Philosophy, Politics, & Economics
PPE is an interdisciplinary, rigorous, and partly self-designed course of study that explores the foundations of political and economic thought and connects them to today’s world.
You’ll graduate prepared for careers in business, government, or academia.
John McHugh
,Associate Professor, Director, Philosophy, Politics, & Economics Progr…
Jessica S. Bean
,Associate Professor, Chair of Economics
Heather N. Pool
,Associate Professor, Chair of Politics & Public Affairs
What you’ll study as a PPE major
Explore the political and economic policy decisions on real-world issues like resource distribution, human behavior, and what constitutes a just society, through three interwoven disciplines.
The basics
Start with courses that provide a foundational understanding of philosophy, politics, and economics and their interplay.
Shape your major
Focus on political theory from ancient to contemporary times, the history of economic thought, or modern-day business ethics.
Explore through electives
Advanced courses might include theories of justice, the evolution of the Western economy, and American political thought.
Why is PPE better at Denison?
You can design your major
You will take the lead and craft your own academic experience. PPE majors must propose a formal course of study and an overarching theme that serves as a road map for coursework.
Senior research
Articulate your findings and hone your communication skills on a senior research project that builds on the line of study you have chosen.
Close faculty mentorship
You’ll collaborate closely with experts and faculty from three academic fields as you choose your focus and conduct research.
Jobs as a PPE major
A Denison PPE degree will prepare you for jobs in government and business. Alumni have gone on to work for the Senate and Bloomberg as consultants and lobbyists, and with law firms and nonprofits. See where our grads have landed.
Career communities
PPE majors often join one or more of our career communities. Some common communities include Visual, Written, & Performing Arts, and Marketing, Sales,& Communication.
Career Exploration
Through the Knowlton Center for Career Exploration and its training center, Denison Edge, career coaches help you prepare for the next step after college, and industry experts help you acquire specialized skills and certifications.
Beyond the Classroom
Internships
Denison PPE majors have interned with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Ohio Environmental Council, Embassy of El Salvador, The Chicago Council of Global Affairs, and more.
Study Abroad
Study in your chosen region to enhance your language skills and cultural agility while building your career network. Conduct research during a semester abroad or complete a summer internship in another country.
Summer Scholars
Delve into independent research through our Summer Scholars program. All Summer Scholars receive a stipend and a housing allowance plus supplemental funds for research expenses.
Spotlights
What's Happening
Departmental Fellows
New fellowship supports student research
Awards & Honors
Maddy Murphy '23 honored with the 2023 Kussmaul Award
President's Medalists
Madeleine Murphy ’23: President’s Medalist
More From Denison
Denison Seminars
Denison Seminars
Study Abroad
Study Abroad
Living at Denison
Living at Denison
Career Exploration
Career Exploration