The Bachelor of Commerce in the field of Politics, Philosophy and Economics at Wits provides a broad and rigorous interdisciplinary degree that combines economics, political science, and philosophy to develop students who can think analytically across disciplines and engage with complex societal questions. Students study economics, politics, and philosophy in first year alongside general BCom subjects, then major in Economics and either Politics or Philosophy from second to third year. This degree is designed for students interested in how economic systems work, the causes of poverty and inequality, how political institutions function, and how to promote development in South Africa and on the African continent.
English Home Language or English First Additional Language: Level 5
Mathematics: Level 5
APS: 38
Policy Analyst – Researches and evaluates South African government policies across economic development, social grants, trade, and education for think tanks, the Presidency, and National Treasury.
Economist (Government) – Analyses macroeconomic trends, fiscal policy, and labour market dynamics for South African government departments including the National Treasury and South African Reserve Bank.
Diplomat / Foreign Affairs Officer – Represents South Africa’s interests in bilateral and multilateral forums through DIRCO, applying knowledge of politics, philosophy, and international economics.
Management Consultant – Advises South African businesses and government entities on strategy, policy, and organisational change, drawing on analytical and communication skills developed in the PPE degree.
Development Finance Analyst – Evaluates social and economic development projects for South African DFIs including the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA).
