PPE Summer Seminar
Engage With the Study
of Politics, Philosophy, and Economics
A five-day intellectual experience like no other
The PPE Summer Seminar is an in-person event designed exclusively to give graduate and law students—and students planning to attend graduate or law school—the opportunity to explore the political, philosophical, and economic foundations of a free society, and key elements of PPE in the classical liberal tradition in a non-partisan environment.
The event lasts for five days at a university campus. Students hear from leading scholars and experts. Meals and accommodations are provided by the ILS.
Apply for this exceptional opportunity
The PPE Summer Seminar itinerary includes
Lectures
Discussion Groups
Student Presentations
The PPE Summer Seminar is for
Graduate students, law students, and final year undergraduates planning to attend law or grad school.
Students who want to increase their interdisciplinary knowledge.
Students interested in exploring the PPE tradition.
Students can expect
A five day, in-person intellectual experience
Lectures from leading scholars and experts
Meals and accomodations provided by the ILS
PPE Summer Seminar 2026 faculty includes
Geoff Sigalet
UBC Okanagan
Brad Epperly
UBC Okanagan
Andrew Irvine
UBC Okanagan
Emily Skarbek
Brown University
Peter Jaworski
Georgetown University
Casey Pender
Mount Allison
PPE Summer Seminar FAQ
What is a typical day at the PPE summer seminar like?
A typical day might include two lectures in the morning, followed by an afternoon discussion group or student research presentation. There will often be some free time in the late afternoon, followed by dinner and informal social time.
What kind of students are you looking for?
You should be a current post-secondary student in either graduate school or law school. We will also consider applications from final year undergraduates who plan to attend graduate or law school. While preference will be given to students studying politics, philosophy, economics, or law we will consider applicants from any field.
I already graduated. Can I still apply?
If you have completed your undergraduate degree and are on a break before beginning law or grad school, you are welcome to apply.
I am a mature and/or part-time student. Can I still apply?
We will consider your application, but will give preference to traditional students.
I am not Canadian and/or am not studying in Canada. Can I still apply?
Yes! International students studying in Canada or students from from other parts of the world are welcome to apply. Note that we can provide a letter confirming your acceptance to the seminar to include in your visa application—but we can not provide any advice on any immigration question.
I am not a classical liberal, should I still apply?
Yes! We select participants with a broad range of backgrounds. We’re looking for people with a variety of beliefs and perspectives to help enrich the conversation.
I want to apply, but I can't attend the whole week. Is that okay?
You must be able to attend the entire week to participate.
I can attend the whole week, but not some sessions. Is that okay?
We expect students to attend all elements of the seminar.
I want to apply, but I’m not sure of my schedule for the summer yet. What should I do?
We encourage you to still apply. If you are accepted, but will no longer be able to attend due to schedule changes or other unexpected events. That’s fine—but, we do ask that you notify us immediately if anything happens that will prevent you from attending.
Is there a cost to attend?
No. There is no registration fee and participants will be provided with accommodations and most meals. Participants are, however, responsible for arranging and paying for their own transportation to and from Kelowna.
Is there funding to assist with travel to Kelowna?
The ILS does not provide travel assistance, you may want to ask about travel support from your university.
