Great Books and Ideas (GBI)

PPEL stands for Philosophy, Politics, Economics and Law. It is an multidisciplinary Bachelor of Arts program that examines the intersection of these key fields, offering students a comprehensive understanding of how these disciplines interact and influence societal issues. The program also develops skills that are transferable and useful for many different careers. The program will offer both a major and minor.

Great Books and Ideas (GBI) is a multidisciplinary Bachelor of Arts program at the Hamilton Center. It focuses on exploring seminal texts and fundamental ideas that have shaped Western civilization, preparing students for critical analysis, rigorous debate and effective communication. GBI’s multidisciplinary classes will deal with history, politics, philosophy, art, literature, classics and more. This program will offer both a major and a minor.

PPEL prepares students to address the biggest challenges facing governments, businesses, and communities around the world today. These problems are not only political, or economic, or legal; they are multi-faceted, with intersecting moral, political, economic, and legal considerations. To understand these problems, students’ training must go beyond the boundaries of any single traditional academic discipline. Through the coursework in the PPEL program, students will acquire foundational analytical and quantitative skills; they will learn to analyze problems holistically by integrating multiple disciplinary perspectives; and they will learn to apply their new skills and knowledge to real world problems through case studies and a capstone senior research project.

Great Books & Ideas (GBI) allows students interested in the humanities to confront the deepest questions about human existence thought a multidisciplinary program. It is premised on the idea that ‘all branches of knowledge are connected together’ and it offers students the chance to get to know ‘the best which has been said and thought in the world’. GBI majors will learn through discussion-based seminars focused on the great books which have stood the test of time. Along the way students will develop the ability to write and speak clearly, cleanly and persuasively.

The curriculum includes:

• Core courses in foundational texts and ideas of Western civilization.
• Specialized seminars and tutorials exploring political, historical, philosophical and literary traditions.
• Opportunities for in-depth research and thesis writing under faculty guidance.
• Elective courses that allow for personalized academic exploration.

Throughout your degree: 

• Engage in lively seminars, discussion and debates with peers and faculty.
• Participate in research projects, internships and study abroad programs
• Access career development resources and network opportunities tailored to your degree. 

At graduation you can expect:

• Recognition of your academic achievements and completion of rigorous coursework.
• Preparation to enter diverse career fields or pursue advanced studies
• Continued support from the Hamilton Center community and alumni network.  

Graduates with a degree in PPEL often pursue careers in

• Government and public policy
• Law and legal professions
• Business and finance
• Nonprofit organizations and advocacy
• Higher education and research

Graduates with a degree in Great Books and Ideas are well-prepared for careers in:

• Education and teaching
• Law and legal professions
• Publishing and media
• Cultural institutions and museums
• Consulting and communication
• Business and finance
• Graduate study in various disciplines

To apply to the Hamilton Center programs, you must first be admitted to the University of Florida. Visit the University of Florida admissions website and complete the online application for next steps.

The low student-to-faculty ratio at the Hamilton Center ensures personalized attention and mentorship opportunities, fostering a supportive academic environment conducive to intellectual growth and development.

For more information about the Hamilton Center curriculum, programs, admission process, and student life, contact our academic advisors to schedule an informational meeting.