Overview

The Political Economy programme at Athabasca University provides a comprehensive analysis of the complex relationships between global markets, political institutions, and social structures. This four-year degree is designed to equip students with the critical thinking skills necessary to navigate the dynamics of a modern knowledge-based economy. By examining both local and international practices, learners gain a deep understanding of how policy decisions shape the contemporary world.

Why Political Economy at Athabasca University?

Athabasca University offers North America's first distance education undergraduate degree in this field, providing unparalleled flexibility for working professionals and new students alike. The curriculum is designed for adaptability, allowing learners to retool their skills for a variety of career paths in a globalised era. Students benefit from an open enrolment policy, meaning those aged 16 or older can begin their studies at any time without traditional academic barriers. Furthermore, the university supports customisable education through options for double majors or minors in diverse subjects such as Philosophy, Sociology, and Public Administration.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: CAD 1863 per credit
National fee: CAD 1863 per credit

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum covers foundational economic theories alongside advanced political analysis. Modules may include:

Microeconomics
Macroeconomics
Economic Development
Changing Global Economy
Composition
French for Beginners
Statistics
Globalization and World Politics
Theories and Approaches to Political Economy

Careers with Political Economy

Graduates are prepared for diverse roles across the public, private, and non-profit sectors. The analytical nature of the programme makes it suitable for individuals pursuing careers as policy analysts, economic consultants, or research associates. Many alumni find success in international relations, trade offices, and public affairs consultancy. Additionally, the degree provides a strong foundation for roles in community development, sustainability advisory, and legislative assistance, as well as providing the necessary academic background for entry into various graduate-level programmes.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Globalization and World Politics

Theories and Approaches to Political Economy

Canada and the Global Political Economy

Global Development Strategies

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

You can apply for and start this programme anytime.

More details

Next start: monthly. There are no application deadlines for most undergraduate programs.

Language

English

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Credits

120 alternative credits

Delivered

Online

Campus Location

Athabasca, Canada

Disciplines

Economics Political Science View 5 other Bachelors in Political Science in Canada

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

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Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

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AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

There are no formal admission requirements for either the 3-year or 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.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

55890 CAD / year

≈ 55890 CAD / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

55890 CAD / year

≈ 55890 CAD / year

Funding

In order for us to give you accurate scholarship information, we ask that you please confirm a few details and create an account with us.

Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Political Economy.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic Applies to you

Funding

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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