Philosophy and Economics with Study Abroad

Philosophy and economics with study abroad is a degree that combines two historically interlinked disciplines and adds an international dimension that enriches both. Economics developed from political economy, which was itself a branch of moral philosophy, and the questions that animated the classical economists, about value, distribution, welfare and the relationship between individual interest and collective outcomes, are still live philosophical questions that economic theory has not fully resolved. Studying philosophy alongside economics means you can engage with those foundational questions while also developing the technical rigour that modern economics demands.

At the University of Bristol, this four-year full-time programme, which includes a foundation year and an additional year studying at an overseas university, develops a breadth of skills across both disciplines. The economics component is technically rigorous, building strong analytical foundations in microeconomics, macroeconomics, mathematics, statistics and econometrics. The philosophy component develops your capacity for conceptual analysis, logical argumentation and critical engagement with questions in ethics, epistemology, metaphysics and the philosophy of science.

The year abroad gives you the opportunity to study at a partner university in a different country, deepening both your academic and personal perspective through sustained engagement with a different educational environment and culture.

A typical entry tariff of 168 points reflects the combination of analytical rigour and academic preparation the programme demands, and the foundation year makes it accessible to students who need additional preparation.

Graduates from this programme bring a combination of economic analysis and philosophical reasoning that is genuinely valued in policy, consulting, finance, law, the civil service, international organisations and academia. The year abroad strengthens language skills and international awareness, making graduates particularly competitive for roles in globally oriented organisations. Postgraduate study in economics, philosophy, political economy or public policy is a natural next step for those who wish to specialise.