Explore the foundations of justice, governance, and ethical decision-making! The Philosophy, Politics and Law (PPL) major at the University of Lethbridge is a unique interdisciplinary program that prepares students to tackle the complex challenges of civic life with a deep understanding of political systems, philosophical thought and legal frameworks.

What sets this program apart is its grounding in three foundational perspectives — philosophy, political science and Indigenous knowledge systems — reflecting ULethbridge’s commitment to liberal education and social justice. Students then tailor their degree through one of four customizable streams: environment, health, business and economics, or social justice, creating a learning environment rooted in academic excellence, critical inquiry and collaboration.

Through cohort-based learning and a final capstone project, PPL students graduate ready to make meaningful contributions in government, law, advocacy, policy and beyond.

Program highlights

• Interdisciplinary core: Develop a strong foundation in philosophical analysis, political systems and Indigenous governance.
• Customizable learning: Choose from four specialized streams to match your interests and career goals.
• Hands-on capstone: Tackle real-world issues from multiple perspectives in a final project course.
• Focus on Indigenous perspectives: Ground your education in diverse worldviews essential to Canadian society and law.

Streams of specialization

• Business and Economics
• Environment
• Health
• Social Justice

Each stream allows students to explore issues like sustainable governance, public health ethics, social equity or economic policy in greater depth.

Minors | Adding a minor to your degree is a great way to explore academic interests beyond your major. A minor is a set of courses comprising a secondary focus of interest generally not related to your major. A minor may be required or optional.

Honours thesis | If your GPA is high enough in your fourth year, you can opt to complete an undergraduate thesis course. This is an excellent opportunity for you to earn an “Honours Thesis” designation on your degree.

Experience learning | ULethbridge offers a number of experiential learning opportunities, including co-operative education, international exchanges, independent and applied studies, and volunteer opportunities. ULethbridge is the only university in Alberta to offer co-operative education to all majors in the arts and sciences, at both the undergrad and graduate levels. Transfer students can head out on their first work term before ever setting foot on campus! For example, many transfer students complete a summer work term before starting classes in September.

Skills acquired | Students enrolled in the Philosophy, Politics and Law (PPL) major at the University of Lethbridge will gain a rich blend of practical, analytical, and ethical skills highly transferable to various professional and academic pathways. Here are the key skills you can expect to develop:

• Critical thinking & ethical reasoning
• Interdisciplinary knowledge integration
• Communication and argumentation
• Collaboration
• Civic engagement
• Applied research
• Project management
• Policy analysis
• Legal literacy