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.
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.
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:
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.
The learning outcomes of this qualification are described in four areas:
Read more detailed information about the learning outcomes, and how they are acquired through teaching, learning and assessment methods.
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.
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.
See fees and funding options for study from September 2012.
An undergraduate qualification in Arts and Humanities and Social Sciences.
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