumn 2012 start, registration opens on 27 March 2012. If you would like to register your interest, you can order our free guide to studying in 2012.
Career relevance and employability
A degree in politics philosophy and economics is internationally recognised as providing a set of quantitative and conceptual skills particularly relevant for many areas of public service, including civil and diplomatic services and local government. You’ll develop skills enabling you to express your ideas clearly and logically; understand and analyse complex information; and study independently. This degree course is also good preparation for a wide variety of other careers, including banking and finance, politics, journalism and broadcasting, law, industry, teaching, social work, accountancy, business management, management consultancy and advertising.
As well as knowledge of politics, philosophy and economics, you’ll develop valuable skills for employment which include:
- using a range of communication technologies to independently research, select and present information
- analysing and critically evaluating information and data
- writing and communicating concisely and clearly
- assembling reasoned arguments for particular audiences
- using a range of formats: essays, presentations, reports, collaborative working, online forums
- reflecting on your own learning and developing strategies to update your knowledge
- valuing critical feedback to reflect on progress and improve your work
- working under your own steam and without constant direction.
There is more information about how OU study can improve your employability in the OU’s Employability Statement from our Careers Advisory Service. You can also read or download our publication OU study and your career and look at our subject pages to find out about career opportunities.
Learning outcomes
The learning outcomes of this qualification are described in four areas:
- Knowledge and understanding
- Cognitive skills
- Practical and professional skills
- Key skills
Read more detailed information about the learning outcomes, and how they are acquired through teaching, learning and assessment methods.
Credit for previous study elsewhere
If you have already completed some successful study at higher education level at another institution we may be able to give you credit that you can count towards this Open University qualification. Further details will be available when registration opens for this qualification.
Classification of your degree
On successful completion of the required number and type of modules you will be awarded a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Politics Philosophy and Economics degree.
Your honours degree will be classified either as first-class honours, upper second-class honours, lower second-class honours or third-class honours. The class of degree is determined by the best grades you achieve in 240 credits from those modules above Level 1 listed above. At least 120 of those credits must come from modules at Level 3.
You will have the opportunity to attend a degree ceremony.
Fees 2012
See fees and funding options for study from September 2012.
About this page
An undergraduate qualification in Arts and Humanities and Social Sciences.
Study explained
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- Financial support
- - find out if you qualify for support with your fees with our eligibility checker.
- Study explained
- - all you need to know about studying with the OU.
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