Philosophy & Economics (P&E)

The MA programme in Philosophy & Economics is targeted at students with an interest in obtaining advanced analytical and quantitative training as a foundation for pursuing research-based careers in academia, public service, and business. In designing the degree, we had economists and philosophers in mind (as well as those with a political science or business and management studies background) who are intent on sharpening their abilities in normative reflection, deepening their knowledge of subjects they have pursued during their Bachelor’s studies, and broadening and enhancing their methodological skills in key areas relevant to both disciplines. A modern degree for modern challenges We see both economics and philosophy and their integration as methods for analysing allocation, distributive, and institutional mechanisms in a world that is in need of new global governance structures. Chief among these are the following pressing foundational and practical questions: What are the dimensions of equality? Does globalisation threaten social solidarity? How should we regulate migration flows? Is the international organisation of labour necessary for achieving social justice? What are the economic and moral challenges that regional trade agreements create for the WTO? What is a fair allocation of voting power in the EU? What is the best way to organise deliberation? Who bears responsibility for climate change? Should executive salaries and bonuses be capped? How do we encourage corporate social responsibility? The Bayreuth P&E programme is the advanced degree for the national and international public policy analyst, the public servant, and the concerned business professional. Our MA programme is for the serious intellectual who wants a rigorous training that will cut across disciplines and who wants to innovate and engage with the world. It is an advanced training in the concepts and methods of social and economic justice and is a real alternative to the standard types of Master's programmes in economics, philosophy, political science, or business and management studies. Clarity and individuality The P&E Master's programme has a very clear structure with a set of core courses in both disciplines, a well-defined integrative philosophy & economics seminar, and a wide range of electives allowing our students to specialise according to individual interests and aptitude. Our programme will provide you with solid foundations and the opportunity to carve out your own distinctive academic and professional profile. Research-led teaching The mission of research-led teaching is taken seriously in the P&E programme. Courses are taught by those whose research is close to the topic. P&E faculty bring their own research to the seminar room and explore novel ideas and methods with their students in an intensive but relaxed way.