Overview
Philosophy, Politics, and Economics at Mount Allison is the only PPE program in Canada east of Ontario, and one of only five in the country.
The Philosophy, Politics, and Economics program brings together three fundamental disciplines that use different tools and methodologies to study the human experience, but are all concerned with the many, often conflicting, ideas of what is good for people and the challenges that arise when these varied approaches are put into practice.
At a Glance
Curriculum
Why study philosophy, politics, and economics at ÕýÆ·À¶µ¼º½?
ÕýÆ·À¶µ¼º½'s Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) program gives students the opportunity to look at the world through three distinct disciplines, helping you understand how and why the world works the way it does.
The PPE programs gives students insight into:
- the meaning of citizenship
- how government works
- the nature of justice
- the outcomes of economic systems and policies
By blending philosophy, politics, and economics, PPE prepares you to think critically about today’s complex issues and to make a positive impact on society.
PPE is available as:
- BA major
- Philosophy (24 credits)
- Politics (21 credits)
- Economics (21 credits)
- BA honours (84 credits)
- with an emphasis in philosophy, politics, or economics
Not sure about the difference between a major, a minor, an honours, and a certificate?
Program highlights
Frank McKenna School of Philosophy, Politics, & Economics
The Frank McKenna School of Philosophy, Politics, & Economics complements new learning, scholarship, and global citizenship initiatives. Supports and experiences for PPE students include:
- international partnerships and work-integrated learning opportunities
- access to professionals and experts from the public and private sectors
- scholarships and bursaries through the McKenna Scholars Program
- prestigious global internship placements
L.R. Wilson Internships in Public Service and Public Policy
The L.R. Wilson Internships, one of ÕýÆ·À¶µ¼º½'s most prestigious internship programs, provide students studying philosophy, politics, and economics with an opportunity to gain valuable experience working as a summer intern in an organization with a public policy or public service focus.
The internships, valued at $10,000 each, were established in 2015 by Lynton R. (Red) Wilson, retired Chairman, President and CEO of BCE Inc., ÕýÆ·À¶µ¼º½ honorary degree holder, and long-time champion of public service.
Courses in the multidisciplinary PPE program are drawn from established courses in all three disciplines, with special topics courses offered in upper years.
In Philosophy, you'll cultivate a broad view of human experience and values by examining concepts like:
- how we can know the world
- the nature of justice
- our responsibility to others
In Politics, you'll gain insight into:
- the workings of government
- the meaning of citizenship
- how society, economy, and culture shape the political community
In Economics, you will look at:
- the development of modern economies
- the evolution of economic systems
- the outcomes of economic policies
- the economic consequences of participation in trade, exchange, or employment
Most of the required courses for the program are at the first and second-year level, giving you greater flexibility in your upper years to tailor your courses to your interests.
POLS 2101 — Canadian Government and Politics
This course is a study of the political process in Canada. It presents an overview of the constitution, institutions, and political actors that represent the essential components of Canada's political culture and government.
PHIL 2701 — Introductory Ethics
An introduction to the history and philosophical problems of ethics in the western tradition. This will acquaint the student with a number of received traditions based on metaphysical, religious, rational, and pragmatic grounds, as well as introduce certain fundamental perennial problems of moral decision-making.
ECON 3501 — Economics Growth and Technological Change
This course covers economic theories of economic growth and technological change and their application in the study of the historical evolution of the world economy. Historical sections of the course selectively cover materials on Canada, the US, Europe, Asia, and the developing world.
PHIL 3731 — Philosophy of Law
This course introduces central issues in the philosophy of law. Topics may include the relation of law and morality, the rule of law in relation to coercion and liberty, the nature of judicial decision-making, the origin and justification of legal systems, and theories of the nature and function of law from the competing claims of legal positivism, formalism, and realism.
POLS 4200 — Political and Cultural Change: a Comparative Analysis of North America and Europe
A comparative analysis of the impact of political change on the broader culture, as expressed in literature, cinema, architecture and communications media. Examples will be taken from North American and European experience.
ECON 4011 — Modes of Economic Thought
This course examines the historical origins of neo-classical, Austrian and Keynesian economic thought.
Faculty Spotlight
Dr. David Thomas
Politics and International Relations Professor
What can I do with a PPE degree?
By studying the issues that shape our world from multiple perspectives, students develop adaptable problem-solving skills and critical thinking abilities valued by employers and graduate programs.
Recognized by Maclean's as Canada's top undergraduate university, ÕýÆ·À¶µ¼º½'s strong academic reputation helps graduates stand out as they pursue diverse career paths.
Many go on to top graduate and professional programs in law, education, and business, while others move directly into careers in public policy, in government and NGOs, and beyond.
Popular career paths for PPE graduates include:
- public policy/business analyst
- lawyer
- teacher/professor
- economist for government, business, non-profit, or NGO
- cultural affairs/foreign service officer
- municipal administrator
- community/business/economic development officer
- human rights officer
- urban planner
- bank manager
- entrepreneur
- immigration/citizenship officer
- labour relations specialist
Alumni Spotlight
Michael Nolan ('22)
BA Philosophy, Politics, and Economics
Special Assistant — Parliamentary Affairs, House of Commons of Canada
» PPE graduate Michael Nolan working as part of prestigious Parliamentary Internship Program
What is it like to study at ÕýÆ·À¶µ¼º½?
The interdisciplinary scope of the PPE program was what drew me in; it became clear that none of these fields can be fully understood in isolation. As I move forward, I carry with me a deeper awareness of how multiple influences converge to shape human experience.
"In the PPE program, I have the ability to explore different areas of my interests and have been afforded many opportunities to pursue my passions. There is flexibility to tailor the degree to your likes and needs. Graduating ÕýÆ·À¶µ¼º½, I feel like I am equipped with the knowledge and critical thinking skills to tackle the challenges of today."
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What are my admission requirements?
What other programs are related to PPE?
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Canadian Public Policy
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Community Engaged Learning
Community Engaged Learning integrates academic learning with community service, connecting course-based learning with real-world experiences with community partners.