PPE is regarded as one of Oxford's premier degrees. St Hilda's has a very strong tradition in all three subjects - one that stretches back over several decades. Students come to us from many different academic (and cultural) backgrounds. St Hilda’s has a reputation for being a friendly and informal place. The academic atmosphere is demanding, of course, but at the same time it is very supportive.
We are strongly committed to supporting students to achieve their full potential, regardless of background—and this is evident in the results students achieve at examinations. Last year, over a third of our first year students achieved distinctions at Prelims, and our students regularly achieve firsts at Finals.
One of the advantages of studying PPE at St Hilda’s is that our intake is relatively large. This is beneficial because with a large peer group, there is a great deal of opportunity for co-operative studying, informal discussion and exchange of ideas. This makes for a vibrant and supportive community of students with common interests and goals.
The PPE tutors organise talks and debates and aim to integrate our undergraduate and graduate community. Our discussions spill over from tutorials to informal social events. St HIlda's students soon learn to feel comfortable to develop and express their ideas - whether in politics, philosophy, or economics. Outside of the classroom, PPE students have been active in the St Hilda’s JCR (Junior Common Room), and have served on various University committees.