The Philosophy, Politics, Economics, and Law (PPEL) major provides students with coursework from the Philosophy, Political Science, and Economics programs, in addition to specialized courses in the PPEL major that focus on the intersections of these areas. Graduates will be prepared for careers in business, legal services, communications, research, policy analysis, and education. This major is also excellent preparation for law school or graduate studies in public administration, public health policy, or business administration. Some of the job titles listed below may require an advanced degree.
Potential Career Areas:
- Policy analysis
- Advocacy
- Campaign strategy
- Media outreach
- Mediation
- International development
- Government contracting
- Budget planning
- Research
- Education
- Consulting
Sample Employers:
- Political campaigns
- Legislators
- Businesses
- Conservation organizations
- Research institutes
- Policy think tanks
- Government agencies
- Schools
- Colleges and universities
- Public affairs organizations
- Ethics boards
Sample Job Titles and National Salary Ranges:
| Job Title | Salary Range |
|
Lobbyist, Nonprofit Organization
|
$30,000 - $50,000
|
|
Middle School Social Studies Teacher
|
$35,000 - $52,000
|
|
Press Secretary
|
$40,000 - $65,000
|
|
Environmental Policy Analyst
|
$37,900 - $61,700
|
|
Political Consultant
|
$35,000 - $45,000
|
|
Ethics Investigator
|
$30,000 - $75,000
|
|
Public Employment Mediator
|
$30,600 - $55,800
|
|
Budget Coordinator
|
$44,900 - $68,200
|
|
Political Party Staffer
|
$30,000 - $150,000
|
|
Eligibility Specialist, Government Programs
|
$27,800 - $40,000
|
|
Program Officer, Foundation
|
$40,000 - $80,000
|
Sources of Information: United States Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics (2010); DISCOVER (2011); Facts on File: Ferguson’s Career Guidance Center (2011).