Understand the world. Prepare to shape its future.

Interested in politics, government, public policy, or the ideas shaping our world? CUW's Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) explores political science through the lenses of philosophy and economics, helping you understand complex issues, evaluate competing perspectives, and communicate your ideas with confidence.

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Program Overview

What is a philosophy, politics, and economics major?

The PPE major brings together three disciplines to grow your understanding of ideas, institutions, and systems that shape society.

Explore how philosophical ideas influence political institutions, how economic systems affect everyday life, and how ethical principles inform individual and collective decisions.

Why study philosophy, politics, and economics at CUW?

Grounded in a Christian worldview that emphasizes human dignity, ethical responsibility, and service to others, CUW's PPE program encourages you to consider not only how decisions are made, but also their values, consequences, and impact on society.

Explore topics such as:

  • American government and political institutions: Analyze how political systems operate, institutions make decisions, and how government shapes public life.
  • Public policy: Examine how governments respond to social, economic, and civic challenges.
  • Political philosophy and ethics: Explore the ideals of justice, freedom, citizenship, leadership, and the responsibilities of government.
  • Economics and public affairs: Analyze how markets, incentives, and economic policies influence communities and public decisions.
  • Research, writing, and argumentation: Evaluate evidence, compare perspectives, and build well-supported arguments about complex issues.

Accelerated graduate and law school pathways:

4+1 bachelor's + MBA

Pair your bachelor's degree in PPE with a Master of Business Administration through CUW's MBA Fast Track. Students can begin graduate-level business coursework while completing their bachelor's degree, creating an accelerated pathway to advanced business knowledge and leadership opportunities.

Explore the MBA Fast Track.

4+1 bachelor's + MS in Leadership and Organizational Change

Combine your PPE education with graduate study in leadership and organizational change. Build on your understanding of economics and human behavior as you prepare to help organizations navigate challenges, change, and pursue strategic goals.

Explore the MS in Leadership and Organizational Change.

3+3 Pre-Law Pathway

Through CUW's partnership with Marquette University Law School, students can pursue an accelerated pathway to a bachelor's degree and Juris Doctor in six years. The PPE program's emphasis on political institutions, ethical reasoning, research, and argumentation provides a relevant foundation for students interested in legal study.

Explore the 3+3 Pre-Law Pathway.

What to Expect

Where can a PPE degree take you?

A degree in philosophy, politics, and economics will prepare you for service in a variety of vocations.

  • Law: Build a foundation for law school and related careers through the study of logic, ethics, political ideologies, research, writing, and argumentation.
  • Consulting: Assist organizations in understanding challenges, evaluating options, and making strategic decisions.
  • Finance: Explore opportunities in financial services, economic research, investment and analysis, and business planning.
  • Government, public service, and non-profit organizations: Contribute to public policy, government administration, community development, advocacy, or nonprofit leadership.
  • Technology and public policy: Explore the intersection of technology, society, economics, and public policy, including the ethical implications of innovation.
  • National security and foreign policy: Interested in a career in national security, intelligence, diplomacy, or international affairs? Through lectures, conferences, and discussions with industry and government experts, CUW's National Security and Space Center enables PPE students to analyze global challenges while considering ethical responsibility.

Experience government and public policy in Washington, D.C.

Take your interest in political science beyond the classroom through the Lutheran College Washington Semester. This 14-week study-away program in Washington, D.C. and Arlington, Virginia, combines internship experience with academic coursework and opportunities to visit Capitol Hill, museums, historical sites, and other Washington-area institutions.

Students can earn 12 to 14 semester credits while gaining practical experience and developing professional connections.

Engage with today's leading thinkers

Join us for one of our Philosophy, Politics, and Economics on the Bluff events hosted by the Concordia Free Enterprise Center. This series hosts nationally known thought leaders that attract large audiences of students, faculty, staff, and community members. Past speakers include John Sossel, Karl Rove, Art Laffer, Molly Hemmingway, and former Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker.

Scott Walker
Steve Forbes
Yeonmi Park

 

Previous Speakers

Testimonial

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