Philosophy, Politics and Economics

Born over a hundred years ago at Oxford University, Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) is an interdisciplinary field of inquiry designed with the intellectual tools necessary to understand the big ideas behind our most important social questions.

Philosophy, Politics and Economics at USD helps students to think critically about those questions, and thus prepares them well for careers in a variety of fields such as law, public policy, journalism, academia and government.

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What's happening in Philosophy, Politics and Economics

Students discuss the Declaration of Independence

A Conversation 250 Years in the Making

March 6, 2026

Fifteen students from five Southern California universities gathered at USD to discuss the Declaration of Independence on its 250th anniversary.

Doors Opened: How USD’s PPE Program Amplified Opportunities for Damiera Cruz

October 6, 2025

The University of San Diego’s Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) program is built around close mentorship, rigorous discussion and real chances to test ideas beyond the classroom. Recent graduate Damiera Cruz ’25 exemplified that approach, earning spots in several competitive, discussion-driven programs that sharpened her scholarship and broadened her network. According to Damiera, “PPE at USD provided me with the framework to understand society’s driving factors and created opportunities that helped me personally and professionally.”

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What's happening in Philosophy, Politics and Economics

A Conversation 250 Years in the Making

Doors Opened: How USD’s PPE Program Amplified Opportunities for Damiera Cruz

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