Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE)


PPE brings together three disciplines, giving students insight into the meaning of citizenship, how government works, the nature of justice, and the outcomes of economic systems and policies.

Overview

PPE brings together three disciplines, giving students insight into the meaning of citizenship, how government works, the nature of justice, and the outcomes of economic systems and policies.

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

Degree options
Bachelor of Arts (BA), major or honours

Curriculum

At Mount Allison, 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.

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?

Frank McKenna School of Philosophy, Politics, & Economics

The new 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

Faculty Spotlight

Careers

Whether you're entering the job market or continuing your education, your Mount Allison degree will stand out.

Mount Allison has been recognized by Maclean's as the top primarily undergraduate university in Canada more times than any other university.

PPE helps students develop critical-thinking skills that will serve them well no matter their chosen career, offering students the opportunity of a multidisciplinary immersion in the problems that structure the human world.

Our graduates also boast extraordinarily high acceptance rates to top graduate programs and professional schools such as law and medicine.

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

Testimonials

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"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 Mount Allison, I feel like I am equipped with the knowledge and critical thinking skills to tackle the challenges of today."


Olivia
Hart
'24
Philosophy, Politics, and Economics
Cape Breton, NS
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"PPE prepares you to think in a lot of different ways and sets you up to challenge yourself. The program and the research work I did at Mount Allison are invaluable."


Michael
Nolan
'22
Philosophy, Politics, and Economics
Truro, NS

Extras

L.R. Wilson Internships in Public Service and Public Policy

The L.R. Wilson Internships, one of Mount Allison'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., Mount Allison honorary degree holder, and long-time champion of public service.

/current-students/department-philosophy

Bachelor of Arts

Admission Requirements

Our admissions decisions are based on your academic record, leadership skills, a high level of commitment, and the potential for personal growth. The drop down menu below will help you find information on what pre-requisites are recommended for a Bachelor of Arts.

Academic Awards

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Mount A is #2 in student awards


Maclean’s ranks Mount Allison second in student and faculty awards in its latest University Rankings. To date, 56 Mount Allison students have become Rhodes Scholars — one of the best per capita records in Canada.

Next Steps

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