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Bachelor of Arts Major in Political Economy

At a glance

  • Credential: degree
  • Credits: 120
  • Next start: monthly

Dive into the interconnected world of politics, society, and economics with AU's online Political Economy program.

  • 34

    Average age

  • 89%

    Employment rate

  • $65k

    Median income

  • 95%

    Student satisfaction

Source: 2023 AU institutional data and 2022 Graduate Outcomes Survey (GOS)

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About Bachelor of Arts Major in Political Economy

This program equips you with the skills and insights to navigate complex 21st-century challenges, from understanding global political and economic issues to grasping the dynamics of our ever-changing knowledge-based society. Choose your focus—either global or Canadian political economy—and prepare yourself for a lifetime of learning and diverse career opportunities.

You will develop your knowledge of:

  • global political and economic issues
  • the dynamics and needs of a global, knowledge-based society and marketplace
  • local and global political and economic practices, policies, and institutions

You can focus your studies in either the global political economy or Canadian political economy.

This program is North America's first distance education undergraduate degree program in political economy.

Admission requirements

There are no formal admission requirements for the 4-year program. All you need is to be 16 or older. You can enrol anytime and start right away, regardless of your previous education.

Program details

Overview

Whether you're just starting out or are a seasoned professional, Athabasca University's political economy program offers a rich educational journey that analyzes Canada and the world's complex political and economic landscapes. Designed for adaptability in today's globalized era, the program not only deepens your understanding of diverse polities and economies but also provides the retooling skills needed to thrive in a variety of career paths.

Routes and options

The Bachelor of Arts, Political Economy Major is an online, 4-year degree program. There are no set start dates—you can enrol at any time and register for courses right away.

Bachelor of Arts, Political Economy Major (4-year online degree)

  • A 4-year degree fully prepares students for most graduate programs.
  • The 4-year BA program allows you to pursue either a double major or a minor.
    • Double majors must meet the requirements for both majors, which may restrict course selection or require additional credits above the 120 required for the BA.
    • You should talk to an academic advisor about your program and courses if you’re considering a double major.
    • To earn a minor you must complete 30 credits in that subject area.
  • List of minors:
    • Anthropology
    • Canadian Studies
    • English
    • French
    • Global Studies
    • History
    • Humanities
    • Inclusive Education
    • Labour Studies
    • Philosophy
    • Political Science
    • Psychology
    • Public Administration
    • Sociology
    • Women's and Gender Studies
Note: AU does not offer an Honours BA.

Completion times

Finish this program in as little as 4 years of full-time study, or work at your own pace and take as long as you need. There is no time limit for completion. The program may be completed faster if transfer credit is applied toward your degree.

How to apply

You can apply to AU online, anytime. Once you’ve completed the online application form and paid the one-time general application fee (and transfer credit evaluation fee, if applicable), you’re officially an AU student and can start registering in courses.

How to enrol in an undergraduate program

Transfer and advanced credit

If you have previous post-secondary education or significant life and work experience that relates to this program, you may be eligible for transfer credit or Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR). This could mean fewer courses to get your AU degree.

If you transfer credit, you must complete a minimum of 30 credits at AU.

Learn about transfer and advanced credit at AU

Request and send your transcripts if you want us to consider your previous post-secondary education for transfer credit.

Learn more about MyCreds

Resources and links

Additional information that you need to know about AU and this program.


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