How to make the most of your Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics

The Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy, and Economics (Honours) (BPPE) is one of the most diverse programs on offer at UQ's Faculty of Business, Economics and Law.

UQ PPE graduate Oliver Friendship shares some of the perks of studying the program and provides some useful tips on how to make the most of your university experience.

Choosing philosophy, politics and economics at UQ

UQ’s PPE degree is unique because of its variety, combining 3 disparate, but not unrelated, study areas. It can improve your mathematics and research abilities, written expression and critical thinking in a way that is unparalleled in any other program.

"If you’re a motivated and high-achieving student with a keen interest in the world around you, BPPE is the program for you."

Getting the most out of the UQ PPE experience

1. Go to classes in person

My best advice for all Bachelor of PPE students at UQ is to physically turn up to uni as much as you can.

One of the benefits of the UQ PPE degree – and this is especially true in the first year – is that you are part of a small cohort who all study the same courses. This allows Bachelor of PPE students to get to know and build lasting connections with like-minded people in a way that students in other programs simply cannot.

But to take advantage of this opportunity, you have to turn up to your lectures and tutorials in person.

In the age of recorded lectures, it can be tempting to skip classes and catch up on them later. But physically being present as much as possible ensures you have the best chance of thriving in your degree. I can honestly say I made the bulk of my university friends by attending lectures and tutorials.

Not only did this network of friends provide an obvious social boon to my university experience. It brought out the best in my academic work as well.

2. Join a club or society (or 4)

I recommend all new UQ students should, without exception, join their relevant faculty club or society. For BPPE students, this means the wonderful PPE Society (UQPPES) and maybe the Economics Society (UQES) as well.

These clubs and societies organise a vast array of fantastic social and academic events that will make your time at university more enjoyable and stimulating. They also provide endless opportunities to meet other students who are also studying philosophy, politics and economics.

UQ also has numerous special interest clubs that are well worth getting a membership to as well. From surfing to debating, you’ll be sure to find something that suits you.

3. Be self-motivated

The greatest difference between high school and uni I noticed is how much work you have to do without any form of supervision.

When you're studying at university, it’s on you to learn what you need to learn and do what you need to do.

This freedom and flexibility comes with obvious bonuses of course, but it’s worth keeping in mind just how self-motivated and driven you need to be to achieve the grades you want. I recommend making a study diary, never allowing yourself to get more than one week behind when learning content and starting on assignments as early as possible.