Philosophy, Politics, and Economics, B.A.

Program Details

Department: Philosophy
Modality: In-Person
Concentrations: n/a
Semester Hours: 52

The Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) major at Loyola Marymount University is designed to equip students to analyze and address complex societal challenges through the focused and integrated study of philosophy, political science, and economics.

By engaging the ethical foundations of governance and economic systems, students develop the ability to think critically about public institutions, policy decisions, and global economic dynamics. The program fosters strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, enabling students to assess issues such as inequality, representation, economic stability, and social responsibility from multiple perspectives.

Rooted in LMU’s Jesuit mission, the PPE major emphasizes ethical reasoning, cultural awareness, and a commitment to social justice and the common good. Through interdisciplinary coursework and global engagement, students gain a broad understanding of diverse value systems and the interconnected nature of contemporary challenges.

Graduates are prepared to lead with integrity and compassion in public service, policy, law, business, and other professional or academic fields, bringing thoughtful, informed leadership to the communities they serve.

The Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) major seeks to develop ethically grounded, analytically prepared, and globally aware leaders prepared to address complex public challenges through interdisciplinary inquiry and service-oriented engagement.

1. Ethical Reasoning and Decision-Making
   Students will critically analyze and apply ethical theories to complex political, economic, and social issues, demonstrating a commitment to ethical public service.

2. Interdisciplinary Integration
   Students will integrate knowledge and methods from philosophy, political science, and economics to develop comprehensive and informed solutions to public policy and service challenges.

3. Understanding Public Institutions
   Students will demonstrate knowledge of key institutions and structures that shape political and economic choices, policies, and societal outcomes.

4. Commitment to Public Service
   Students will cultivate a sustained commitment to public service, reflected in meaningful community engagement and civic participation.

5. Effective Communication
   Students will develop strong oral and written communication skills, enabling them to clearly articulate ideas, advocate for policies, and engage diverse audiences in the public sphere.

6. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving
   Students will employ critical thinking to evaluate real-world issues and use interdisciplinary approaches to propose innovative and practical solutions.

7. Global and Cultural Awareness
   Students will demonstrate proficiency in a second language and an understanding of global cultures, preparing them to engage effectively in international and multicultural contexts.

8. Jesuit Values and Leadership
   Students will embody Jesuit values such as social justice, compassion, and service to others, demonstrating ethical, reflective leadership oriented toward the common good.

Major Requirements

At entry to the University, students may declare the major or minor through the Office of Admission. LMU students wishing thereafter to declare the major or minor must meet with the chair. The chair will ordinarily sign the student’s Change of Program petition, provided the student meets certain academic standards that include having a minimum GPA of 2.0 (C) and not otherwise being on academic probation.

Academic Plan

The normal course load is 16 semester hours (4 classes). By following the model below, a student will complete all lower division core requirements by the end of the sophomore year. Note that core areas are suggested to provide a distribution of various disciplines every semester. Please be flexible implementing these suggestions given your own interests and course availability. In four years, this plan meets all common graduation requirements.

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or other Philosophy Ethics and Justice course