The Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy, and Economics (BPPE) at the University of Sydney attracts students who are curious about the world and driven to make a difference.
Combining four influential disciplines—politics, philosophy, economics, and political economy—the degree equips students with the tools to think critically, act ethically and lead with confidence in complex environments. We recently caught up with two first-year students, Daniel Zou and James Trent, to hear about their experience in the program so far.
First-year Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy, and Economics (BPPE) student, Daniel Zou.
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LinkDaniel Zou
Daniel Zou was drawn to BPPE because it aligned with who he wants to become. "In a nutshell BPPE felt deeply aligned with my core values and the person I wish to become- someone who can think rigorously, act ethically, and engage thoughtfully with the world."
Each discipline plays a key role in his learning. "Economics sharpens my analytical thinking, philosophy nurtures creativity and reflection, and politics and political economy give me a lens to understand the logic, forces and motivations behind global decision-making."
A highlight for Daniel has been the diversity of ideas. "No two weeks feel the same. I might go from analysing capital growth theory to exploring existentialism or democratic legitimacy. That kind of intellectual variety is what I find most energising."
He says the program has changed not just what he thinks about, but how he thinks. "BPPE has taught me to approach current issues not as isolated headlines but as outcomes of deeper systems of institutional design, historical context, economic incentives, and ethical trade-offs."
Daniel is exploring a career at the intersection of business strategy, advisory, and investment. As co-founder of the PPE Society, a student-led academic and social society that supports students enrolled in the BPPE, he’s also empowering students by connecting them with industry. "I look forward to connecting our cohort with a range of leaders across various industries in the aim to rid limiting beliefs by demonstrating the breadth of careers BPPE enables us to enter."
BPPE has taught me to approach current issues not as isolated headlines but as outcomes of deeper systems of institutional design, historical context, economic incentives, and ethical trade-offs.
Daniel Zou, first-year Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy, and Economics student
James Trent
The BPPE degree was a natural choice for James Trent. "I have always had a great passion for philosophy and was also interested in expanding this to politics and economics," he says. "Philosophy is an interesting subject because it seeks to uncover profound truths. It has been great to have the opportunity to study the intersections of these disciplines in a university setting."
James values the interactive learning style, particularly in tutorials. "I enjoy the discussions in my tutorials as I find it valuable to encounter and explore different ideas. The lecturers have been engaging, and I’ve been impressed with their insights."
He says the program has transformed how he views the world. "The program has encouraged me to reframe my understanding of current issues. Instead of studying them in relation to a single narrow discipline, I recognise the multifaceted nature of any given issue."
James hopes to work in foreign affairs or public policy. "The understanding reached through the BPPE degree will be essential for me to maintain a balanced perspective on present issues."
James is also active in the PPE Society. "Our goal is to build a strong community among PPE students encouraging cohesion learning and mutual support.”
Initially, the society aims to focus on social events and discussions to help students connect as a cohort. Looking ahead, they plan to host intellectual debates, guest speaker sessions on key topics, and offer career development opportunities. Everyone is welcome to join and get involved!
First-year Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy, and Economics (BPPE) student, James Trent.
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